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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Hermanus

Updated: Oct 19, 2022

If you're looking for a beautiful and charming coastal town to visit in South Africa, look no further than Hermanus. This town is located in the Western Cape and is known for its spectacular ocean views.

Tidal Pool in Hermanus, Ficks Restaurant
Hermanus Tidal Pool and Ficks Restaurant. Photo Craig Howes

Where is Hermanus?

Hermanus is located in the Overberg region and is about 120km or a 1.5-hour drive from Cape Town.


There are plenty of things to do in Hermanus, from whale watching to hiking and enjoying the local restaurants and bars. Here's your ultimate travel guide to Hermanus!


What is Hermanus known for?

Hermanus is a small town located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is known for its Whale Coast, which offers spectacular views of whales from June to November each year.

Creation Wine Estate- Hermanus
Creation Wine Estate- Hermanus

The town also boasts a number of excellent

Hermanus is a popular weekend getaway for locals and tourists alike

Its proximity to the famous wine region of Stellenbosch makes it an ideal base for exploring the area's many wineries and hotels. Whether you're looking for an action-packed vacation or a relaxing retreat, Hermanus has something to offer everyone.


What to do in Hermanus

  • Whale Watching

  • Visit Hemel-en-Aarde (Heaven and Earth) Wine Estates and Wineries

  • Hermanus Cliff Path Hiking Trails

  • Paragliding

  • Grotto Beach

  • Hermanus Golf Club

  • Ficks Restaurant and Tidal Pool

  • Bientang's Cave Restaurant & Wine Bar


Best 5-Star (Luxury) Hotels in Hermanus

Best Hermanus B&B's and Guest Houses

Best Restaurants Hermanus

If you're looking for a good meal in Hermanus, you'll have plenty of options.

Local favourites like the Fishermans Cottage and Cafe 1904 offer seafood and local dishes, while places like The Gallery Cafe and Deli and Creation Wines serve up fine dining. For something a little different, try the Ficks restaurant for sundowners, or Fabio's Authentic Ristorante Italiano which offers a fusion of Italian and South African cuisine (Try the Seafood Pasta).


No matter your taste, you're sure to find a great place to eat in Hermanus.

Here are some of Our Favourite Hermanus Places to Eat:

(Full Article Coming Soon)

  • Fisherman's Cottage

  • Cafe 1904

  • The Gallery Cafe and Deli

  • Creation Wines

  • Ficks Restaurant

  • Fabio's Authentic Ristorante Italiano

  • Bientang's Cave Restaurant & Wine Bar

  • The Pear Tree

  • Char'd Grill & Wine Bar

  • The Wine Glass Hermanus

Best Coffee Shop and Breakfast in Hermanus

Tulip Coffee Roasters, they have amazing fresh pastries and great coffee


How Far is Hermanus From Cape Town

Hermanus is located in the Overberg region and is about a 1.5-hour drive from Cape Town.

There are 2 main routes to get to Hermanus. The Quick Route and the Scenic Route.

  1. The Quick Route to Hermanus is Straight on the N2 then take the Hermanus Turnoff. (1.5 Hours)

  2. Scenic Route to Hermanus is the coastal route through Gordons Bay, Rooi-Els, Bettys Bay, Kleinmond and onto Hermanus. Clarence Drive is one of the best drives in the world. This should take about 3 hours if you stop for lunch. There is also a Penguin colony along the way and a good chance of seeing whales. Distance 160km or 100 miles.

Clarence Drive- Scenic Route to Hermanus, just outside of Gordons Bay
Clarence Drive- Scenic Route to Hermanus. Photo by Craig Howes


I hope you enjoyed the article, please feel free to add in your recommendations in the comments.

Article by Craig Howes



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