Hermanus

There is plenty to do along our gorgeous coast

Whether you’re admiring sea views and frolicking whales, immersing yourself in poetry or being active outdoors, there is plenty for you to do along our gorgeous coast during Whale Season. Our majestic giants of the sea are making their way to the beautiful Hermanus! The festival of oysters in Knysna is just around the corner July-August and then coming a flower season at West Coast area August-September. It keeps us, Capetonians, very busy. No wonder that people of Cape Town do not like to work; well, they don’t mind to work, - they simply don’t have time for it! It is ridiculous to sit in front of the computer and stare at the monitor the whole day, while there is such a beauty outside the window.
That is why I’ve decided to leave everything behind and explore Hermanus in winter: to say "hello" to whales, to talk to the people, to learn what is happening in this old town. I love Hermanus, - this quiet and slow city, where the life can stand still and suddenly become alive. Hermanus is the holiday place. There is no need to hurry there, to interrupt someone or to overtake on the road. It’s pointless. You have arrived - you are at your destination! It seems that everyone is resting there! However, it is a pity that many private shops, cafes, restaurants, wine estates are closed on Sunday. Indeed, everyone is on holiday!
I was welcomed to the Pelagus guesthouse and, having left my luggage in the room, I run to the ocean. I wanted to catch the last rays of the sun before the sunset and to feel its velvet heat on my face. Such a blessing!
In the morning after the delicious breakfast, I went to explore the town and the surroundings. I was strolling its narrow streets, where ancient buildings of the Dutch and Victorian styles remained, as well as fishing hovels, small cottages and lodges. This city is a riddle. Just 10 minutes away from the town, I discovered the beautiful wine valleys. Hemel en Aarde Estates differ from their “friends” in Stellenbosch and from other old winemaking regions. Their wine is much more interesting and complex and, as they say, you can taste and feel the breeze of the ocean in their wines. I had lunch at the restaurant with unusual name "The Restaurant" at the beautiful farm Newton Johnson. On a second day, I was invited by the talented hostess and the creator of a unique place called Creation. What I saw there exceeded all my expectations. I was astonished by unusual pairing of refined wines and gourmet dishes of molecular kitchen. Caroline generously treated me and explained how these dishes were selected and how such pairing will help clients to estimate all charm of these wines. She managed it!
And what about the whales? Whales are such good fellows. Despite an economic crisis and an unstable political situation, they came again. And there will be more of them since new babies will be born soon. 2-3 tons kids will play in the water under the rays of the South African sun, while their 20 tons mommies are going watch them with admiration. Come and celebrate winter and spring with the whales at the best coastal festival of the year, which features great food and wine, Food and Music Marquee, quality crafters, great sports events, kids’ entertainment and much more.