Beautiful ocean and rocky coast landscape in Hermanus, South Africa

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Hermanus

Hermanus is generally considered the best land-based whale-watching destination in the world. From June to December, the bay becomes the swimming grounds for a large number of southern right whales. So what might have otherwise just been a small fishing village is today a large, bustling town with an excellent range of accommodation, restaurants and shops.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • Creation

    Creation

    Hermanus

    Best known for its various wine-pairing options, which include a superb brunch pairing (R495) as well as tea pairings (R435) and even a juice pairing for…

  • Old Harbour

    Old Harbour

    Hermanus

    The harbour clings to the cliffs in front of the town centre and is the hub of Hermanus. You'll find three museums here: the Old Harbour Museum, Whale…

  • Fernkloof Nature Reserve

    Fernkloof Nature Reserve

    Hermanus

    This 15-sq-km reserve is wonderful if you’re interested in fynbos (literally 'fine bush' – shrubby plants with thin leaves). There’s a 60km network of…

  • Old Harbour Museum

    Old Harbour Museum

    Hermanus

    This museum doesn’t have a lot going for it, but outside there’s a display of old fishing boats and the admission fee includes entrance to the more…

  • Photographic Museum

    Photographic Museum

    Hermanus

    There's a mildly interesting collection of photos from the Hermanus of yore at this small museum. The admission fee is included in the ticket for the Old…

  • Whale House Museum

    Whale House Museum

    Hermanus

    There's lots of info on whales, including daily audiovisual shows. The admission fee is included in the ticket for the Old Harbour Museum and the…

  • Newton Johnson

    Newton Johnson

    Hermanus

    As with other wineries in the region, the pinot noir really shines here. The real star, though, is the superb restaurant (mains R150 to R200), which…

  • Bouchard Finlayson

    Bouchard Finlayson

    Hermanus

    This picturesque winery is best known for its superlative pinot noir. As well as wine tasting, there are gentle walks through fynbos vegetation on the…

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