Visiting Hermanus this weekend and you are not sure what to do? Here you will find a little history and loads of activities and things to do over weekends and Holidays. This little fisherman’s town is in the Southern region of South Africa. This town is very famous for whale watching and it’s beautiful nature reserves. We answer general questions and give you more information about this little town. Let take a look about Everything you need to know and Information for the Hermanus Weekender.
Where is Hermanus
Located in the Western Cape South Africa close to Cape Agulhas the most Southern Part of Africa. It is about an Hour and a half drive from Cape Town (The Mother City of South Africa) and ther is enough indoor and outdoor activites to have a great holiday.
How old is Hermanus
The Town has a rich history dating back to the early 1800’s. Founded by Hermanus Pietersfontein that used to travel from Caledon (about 32km away) to feed his cattle and sheep with fodder growing in the area.
Where did the name come from?
Originaly Hermanus was called Hermanus Pieter Fontein. The name was shortened to in 1902 by the local mayor after receiving many complaints that the name was too long.
How many people live in Hermanus
Hermanus has a popuation of 47 000 people according to last census in 2011
46,856 Population [2011] – Census
42.57 km² Area
1,101/km² Population Density [2011]
4.5% Annual Population Change [2001 → 2011]
What is Hermanus famous for
Hermanus is a very popular destination for local and international tourist. This town and surroundings is most famous for whale watching, shark diving and world class wine estates. There are more than 70 restaurants and coffee shop and many overlook the Walker Bay Ocean where you can enjoy a meal while watching the playful whales in the ocean.
What type of wheater will you find
Hermanus is classified as having a warm-summer Mediterranean climate (Köppen). It receives roughly 520 mm of rain per annum, the majority of which falls during the winter months of June to August in the form of frontal precipitation. Average midday temperatures range from 25 °C in February to 16 °C in July.
What can you do over Holidays and Weekends
This little town has so much to offer over holidays and weekends. You can visit close-by towns to even further your activities and adventures.
Among the many things to do in Hermanus over weekends here is a short list
- Whale Watching
- Wine Tasting
- Zip Line
- Visit Markets
- Walk the Ciff Paths
- Horse Riding
- Quad Biking
- Fishing
- Fishing Trips
- Whale Whatcing Trips
- Bird Watcing
Please read our paragraphs on indoor, outdoor and water activities in Overberg
Is there a Shopping Mall
When it comes to shopping Hermanus has got you covered. There are many shops and malls. The biggest mall will be the Whale Coast Mall just outside the town. Then there is the Victorian Square Mall where you can visit excentric shops that sells art and jewelery. We also have smaller malls like the Gateway Center and the Checkers Mall.
Where to watch a movie
There is a movie house in the Whale Coast Mall. There is also a kiddy section and you can buy snacks at the movie theatre. This theatre offers the latest block buster movies and you can also watch and live performances.
Is Hermanus Safe to Live in?
The Town is considered a safe tourist destination and usually trouble free, however petty crime does exist. Visitors are advised to take certain basic safety precautions for themselves as well as for their personal belongings: Don’t walk alone at night or along the cliff path after dark.
In a nutshell Overberg is far safer than any of the major cities. However, there have been reports of tourists being robbed on the cliff path and even on the contour path. So always make sure that you do not travle alone at night.
Activities
Water Sport Activities
Famous for Kayaking tours close to the Whales and Fishing Kayaks. There are many watersport acitivities that you can participate in.
- Whale Watching
- Shark Cage Diving
- Sea Kayaking
- Sailing
- Stand Up Paddle Boarding
- Fishing and Fishing Carters
Make sure that when you do outside activities that you always have water, sunblock and off-course a GoPro or a decent camera.
Please read the full article about watersports – read article
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor things to do – Hermanus offer great outdoor activities for the young and old. There is horse riding and hiking trails along the seaside paths and montuains, fishing for all ages and and adventure activities such as boat cruises, quad-biking and ziplining. We have put together a breakdown of the the top Things to do – Outdoors
Before we start remember to always take water, sunblock, and a cap with you when you are outdoors in the South African sun.
Here is a short list of outdoor activites that you can enjoy in Walker Bay
- MTB in serveral areas
- Wine Tasting
- Cliff Path Walks along the Ocean
- Horse Riding
- Quad Biking
- Fishing
- Boat Cruises
Read the full article about Outdoor Activities – Click Here
Whale Watching
Although Whale Watching is seasonal event we have to add it to this article as Whale Watching is one of the most popular reasons why local and international visitors comes to visit. Whales come to Walker Bay to calf and protect their young before heading off to the cold Artic waters.
For more information on Whale Whatching you can reach out to Hermanus Whale Cruises or Southern Right Carters to find out when are the best times to see the Southern Right or the Humb Back Whales
Can you do Shark Diving in Hermanus?
There is no shark diving in Hermanus itself however traveling to Gansbaai wich is rated one of the top shark diving spots in the world is only a 40 min drive if you travel by car. There is a lot of Shark Diving agencies in the area and they can also arrange a shuttle for you.
Is there horse riding in Hermanus?
There are many places where you can enjoy a horse ride or even go for classes just outside town. You can read our full article about horse riding by clicking here
Is there a High School
Yes, Hermanus High School is a co-educational, dual-medium (English and Afrikaans) school with an educational ethos based upon sound Christian values. If one is to read through the mission statement and aims of the school it will become apparent that the School believes that a true education extends well beyond the classroom.
Is there a Primary School in Hermanus?
Hermanus do have a Primary School and they offer sports and after school activities
The first school was founded in 1868 and was known as “St. Peter’s Church”. The first teacher was Mr Soph or Soff. It was later known as the “Anglican Church School” and Mr W.H. Paterson was the appointed headmaster. In 1884 Reverend Van Zyl founded the Dutch Reformed Church School. The first teachers were Soph, Telet, Mcklene and Knoebel. In 1897 the St. Peter’s Mission School and the Dutch Reformed Church School united to form the “Public School”. Mr. S. G. Du Toit was the first headmaster. Classes were conducted in the Dutch Reformed Church Hall.
Does Hermanus have a Radio Station?
Hermanus residents are proud of their very own radio station. Whale Coast FM is a community radio station located in Hermanus, Western Cape. The station broadcasts to Hermanus using the frequency 96.0 FM to the Overstrand region on the frequency 91.4 FM.
What about Hotels and Guesthouses
You will find many hotels, self accommodation and guest houses in Hermanus. You need to make bookings in advance during the high seasons and whale festival. Hotels like The Windsor and The marine has been in Hermanus for years and both have immaculate and breath taking sea views.
To find accommodation we have put together a list of hotels, guesthouses and self – accommodation. Click Here
What about MTB Cycling Clubs
MTB (Mountain Biking) is one of the fastest growing sports in South Africa. There is a variety of routes are available with spectacular scenery. There are MTB clubs in Hermanus and Kleimmond. If you can’t bring your own equipment, local bike shops rent out whatever you require.
Fernkloof Nature Reserve offers a 17km circular trail which is signposted and may be joined at any point within the Fernkloof Nature Reserve.
Kleinmond Cycle Club – Hermanus Cycle Club
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