HermanusTimes-Infoguide-2025

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Photos courtesy of: Mitzi Buys, Hermanus Times, Cape Whale Coast Tourism, Cobus Germishuys, Carl Bloemstein, De Wet’s Huis Museum, Martin Etsebeth

Design & Layout: Glaudia Potgieter, Ben Burger

Editor: Mariëtte Strydom

Subeditor and proofreader: Michail Rassool

Publisher: Justin Cupido

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34 Main Road, Birkenhead Building (next door to DR Church), Tel: 028 312 3717

©Copyright All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without prior written permission of the publishers. The views expressed in Hermanus/Overberg Info is not necessarily those of the publishers

The Overberg

JUST a stone’s throw from the busy city lies the Overberg with its mountain ranges, fynbos, canola fields, bird life and spectacular ocean views.

The Overberg is a hidden gem and the ideal place for eco-adventurers and nature lovers. The Overberg District Municipality is one that governs the Overberg region in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is divided into four local municipalities, which include the major towns of Grabouw, Caledon, Hermanus, Bredasdorp and Swellendam.

The Overberg was explored as early as 1663. The reason for these expeditions was to buy cattle and take them back to Cape Town. These explorers mapped the Overberg out, breaching the mountain barriers that divided it from the rest of the country.

Dutch names were attached to the rivers and mountains, ones that remain in use today.

The area, always been considered the breadbasket of the Cape, is largely given to grain farming, mainly wheat.

The wheat fields are a major breeding ground for South Africa’s national bird, the blue crane. Another important crop in the Overberg is fruit, with the Elgin Valley producing most of it.

Birdwatching is a great pastime, with species such as the Cape Sugar Bird, Sunbirds, Rock Thrushes and Rock Jumpers most commonly spotted. There are many raptors to be seen, including Jackal

Buzzards and Black Eagles.

The ocean is also a major attraction for tourists, and several whale species can be seen in the area all year.

But viewing Southern Right Whales from Hermanus is world-renowned; the best time for whale watching in Hermanus is from June to December, when large numbers of Southern Right Whales congregate here for mating.

Known as the Great White Shark Cage Diving Hot Spot of the world, Gansbaai offers unrivalled encounters with one of the world’s most feared predators alive.

This area also offers many award-winning markets, world-renowned events and festivals. Some of these include the Whale Festival in Hermanus, Patat Festival in Napier, FynArts Festival in Hermanus, Nampo Agricultural Festival in Bredasdorp, the well-known Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse Walk, the Cape Epic, Wines2Whales event, Greyton’s Art Walk and Rose Festival, and much more.

For the experience of a lifetime the Overberg with all its activities is a must on anyone’s bucket list. V Destinations in the Overberg: Baardskeerdersbos, Barrydale, Betty’s Bay, Bot River, Buffeljagsrivier, Caledon, Cape Agulhas, De Hoop, De Kelders, Elgin, Elim, Fisherhaven, Franskraal, Gansbaai, Genadendal, Grabouw, Greyton, Hawston, Heidelberg, Hermanus, Kleinbaai, Kleinmond, Malgas, Onrus, Pearly Beach, Pringle Bay, Riviersonderend, Rooi Els, Sandbaai, Stanford, Suurbraak, Swellendam, Tesselaarsdal, Vermont, Villiersdorp and Witsand.

www

Dive into adventure with our acclaimed Shark Cage Diving and Marine Big 5/Whale Watching tours – an experience that crafts lasting memories for your entire family Explore the vibrant Dyer Island ecosystem off Gansbaai, South Africa, and contribute to essential marine research and conservation initiatives. Your choice makes a difference.

Wines of the Overberg

THE Overberg is one of the most famous and prolific wine regions in the Western Cape.

• The Bot River Wine Route: This credo of the Botrivier Winegrowers Association describes the unspoilt, down-to-earth, sociable character of the farmers – “our wines are for lovers of the road less travelled”. Within a 10 km radius the wine traveller can experience real country hospitality and taste wines made from the oldest vines in the region as well as the latest, most innovative varietals from new plantings. From historic and traditional wineries to the most modern, state-of-the-art cellars, the common denominators are a warm welcome; handcraftes, top quality wines; a commitment to biodiversity and the desire to share hours of sociable snippient with fellow wine lovers. (www.botrivierwines.com)

• The Walker Bay Wine District’s most important road, the Hemel-en-Aarde Road (R320), aligns South Africa’s premium cool-climate wine region. Not only does it offer visitors to the area the opportunity to experience world-renowned and award-winning Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but also some of our country’s best Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz and innovative blends. For more information, visit www.hermanuswineroute.com or contact Hermanus Tourism on 028 312 2629. The route unites the passion and reputation of many wineries, each producing small volumes of uncompromising wines.

Stonehaven

• Stanford Wine Route: This Wine Route includes large wellknown wine estates and boutique-style microestablishments set in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom. Top winemakers produce wines, many of which are winning awards and receiving accolades. Boschrivier, Maanschijn, Misty Mountain, Raka, Sir Robert Stanford, Stanford Hills, Springfontein, Vaalvlei, Walker Bay and Welgesind invite you to a viticultural experience not to be missed. The Stanford Wine Route includes wineries, craft breweries and distilleries. (https:// xplorio.com/stanford/ stanford-wine-route/)

• Elgin Wine Route: Elgin, just a stone throw from the famous Stellenbosch Wine Route, rises between 250 m to 400 m above sea level and this coupled with prevailing southerly winds contribute to the cool climate that characterises its terroir and wines. Proximity to the South Atlantic Ocean, just 12 km away, means lower average temperatures over summer and refreshing early-morning mists. This combination of climate-moderating factors makes for slower ripening and thus morebalanced wines with great depth. (www.wine-searcher.com)

High Season Farm is in the picturesque Hemel en Aarde Valley, near Hermanus.

Join us for a relaxing and comfortable stay in our luxurious 4-star self-catering cottages, each one privately tucked away in its own piece of paradise. Our child-friendly farm and the surrounding area have much to explore.

021 200 2514 076 283 9845

info@highseasonfarm.co.za www.highseasonfarm.co.za

• Cape Agulhas Wine Route: This wine route is a one-of-a-kind wine-growing location on SA’s southernmost tip. The majority of the vineyards are located around Elim. This town is a historic site and is situated on a peninsula that is bordered by the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. In the wine community Cape Agulhas has become a sensation due to its distinctive terroir. The dominant southwesterly and south-easterly breezes are cold and strong, resulting in a very mild ripening season that is ideal for Sauvignon Blanc and promising for Semillon and Shiraz. (https://www.winetourism.com/ wine-appellation/cape-agulhas/)

Festivals & Markets

THE Overberg is home to a variety of annual festivals and bustling weekends as well as farmers’ markets.

• Hermanus FynArts: Hermanus celebrates the best of South African art, wine, food, music and film. Stimulate and uplift all your senses with visual art, talks, demonstrations, music, workshops, wine tastings and pairings, films and more. (www.hermanusfynarts.co.za)

• Passion Play: Hermanus’ own Oberammergau has been performed since 1995 in its unique rocky setting in the Old Harbour as the moon rises. Enjoy this celebration of the birth, life, crucifixion and resurrection of Christ on Good Friday. (www.passiespel.co.za)

• Kalfiefees: The Kalfiefees brings top theatre productions at affordable prices. The Kalfiefees, which takes place during the Women’s Day weekend in August, comprises several elements. Top music and theatre productions are hosted throughout the weekend, while the art exhibition gives much-needed exposure to up-and-coming visual artists. There are also book discussions, children’s theatre and the Women’s Day event is always a highlight. (www.kalfiefees-hermanus.co.za)

• Hermanus Whale Festival: This popular ecomarine festival takes place in September. Visit (www.hermanuswhalefestival.co.za)

• Hermanus Wine and Food Festival: One of South Africa’s top 10 wine festivals, it includes the premier wine producers of the Cape South Coast and local speciality food and delicacy producers. The venue is Curro Hermanus.

• Greyton Genadendal Classics for All Festival takes place in May. Classical music lovers can again enjoy a weekend of beautiful music, comfort food, warm fires and the amazing ambience of the neighbouring villages of Greyton and Genadendal. Concerts will be performed in the beautiful historic churches of Greyton and Genadendal.

• Greyton’s Wine Festival: Raise a glass on the stoep with some of SA’s best winemakers. After a smash-hit launch in 2021 the entire Overberg dorpie of Greyton will once again be turned into a living, breathing celebration of food, wine, and art. It’s the ultimate festival for people who don’t like festivals!

• Greyton Rose Fair: What started as a small fair has grown over the years to an enormous event that is a fixture on the Western Cape social calendar and has become well-known throughout our country. The Rose Show attracts people countrywide, as do the impressive open gardens. This festival will be held in September.

• Nampo Cape: Grain SA, together with Bredasdorp Park NPC, is grateful for the more than 30 000 guests who visited Nampo Cape each year. With the possible future involvement of other organised agricultural institutions, the NAMPO Cape platform promises to meet everyone’s needs – truly the agricultural exhibition in the South.

• Toy Run® Overberg is held on the last Sunday of November. Bikers will gather at four points over the Overberg and will join to form a mass ride, ending in the quaint village of Stanford. Event Courtesy of www.facebook.com/OverbergToyRun.

Regular weekend markets:

• The Hermanus Country Market is held from 09:00 to 14:00 every Saturday at the Hermanus Cricket Grounds. Get there early to buy farm-fresh veggies and artisan bread, have coffee and some breakfast, meet up with friends, share a bottle of wine, enjoy live music, shop for handmade handcrafts and more.

• The Onrus Market, on the first Saturday of each month at the De Wet Hall in Roos Street, Onrus from 09:00 to 12:00. It offers arts, crafts, home-made goodies and much more.

• Greyton’s Saturday Morning Market is renowned for its fresh, scrumptious fare and other close-tonature products. Every Saturday morning from 10:00 to 12:00 Greyton’s Market Square is abuzz with activity, where people flock to buy home-made and home-crafted goods.

• Stanford Saturday Morning Market: Come join on the stoep of the historic Stanford Hotel and have your fill of delights that are part of Stanford’s heritage! Frankfurters, pickles, eclairs, brownies, pork crackling, fired oven ciabatta breads and giant pizza slices as well as Stanford slices (custard), fresh garden vegetables and preserves, goats cheese and homespun wool.

• The Elgin Railway Market is within an old apple warehouse converted into a bustling Steampunk, Art Deco venue. The market offers local food and craft vendors and live music. The Ceres Rail company with their stable of 80-year-old steam trains operate a Cape Town to Elgin weekend return trip. The train’s arrival is a must-see for children (and adults) as they roar in with thunderous whistling, puffing and hooting. The Elgin Railway Market is open every Saturday and Sunday.

• Bot River Country Market: The market is based at the Shuntin Shed Diner. The Shuntin Shed is based on the railway tracks of the Bot River Train Station. Lovely atmosphere and old history. It is a free market. Every Saturday from 10:00 to 14:00.

• Accident spotters fee - 081 437 0814

• Approved by all major insurance companies

• Accident call number - 081 437 0814

• Covering the majority of the Overberg and the whole of the Helderberg

• Motor and bakkie spares

• 24/7 Roadside assistance

Outing and Activities

THE Overberg is full of surprises. It’s a place with wineries, award-winning restaurants and scenery that will take your breath away. But what makes the Overberg unique are its outdoor activities that will keep you coming back year after year.

. Ziplining in Elgin and Caledon: The Elgin Valley boasts spectacular views, and with the 11 different ziplines among 13 platforms you can enjoy an uninterrupted view of the Hottentots Holland Mountains and surrounding nature reserve.

. Shark diving: Getting close to these predators is an awesome experience.

. Whale watching: Hermanus is not only the best land-based whale-watching site in the world, but also the only town in the world that has a whale crier that is officially on duty during the whaling season. Many people travel from all over the world to visit the Overberg (from Pringle Bay to Cape Agulhas) to view the more than 100 whales.

. Cycling in the Overberg: A variety of routes are available offering spectacular scenery. If you can’t bring your own equipment, bike shops rent out whatever you require. There are a few cycling events that take place every year.

. Fishing: Fishermen from all over the country are attracted by the rock angling possibilities in the Overberg. The bay offers galjoen, steenbras, cob, red roman, silver fish, red stumpnose, John Brown and more.

HERMANUS

. Horse riding: To explore the Overberg on horseback is a unique experience. The different horseback riding tours will not only take you through forests or vineyards, but also through a dune forest and across the pristine white sandy beaches of one of the most tranquil stretches of the Cape Whale Coastline.

. Quad biking: One of the best ways to see the Overberg is from a quad bike. On it you can explore the bird life and fynbos up close and personal. From wine tasting trips to sunset trips there is always something to see on a quad bike.

. Kayaking: Kayaking is a way to explore the ocean and to come up close and personal with seals, dolphins and whales. Expert guides will accompany you to connect with the ocean and glide through the seas. This is a great way to experience the Overberg.

. Paragliding: To experience Hermanus from above solo or in tandem. The breathtaking coastal scenery and beautiful mountains make this an experience of a lifetime, one that will leave anyone with plenty of stories for the future.

. Sandboarding: The dunes in the Overberg are ideal for sandboarding. From gentle slopes for beginners, to steeper gradients for the more experienced sandboarder.

. Kitesurfing: Whether a seasoned kitesurfer or not and you’re feeling inspired to give kitesurfing a try, the Overberg is absolutely the place for water sports.

. Sailing: With its unique location excellent water sports conditions, good infrastructure and picturesque setting, the Theewater Sports Club has grown from humble beginnings. The Hermanus Yacht Club, on the northern shore of the Kleinrivier Lagoon (Stofvlei), is also the perfect place to enjoy sailing.

. Scuba diving: Various spectacular reefs may be explored by scuba divers. Reef depths vary from 9 m to 40 m.

. Kogelberg Nature Reserve: Considered by many the most beautiful of CapeNature’s protected areas, the Kogelberg Nature Reserve earns that reputation largely due to the fact that it occupies an area with minimal human interference. It has an exceptional diversity and quality of fynbos and is considered the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom. The reserve presents perhaps the finest examples of mountain fynbos in the Western Cape and is a worldrenowned World Heritage Site.

. Sandberg Fynbos Reserve: Sandberg Fynbos Reserve is located on the R43 between Baardskeerdersbos and Elim, about 30 minutes from Gansbaai. It is a 700-ha property located in the heart of the Cape’s floristic region and is home to many bird species, including the rare Hottentot buttonquail.

. Walker Bay Nature Reserve: Walker Bay is a coastal nature reserve in the south-western Cape, just east of Hermanus. The reserve includes five coastal areas between Hermanus and Die Dam near Struisbaai. The largest area, known as Walker Bay, stretches from Klein River to De Kelders at Gansbaai. Die Plaat is the area’s white sandy beach, with rocky limestone outcrops and the occasional southern right whale offshore.

. De Hoop Nature Reserve: De Hoop is one of the largest natural areas managed by CapeNature. This beautiful reserve is a favourite for hikers, cyclists, bird and whale watchers. The reserve, which is 34 000 ha, is just three hours from Cape Town.

. Fernkloof Nature Reserve: Fernkloof Nature Reserve covers 18 km² in the Kleinrivier Mountains in Hermanus and ranges in altitude from sea level to 824 m.

. Rooisand Nature Reserve: Rooisand Nature Reserve is a beautiful bird watching vlei area bordering on the Bot River lagoon. Access to Rooisand is via a dirt road off the R44 en-route to Hermanus.

. Groenlandberg Nature Reserve: The Groenlandberg or Green Mountain is a mountain range beyond the HottentotsHolland Mountains in the heart of the Cape’s fruit country, the Elgin Valley.

. De Mond Nature Reserve: De Mond is a beautiful coastal nature reserve at the mouth of the Heuningnes River. It lies about 26 km southeast of Bredasdorp on the south-western Cape coast, between Arniston and Struisbaai and is a World Heritage Site.

. Greyton Nature Reserve: The Greyton Nature Reserve is, arguably, Greyton’s greatest asset. The reserve is 2 200 ha in extent and is the third largest nature reserve in the Cape.

. Caledon Wildflower Reserve: The Caledon Wildflower Trail within the Caledon Wildflower Reserve, is a 10 km hike through natural mountain fynbos, up to the summit of the Swartberg.

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Something for the kids

LOOKING for fun and engaging activities for kids? Whether you’re planning a day of creative crafts, educational games or exciting outdoor adventures, there’s a world of possibilities to spark your imagination and energy!

. Stony Point Nature Reserve: Located in Betty’s Bay, the Stony Point Nature Reserve is home to a unique colony of African Penguins. Stony Point offers the public the chance to see these flightless birds up close, via the boardwalk through the colony, which allows the public to observe the penguins go about their daily activities in their natural habitat, without disturbing or disrupting them.

. Get close to the big cats: Panthera Africa – Big Cat Sanctuary offers you the unique opportunity to learn about the big cats and their heartfelt stories. For more information on the sanctuary phone 071 182 8368.

. The crocodile experience: Afrikanos just outside Gansbaai is home to Nile crocs, the biggest and most feared crocodile in the world. Submerge yourself into their aquatic world and observe them in their pond. For more information contact 082 220 3344.

. Petting Zoo: Step into a world of cuteness and wonder at the Rocklands Petting Farm. This special zoo set up for petting is perfect for kids and animal lovers of all ages, offering a hands-on experience with friendly animals such as goats, sheep, bunnies and more. Come and visit, and make some furry friends. The farm is on the R43 between Stanford and Hermanus, phone 076 319 7446.

. BMX tracks: BMX tracks in Hermanus are exciting, specially-designed areas where young riders can develop their biking skills in a fun and safe environment. These tracks feature a series of jumps, turns and obstacles that challenge children to improve their balance, coordination and control while riding their BMX bikes. For more information phone 064 785 9417.

. Roadhouse Cinema at Whale Coast Mall: Hey there, little movie fans! Are you ready for a fantastic adventure? Movies are more than just stories; they’re windows to exciting worlds where anything can happen! From brave heroes and funny animals to magical lands and incredible journeys, movies give us an experience of things we’ve only imagined. So, let’s grab our popcorn and get comfy, because the movie magic is about to begin! For more information, go to www.roadhousecinem.co.za

. Wonderland Nursery: Get ready for an exciting adventure at the play area! Whether you’re climbing to new heights on the jungle gym or making new friends, there’s so much fun waiting for you! For more information phone 028 316 4006.

Museums

THE importance of preserving the history of our society must not be overlooked. That is why museums play such a big and important role in the Overberg.

. Old Harbour Museum: The museum in the Old Harbour in Hermanus contains several exhibits depicting the history of the fishing and whaling industries of the area. The museum’s staff update the history of Hermanus on an ongoing basis so anyone researching information on historical buildings or old local families has easy access to it. Many guided tours and walks start from this spot. For more information phone 028 313 0418.

. Whale Museum: Daily at 10:00 and 15:00 an audio-visual presentation is given at the Whale Museum. This presentation takes you below the surface for a face-toface encounter with the visiting Southern Right whales. For more information phone 028 313 0418.

. De Wet’s House Photo Museum: This picturesque and historic cottage was once the school house situated near the Dutch Reformed church in Westcliff. It was dismantled brick by numbered brick and

painstakingly re-erected on Lemm’s Corner in 1986. The sepia-coloured photographic exhibition it houses takes one on a journey through time to when Hermanus was a quaint fishing village. For more info phone 028 312 1475.

. The Caledon Museum consists of two buildings with exhibits depicting many different aspects of Caledon’s history and culture. Collections on display include memorabilia such as antique clothing, vintage medical equipment and historical militaria, which all make for a fascinating visit that highlights the Overberg town’s strong Victorian roots. In line with this, the Caledon Museum has recreated an authentic Victorian home, staged to allow a true-life glimpse into the past. The Caledon Museum also has a section dedicated to Khoisan history, with incredible artefacts collected from the area. Talented storyteller and museum docent Marlon Sauls will enthral you with interesting stories about the items showcased in the Caledon Museum.

. The Elgin Apple Museum depicts the history of the apple industry in South Africa. See the

progress from the earliest basic machinery to the latest technology now used in the apple industry. The museum is housed in one of the oldest buildings in Grabouw, a shoemaker’s cottage more than 100 years old, situated on the Palmiet River. This is one of only two apple museums in the world. For more information phone 021 848 9060.

. Bicycle Museum in Grabouw: Not only is Trail’s End the first Bike Hotel in Africa, but it also plays host to the first Bicycle Museum in Africa. Curated by Professor Mike Bruton, it consists of two galleries: Gallery I, The History of the Bicycle, and Gallery II, Celebrating Bicycles in Africa. The gallery also has a display of some of the greatest cyclists to come out of South Africa through the years and finishes with a photo gallery of the many uses of bicycles in Africa. For more information phone 021 859 5193.

. Genadendal Mission Museum: A visit to the Genadendal Mission Museum is a must. Be transported back in time and get a glimpse of what life was like hundreds of years ago. The museum is located on the site of the original mission station and consists of various buildings that were used since the mission was established. The buildings, which were declared a national monument in 1980, contain exhibits telling the story of Genadendal. There is a water mill that is still used to make ground flour. The printing exhibit houses the actual Gutenberg printer, one of the first printers in the country and which Genadendal started printing with. Meander among the authentic huts at the Khoikhoi kraal, imagining what it must have been like to live in one. See where the founding missionary Georg Schmidt’s house was and where the pear tree he taught under once stood. See where his faithful follower Magdelena was laid to rest. For more information phone 028 251 8582.

. The Drostdy Museum: The Drostdy Museum in Swellendam was built by the Dutch East India Company in 1747 to serve as the residence and official headquarters of the Landdrost (magistrate).

The first Landdrost to be appointed to this district was Johannes Theophilus Rhenius. From 1827 the Drostdy was occupied by the civil commissioner who, with the resident magistrate, replaced the board of Landdrost and Heemraden that were abolished by the British colonial government. For more information phone 028 514 1138.

. Bredasdorp Shipwreck Museum: The Bredasdorp Shipwreck Museum opened in the 1960s and was proclaimed a museum in 1975. It is the only Shipwreck Museum in South Africa and pays tribute to the 150 ships that met an untimely end along the Cape’s tumultuous coast. Besides a handful of replicas, almost all the artefacts in the museum are original. Along the Cape coastline, there are a reported 150 shipwrecks that represent various nationalities, ranging from Denmark, Portugal, France, United Kingdom, Japan, Netherlands, Taiwan, Germany and more. For more information phone 028 424 1240.

SPORT events play a major role in the Overberg.

. Hot Summer of Touch: The Hot Summer of Touch series gets underway early in December in Kleinmond before heading to Cape Town, and Camps Bay in particular, followed by events in Strand, Macassar and then Struisbaai and Stilbaai, the final event being Hartenbos and Diaz Beach. Beach touch rugby-loving fanatics can look forward to seeing their favourite team in action. This series has been ever-growing since its first inception in 2001. Teams can register on the newly updated Hot Summer of Touch series website (https:// hotsummeroftouch.co.za/)

. Bodyboarding: The IBC Bodyboarding World Tour came to the sleepy little seaside village of Onrus, just outside Hermanus. The Walker Bay Pro showcased the best bodyboarding talent from South Africa versus the best the rest of the world has to offer via live-streaming. Naturally local support lining the beach front during the events is what South Africans re famous for.

066 281 8207 5 Adam Rd, Hermanus thecolourbox2024@outlook com

. Trans Agulhas Boat Race: The ‘Worlds Toughest Inflatable Boat Challenge’ begins at the end of December in Plettenberg Bay and is considered among the competitors as the Cape Epic of Boat Races. On the final two stages of the four-day gruelling boat race will open their throttles from Struisbaai Main Beach with checkpoints at Die Damme, Pearly Beach and midway finish at Uilenkraalsmond. 30 minutes after the last boat arrived at Uilenkraalsmond, they will re-start and continue to fly by check point at Gansbaai Harbour. From Gansbaai Harbour the boats head towards Hermanus Old Harbour fly-by safety boat, with a beach check point at Hawston Beach, Kleinmond fly-by safety boat, another beach check point at Pringle Bay and from there continue to Gordon’s Bay and Strand Beach to finish the challenge.

. Wines2Whales: The FNB Wines2Whales was born out of the desire to create a world-class three-day stage race in the Western Cape. Since their inception in 2009, the three events, aptly named after the wines of the area, have become a must-do event on the mountain-bike calendar. The spirit of the FNB Wines2Whales is gees, a truly South African phrase that is understood only once experienced. The race’s biggest drawcard is undoubtedly the route, which has been perfected over the past years. In 2022, the race followed the traditional route and took teams from the wines of Lourensford to the whales of Hermanus. Hermanus offers the best shore-based whale watching in the world: the magnificent creatures flock to Walker Bay every year and can be observed only metres away from the cliffs and paths lining the shore. In recent years Hermanus has also become something of a mountain biking mecca, with trails springing up on the nearby hills and valleys.

. The THIRSTI

AFRICANX TRAILRUN

1-Day and 3-Day XPERIENCE: This trailrun delivered exciting trail running at Paul Cluver Wines (Grabouw). Synonymous with magnificent trails, spectacular views, mouth-watering food, a relaxed atmosphere and great vibe, the THIRSTI AFRICANX TRAILRUN featured Paul Cluver’s most iconic trails, including those usually closed to the public. Based on various terrain, comprising views, climbs and descents, this route could be considered trail running heaven!

. Walker Bay Outdoor

Celebrate the great outdoors in Hermanus in April. HI-TEC and Walker Bay Outdoor, together, host a long weekend of mountain biking, trail running, triathlons, open-water swims, cliff jumps and the exhilarating HI-TEC Dash4Cash. This is set to become South Africa’s most eagerly anticipated outdoor festival, the HI-TEC Walker Bay Xtreme combining six events for the serious athletes. There is also a plethora of choices for the less avid sportsmen and -women. Off the trails and out of the ocean, the Walker Bay Festival will provide unique dining experiences, ranging from five-star meals to gourmet street foods. It will also showcase the region’s award-winning wines, a chance to sample burgeoning local craft beer and celebrate with several of SA’s most famous sport icons. There’s an activity for everyone at the HI-TEC Walker Bay Outdoor.

TOURISM OFFICES

Business Index

• Bredasdorp Tourism Bureau: 028 424 2584; 19 Long Street, Bredasdorp bredasdorp@discovercapeagulhas.co.za

• Elgin Tourism Bureau: 071 267 9785; N2 & R321 Grabouw info@elgingrabouw.co.za

• Hermanus Tourism Bureau: 028 313 8930; cnr Lord Roberts & Mitchell Streets www.hermanustourism.info

ACCOMMODATION

• Anna's CountryAccommodation 1 Market Street, Greyton; 084 764 6012 info@annasplace.co.za

• Art boxAccommodation 082 785 3774. Greyton

• Butlers Holiday HomeAccommodation Managers:082 822 5039/083 631 2897 butler@hermanus.co.za www.butlerschoice.co.za

• Baleia Guest House: 028 312 2513 57; Main Road (cnr Bird Lane), Hermanus, 7200 www.baleia.co.za; Email: baleia@hermanus.co.za;Twitter: @baleiaguesthouse; Emergency Cell: 083 300 2492

• Blue Sky Guest House -Arniston:071 418 6209/028 445 9010; blueskyarniston@gmail.com; www.blueskyguesthousearniston.co.za; Facebook: blueskyarnistonguesthouse

• Bottom House & The Cottage: 082 558 8731; 319 Main Road, Hermanus; charlynvosloo@gmail.com; www.bottomhouse.com

• Chesham House: 028 313 0023; 319 Main Road, Hermanus; chesham@hermanus.co.za; www.chesham.co.za

• Eastcliff Cottage: 082 378 1833 – 31 Mitchell Street, Eastcliff – Hermanus; Email: eastcliffcottage@hermanus.co.za; www.eastcliffcottage.co.za

• Eastbury Cottage: 082 658 4945; 36 Luyt Street, Eastcliff, Hermanus; Email: eastbury@hermanus.co.za; www.eastburycottage.co.za

• Great White House: 028 384 3273; Restaurant, shop and accommodation; 5 Geelbek Street, Gansbaai; gwhinfo@marinedynamicstravel.com

• Hermanus Boutique Guest House: 028 313 1433; 9 Marine Drive, Hermanus; reservations@hermanusguesthouse.co.za; www.hermanusguesthouse.co.za

• High Season Farm Luxury Cottages: 021 200 2514/076 283 9845 info@highseasonfarm.co.za www.highseasonfarm.co.za

• Hornbill House Hermanus: +27 (0) 073 888 6363 info@hornbillhouse.co.za www.hornbillhouse.co.za

• Lavender Manor Guest Lodge: 072 660 8201; 184 10th Street, Voëlklip, Hermanus; info@lavendermanor.co.za; www.lavendermanor.co.za

• Mulligans Guest Lodge: 083 268 6805; 275 Main Road Hermanus;   info@mulligans-golflodge.co.za; www.mulligans-golflodge.co.za

• Sixteen Guest House on Main: 083 875 0398; 16 Main Road, Westcliff, Hermanus; sixteen@hermanus.co.za; www.sixteenhermanus.co.za

• Stonehaven Self Catering Eco Cabins: www.stayatstonehaven.co.za bookings@stayatstonehaven.co.za

• Windsor Hotel: 028 312 3727/028 312 2181; 49 Marine Drive, Hermanus, 7200; info@windsorhotel.co.za; www.windsorhotel.co.za

• Windsor Self CateringApartments: 028 312 3727; 49 Marine Drive, Hermanus Seafront apartments (fully equipped, serviced daily); info@windsorhotel.co.za; www.windsorhotel.co.za

Business Index

ACTIVITIES AND ADVENTURES

• Hermanus Whale Cruises: 0283132722/0823698931; hermanuswhales@lantic.net

• KiteSurfHermanus:0838750398;Lessons,rentals,sales; 16MainRoad,Westcliff,Hermanus; info@kitesurfhermanus.co.za;www.kitesurfhermanus.co.za

• MarineDynamics:  082 380 3405/082 801 8014; Immerseyourselfinmarineadventures(sharkcagediving andMarineBig5Tour);sharks@marinedynamicstravel.com; whales@marinedynamicstravel.com

• WhiteSharkProjects:076 245 5880; bookings@whitesharkprojects.co.za; www.whitesharkprojects.co.za

• WildebraamBerryEstate:0285143132/0823802080; Swellendam;www.wildebraam.co.za

• WildWellness:083 293 7208;Enjoylifenaturally; info@wildwellness.co.za

AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION

• OverbergTechnoservice: 0283131732;Units4&9 MusselCentre, HermanusIndustria; technoservice@hermanus.co.za

APPLIANCE REPAIRS & SERVICES PUTTERSWORLD

PUTTER’S WORLD PTY LTD

ATTORNEYS / PROKUREURS

BOSMANSMITPRETORIUSINGINC

Prokureurs - Attorneys

BLINDS & AWNINGS

• TheShadeShop(awnings,blinds,shutters): 0283163777/0837774277;OnrusTradingPost; shadeshop@telkomsa.net

• Blinds&FlooringStudio:0824175590/0283843898 info@blindsflooring.co.za

ontvangs@bosmansmit.co.za

BUILDING, RENOVATIONS; HOME DESIGNS & HARDWARE

• CoastlineFlooring:0283121543;PostnetSandbaai, Hermanus;www.coastlineflooring.co.zaComfiBedsHermanus: 0283122616;6WhaleParkAdamStreet

• ComfiBedsKleinmond:0721276316; ShopriteShoppingCentre

• EpicTanks:0713646767;Water&chemicalstoragetanks

• WRProjects:0780089025 westernregionproducts@gmail.com

• The Colour Box Dulux: Hermanus SPC 066 281 8207 GansbaaiSPC0846097777thecolourbox2024@outlook.com

Business Index

CURIOS & GIFT SHOP

• Judy's Crystal Corner: 082 740 7279AsmallAladdin's cave of crystals, gemstones, shells, crystal jewellery, fossils, smudge sticks and more. Stall 36 at the Old Harbour Market facing KFC. judymillercrystals@gmail.com

DENTISTS

• DrAndré van Zyl: 028 312 1510/064 640 8394 ; Spesialis in Mondgeneeskunde en Periodonsie; Specialist in Oral Medicine & Periodontics; 9 College Street, Hermanus; info@andrevanzyl.co.za

HEALTH CARE

• Dr Juan de la Cruz: 028 054 0068; Shop B10, Gateway Centre, Main Road, Hermanus

HORSE RIDING

• African Horse Co:082 667 9232; Beach & mountain horse trails; contact@africanhorseco.com; www.africanhorseco.com

MOTOR VEHICLE REPAIRS, SPARES & GARAGES

• Midas Hermanus: 028 313 0095; Mussel Centre, Mussel Street; hermanus@midas.co.za

STATIONERY

• Hermanus Office National: 028 313 0003; CnrArum & Mimosa Streets, Industria; Shop C12, Gateway Lifestyle Centre; hermanus@officenational.co.za

PEST CONTROL

• Overberg Pest Control: 028 316 3100/ 082 563 9514; opc@mweb.co.za

• Walker Bay Pest Control: 028 316 3010/082 894 4652; Providing pest control solutions in Hermanus & the greater Overberg since 1996. Specialising in beetle inspections (COC's), timber treatment & structural fumigations as well as residential, industrial & commercial pest control; office@wbpestcontrol.co.za

ESTATE AGENCIES

• Chas Everitt: 084 792 1548; Seafront apartment sales agent; janeday@everitt.co.za

• Harmonie Property Services: 071 505 9201;Aholiday rental and property management company; 19 Bird Lane Northcliff; www.harmonieprop.co.za; info@harmonieprop.co.za

• Schulenburg Property Group: 028 316 2778/ 082 721 5632 www.sprop.co.za

• Redz etc.Apartment Sales Real Estate, Real Experts Jane Day 084 792 1548 Cruz Wentzel 072 625 0653

• Accommodation Galore: 028 312 4850 / 086 653 2538 pikkie@accommodationgalore.co.za info@accommodationgalore.co.za; www.accommodationgalore.co.za

• Schulenburg Property Group Hermanus: 028 316 2778; 082 721 5632; www.sprop.co.za

HOLIDAY RENTAL & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

• Harmonie Property Services: 071 505 9201Aholiday rental and property management company ; 19 Bird Lane Northcliff www.harmonieprop.co.za info@harmonieprop.co.za

NURSERY * KWEKERY AFDAKS NURSERY

Between Botrivier & Hermanus on the R43 082 652 1794 | www.afdaksrivier.co.za

TRAVEL AND TOURS

• Bluu Car Rental: 028 313 0526; 34 Main Road, Hermanus; vouchers.hm@bcr.co.za

• D & J Tours: 072 984 3763 (Jerome) 060 973 8804 (Delmaine) Hermanus Shuttle: 087 551 1010 (Tel and WhatsApp); Wine tours, sightseeing, event & airport, transfers; shuttle@hermanus.co.za; www.hermanus-shuttle.co.za

• Hermanus Travel: 028 313 0526/082 399 5251; 34 Main Road, Hermanus; eleanor@hermanustravel.co.za

• Splash Shuttle & Tours: 028 316 4004/082 658 5375; 32 Dempers Street, Onrus;  splash@hermanus.co.za

• Village Tours & Transfers & Accommodation: 082 562 1265; village@mweb.co.za; www.villagetours.co.za

• The Hermanus Dassie Tours & Transfers: 061 540 3790 / 071 904 8811 info@thehermanusdassie.co.za www.thehermanusdassie.co.za

JEWELLERS, GOLDSMITHS, WATCHMAKER & REPAIRS DORITA QUINTAL JEWELLER & GOLDSMITH

D RITA UINTAL

Jewellery Designer & Goldsmith

Design - Gold - Diamonds - Pearls - Gemstones 7 Hope Street, CALEDON 7230 Cell: 082 468 6478

• Swisstech– watch repairs: 028 312 3654/083 290 7607; 10C Mitchell Street, Hermanus

• Taurus Manufacturing Jewellers: 028 313 2976; Lineshop no 8, Pick n Pay Centre; taurusjewellers@gmail.com

WINE & DINE

• La Pentola: 028 313 1685 87; Marine Drive, Village Square International fusion cuisine; Monday to Sunday; www.lapentola.co.za:00

LOCKSMIITH

• Prag Key & Heel Bar: 028 313 0717; 9 Long Street, Hermanus

PHOTOGRAPHY

• Hansie Oosthuizen Photography: 072 878 1787 www.hansiephoto.co.za; info@hansiephoto.co.za

Mon - Sat

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