For my next blog I thought I should write a bit on my home town, Hermanus. Considered to be the heart of the Cape Whale Coast, Hermanus has a lot to offer. And you don’t have to pay an arm and a leg to enjoy the splendour of this town. So I thought I’d write about what to do if you’re on a tight budget.
- The beaches
Beaches are totally free and a must when visiting Hermanus. All the way from Onrus beach to Grotto, the coast is lined with small beaches to relax and soak up the sun on. Grotto beach is a blue flag beach and very popular among tourists and locals alike. In season you may have to pay for parking here, so rather try Voelklip beach or any of the other along the way.
Fernkloof offer hiking trails for all levels of experience. From and easy 45 minute walk up to the waterfall to a bit more challenging trails, Fernkloof offers a lot. You can even hike up to Galpin hut and stay over night. (booking is essential). For mountain bikers, there’s an amazing trail to try out. If you fancy a swim a short 30 minute hike will take you up to the first of the 3 dams in the reserve.
3. Rotary Way
For the best views over town, this is the place to be. Take a short drive up Rotary Way where you will reach the look out point. If it’s your first time in Hermanus this should be your first stop. This will help you to get a sense for the layout of the town and did I mention the view?
4. The wine
Hermanus’s Hemel and Aarde Valley offers world-class wines and wineries. This is and absolute must. Most wineries do charge a tasting fee, but if you plan your trip right you could get more than you bargained for. Look out for events like Domaine Des Dieux‘s bottomless bubbly events on the last Friday of the month. Or visit Hermanuspietersfontein’s container lounge for a tasting from R40. For more information on other wine farms in the are visit Hermanus Wines.
5. The Cliff path
Yes our cliff path is very famous. Why? Apart from it being well maintained and the spectacular views, there’s some art on the paths to be spotted too. As part of the tourism boards new initiative to draw more people to Hermanus during their low season, they have established the Fynarts Festival, and with this festival came some spectacular sculptures. The sculptures change every year with the start of the festival.
6. First Fridays
The first Friday of every month, eleven art galleries in the centre of town open their doors from 5pm – 8pm. Stroll through the galleries and enjoy a glass of wine while you take in the fabulous local art on display. Unlike other towns, it’s free entry to the galleries.
Lastly a tip if you’re get a bit ‘hangry’ like me and need food before you loose it over something totally ridiculous. The fast food shops are not always the cheapest option. There are plenty of local restaurants and pubs that offer better value for money than some fast food franchises.
Look forward to seeing you in Hermanus soon. Leave a comment or contact me if you need anymore advise. Feedback welcome.
Happy travels
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