Whale Watching:
Hermanus is one of the twelve best whale viewing sites in the world, and the best for land based whale watching in the world. From June to the end of November there are Southern Right whales in the bay and a walk along the cliff path will be all you need to understand why we have registered that claim. The best time to view whales and when you are almost guaranteed spectacular displays is from August to end October. The whales calve in August and September and the population peaks in October.

Great Golfing
In 2006, the Hermanus Golf Course has undergone a major overhaul with the introduction of nine new holes, based around a new real estate component. Previously the golf course had gentle country layout which has been replaced with more modern classically designed holes, that have added much to both the visual and challenging aspects of the course, without losing any sense of its former tradition. This tradition, created by original designer Bob Grimsdell, which was based around the gentle mountain surrounds, sea views and country hospitality, and though those ingredients remain, this golfing venue has truly reached a new level. This is not surprising, as South Africa's foremost golf course architect, Peter Matkovich, was retained to infuse his special brand of flair and experience to maximise the potential on this scenic and gentle landscape. The style is immediately noticeable in the use of new water and rocky features, as well as the introduction of visually pleasant grassy mounds adding definition and shape to the holes.

The changes have achieved a great boost to the challenge of this golf course. The improvements have created an opportunity for a real challenge if the course is played from the back tees, while the introduction of different tees (championship, members, seniors and ladies) will allow all levels of golfers to participate in competitions.

The whole feel of the course has been modernised with the shaping of fairways, bunkers, rocky water hazards etc., all adding a visual as well as a challenging flow to the course, which is sure to offer a wonderful experience for all golf lovers.

Arts & Crafts:
Hermanus has always attracted a large number of artistically talented people. You will find numerous painters, sculptors, poets, ceramicists, jewellery designers, glass designers, quilters and photographers in Hermanus and surrounding areas.

There are many talented artists living and working in Hermanus, brining the area international recognition. The local market, trading on Saturdays (and Sundays during peak season), will give you the opportunity to view a few of the local artists.

There are also excellent African curio type works brought in from further north but the quilts, ceramics, precious stone jewellery and most fabric paintings are all local artists.

Beaches:
There are many fantastic beaches in and around Hermanus. Just down the road towards Voëlklip is the Blue Flag beach at Grotto. South Africa was the first outside Europe to win Blue Flag accreditation for some of its beaches. A section of Grotto Beach offers bathers/swimmers standard international facilities that include lifesavers, security guards and spotless cloakrooms.

Grotto beach literally stretches for kilometers making it ideal for those wanting to take a long walk. From Grotto you can walk to the mouth of the lagoon, which is closed for part of the year depending on water levels. Grotto has good ablution blocks, beach chairs and umbrellas are for hire. A restaurant, play-park and facilities make this a favorite amongst the holiday makers. Braai facilities and ample parking can also be found at Grotto beach.

Walks:
The Cliff Paths:
Hermanus has a variety of beautiful walks that is sure to suit your requirements. However please do remember that it is always advisable to walk with a friend rather than walking alone. The Cliff path starts from Grotto beach and goes all the way to the New Harbour. This path goes past Voëlklip beach, Kammabaai, Langbaai, Mussel River beach, which is excellent for picking up shells, along the cliff top and passes Siever’s Point and Die Gang, which are both excellent whale watching spots. Please do not go down to the rocky outcrops. The sea, however benign it looks, is very dangerous and unpredictable. After Gearing’s Point it progresses west to the New Harbour. The cliff paths are in length the total of 15km.

Fernkloof Nature Reserve:
The Fernkloof Nature Reserve is just up the road above the circle in Voëlklip. There is an information centre at the top of the parking lot which will supply you with many interesting information regarding the local hiking trails and fauna and flora. The walks are all clearly marked and of different lengths, so you can decide how adventurous you feel that day. It is one of the richest floral kingdoms in the world, with a glorious flower show each September.

Markets:
There are three markets on a Saturday morning:
Fernkloof Farmer’s Market
This is a market not to be missed! The Fernkloof Farmer’s Market is famous for its fresh organic vegetables, cheeses, breads, jams etc. Great fun to have breakfast there and if you’re in luck the Marimba band will be playing. But don’t be late or you’ll miss out on the best produce! The market opens at 07:00 until 11:30. Situated on your way to the Fernkloof Nature Reserve. (First left turn-off just before the Voëlklip circle) Hermanuspietersfontein Market
This is a more upper-class market where you are sure to find gourmet cheeses, lovely wines, organic vegatables and great company. It is situated at Hermanuspietersfontein winery in the Hemel en Aarde Valley. Market open from 08:00 – 14:00.

Market Square – Central Hermanus
The Market Square offers you a wide variety of local arts, crafts, gemstones, clothing and African art. It is a great place to source presents for you are sure to find something unique. Market opens from 09:00 – 14:00. Some stalls remain open all week.

For more information, contact the Hermanus Tourism Buro:
+27(28)3122629; +27(28)3130305; www.whalecoast.info

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