Hermanus

Hermanus

Hermanus (originally called Hermanuspietersfontein but shortened in 1902 as the name was too long for the postal service), is a town on the southern coast of the Western Cape, South Africa. It is famous for southern right whale watching during the southern winter and spring and is a popular retirement location. The whales can be seen from the cliffs in the town centre as early as June and usually depart in early December. They were once hunted in the nearby town of Betty’s Bay but are now protected to ensure the survival of the species. The Old Harbour Museum contains several exhibitions that explain the whaling industry, the De Wetshuis Photo Museum houses an exhibition of photos by T. D. Ravenscroft that depicts the history of Hermanus and the Whale Museum houses a skeleton of a whale. Read more >
Activity: Drive the scenic route to Hermanus (140km) for a visit plus do a wine tasting at a wine estate.