Travelling from Cape Town to Hermanus can be one of the best travel experiences for anyone looking to have the best out of South Africa. It is a thriving holiday resort offering residents and holiday-makers modern amenities, yet retaining its fishermen’s village charm. That sound like a must-visit destination in South Africa for both local and international tourists.
The world’s top land-based whale watching site is the well-known resort town of Hermanus, which is nestled between a mountain range and the ocean. As a result, the erstwhile fishing community has experienced an enormous expansion in recent years.
The town’s natural scenic beauty, mild climate, variety of outdoor activities, and accessibility to accommodations in Cape Town—Hermanus is only 140 kilometres from the capital—all contribute to its success The best starting point from which to tour Western Cape Overberg.
There is something for everyone in Hermanus. Over 40 kilometres of walks in the lovely mountains that provide an imposing backdrop to the town may be found at the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, ranging from easy to demanding. The nature reserve’s new 14 km of distinctive cliff trails feature a mix of coastal fynbos and birds.
In this article, Mrpocu.com will outline the best you can get from your trip from Cape Town to Hermanus (ultimate travel guide). From some of the best top things to do on your way to some of the best accommodations that will make your trip a memorable one.
Cape Town To Hermanus Route Mape
Taking a taxi or private shuttle from Cape Town to Hermanus is the only travel option, and is nonetheless a great option. The trip from Cape Town International airport to Hermanus is one of the most scenic routes in the world. Going further, taxis are a reliable way when travelling in South Africa, directly taking you and your loved ones to your destination in safety.
Transportation From Cape Town To Hermanus
Taxis
The only and safest method to get to the lovely beach village of Hermanus is by cab from Cape Town International Airport. Taxis are a practical and dependable alternative for transfers because they offer door-to-door service and can get you to your Hermanus hotel in 1 hour and 25 minutes.
Taxis calculate their fares using a taximeter, based on the time and distance travelled. A one-way journey from Cape Town International to Hermanus costs around €66.50 (ZAR 1100), traffic dependant. You can find Cape Town airport’s official taxi ranks as you exit the arrivals terminal, on the ground floor.
However, if you wish to travel at a fixed rate fare, and have your taxi driver wait outside the arrivals door for you, then it is recommended to pre-book your Cape Town airport transfer online.
Useful Tips
Make sure that the taximeter has been turned on and reset before starting your journey.
Not all taxis take credit cards, it is important to ask your driver before leaving the airport.
It is advisable to use a recommended taxi service to avoid being overcharged.
Self-Driving From Cape Town To Hermanus
Another best way to travel from Cape Town To Hermanus is to hire a car and be self-driving. There are top online car rentals that offer you airport pick-up and drop-off. Visit discovercars.com for the best rental rate.
Useful Tips
- Have a good driving experience in driving in other countries or cities.
- Make sure you have an international driver’s licence if you are a tourist.
Train
There is no direct connection from Cape Town to Hermanus. However, you can take the train to Van der Stel and then take the taxi to Hermanus. Alternatively, you can take the train to Strand and then take the taxi to Hermanus.
Best Stops Along Cape Town To Hermanus
In typical traffic, it should take 1 hour and 35 minutes to travel 76.4 miles (123 kilometres) in a direct route from Cape Town Central to Hermanus. For anyone planning a road trip from Cape Town Central to Hermanus, I have done the homework and created a list of fantastic rest places and fun things to do on your way.
One can only explore like this if you are with a travel agency that offers such a tour package or if you are self-driving from Cape Town to Hermanus.
The top cities between Cape Town and Hermanus are Stellenbosch, Simon’s Town, Franschhoek, Overstrand, Constantia, Somerset West, and Paarl. Stellenbosch is the most popular city on the route — it’s less than an hour from Cape Town Central and 1 hour from Hermanus. And all of these cities have much to offer anyone looking to have the best through this route.
Constantia
South African city of Cape Town’s neighbourhood of Constantia produces wine. The numerous vineyards dotting the Constantia Valley are connected by the Constantia Wine Route. Groot Constantia Homestead & Wine Museum is housed in a 17th-century wine estate and features a manor home with 18th- and 19th-century furnishings as well as collections of carriages and drinking utensils. The Alphen Trail is bordered by trees and is part of the Constantia Greenbelt network.
Paarl
In the South African province of the Western Cape, the city of Paarl has a population of 191,013 people. It is the largest town in the Cape Winelands and the third-oldest town and European settlement in the Republic of South Africa. The Mbekweni township has expanded, and together with Wellington, it has become a de facto urban entity.
Stellenbosch
The Western Cape province of South Africa has the university of Stellenbosch. The hilly nature reserves of Jonkershoek and Simonsberg as well as the vineyards of the Cape Winelands surround it. The town’s streets are dotted with cafes, shops, and art galleries under the shady oaks. The Village Museum’s historic homes and gardens, as well as Cape Dutch architecture, provide insight into South Africa’s Dutch colonial past.
Franschhoek
A village in South Africa’s Western Cape, Franschhoek features Cape Dutch architecture and centuries-old vineyards. At Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve, trails go through fields of flowers and wildlife to overlooks of Franschhoek Valley. The nearby monument and Huguenot Memorial Museum pay tribute to the region’s 17th- and 18th-century French settlers. The Franschhoek Motor Museum features classic cars amidst farmland in the mountains.
Somerset West
South Africa’s Western Cape has the town of Somerset West. It is a suburb in the Helderberg region, some 50 kilometres east of Cape Town’s central city area, and borders Strand. From an organizational and administrative standpoint, it is a part of the City of Cape Town metropolitan municipality.
Best Accommodations In Hermanus
Pat’s Place Guesthouse
A crucial aspect of your vacation or work trip is where you stay. Pat’s Place goes above and beyond to make sure visitors have a memorable experience. Owner/manager Suzanne Clark and the team are discretely present to extend a warm welcome and take care of your requirements. Being a local, Suzanne can recommend the top places to go and things to do that will leave you with fond memories for years to come.
Hermanus Surf House
A short distance from the town centre and the sea cliff route where one may see whales and other marine life is Hermanus Surf House, a guest house that provides lodging. They serve a complimentary light breakfast and filter coffee to our guests (muesli, yoghurt, toast and jams). Guests may also use the fully equipped kitchen between 18h00 and 21h00.
The guest home offers a chill-out room and an outdoor BBQ. Through our business, we can arrange events like whale boat cruises, shark cage diving, marine big 5 boat rides, and sea kayaking. The lodging can also be reached via shuttle.
Waterfront 14
In the centre of Hermanus, in the Waterfront complex, is Waterfront 14, a self-catering vacation apartment with a sea view that is close to the town’s restaurants, shops, and art galleries. One bedroom with a Queen-size bed and a partial sea view is available at the Hermanus Accommodation at Waterfront 14. There is a shower, toilet, and sink in the private bathroom.
A refrigerator, an induction plate, a kettle, a toaster, and a coffee maker are included in the open kitchen’s equipment. There is a dining space, and there is a smart TV with Netflix in the living room. There is Wi-Fi.
The complex offers an inviting rooftop swimming pool with panoramic views. Off-street parking is available.
Anchor’s Rest
When you arrive at Anchor’s Rest, you’ll be greeted with a smile, the aroma of the sea, the sound of distant waves, and the energizing champagne air. We are just 150 meters from the renowned cliff trails with the best land-based whale viewing in the world, located in the charming seaside community of Hermanus, 120 kilometres from Cape Town.
You can take the breathtaking cliff pathways from Anchor’s Rest to the town centre for 1.8 kilometres while taking in the seasonal whale sightings. It is situated between the village’s historic Old Harbour and the New Harbour and eateries (within 10 minutes’ walking distance).
Their accommodation was carefully planned to offer guests either the option of Bed and Breakfast or Self Catering or a bit of both! All the units are designed so as to offer guests maximum privacy, but there are staff around if you need them.
Cliff Cottage B&B
Come unwind at Cliff Cottage, located directly across from the renowned Hermanus cliff trails and some of the world’s best land-based whale viewing. With TV, wireless internet, off-street parking, spacious double or twin bedrooms, family suites, and Cape Dutch-style bathrooms, we also provide delicious home-cooked or continental breakfasts that are served in the garden (weather permitting).
The Cape Dutch style en-suite double, twin and family bedrooms boast mountain views and have garden entrances, satellite TV and off-street parking.
Things To DO In Hermanus
Kite Surfing
In the protected lagoons of the Klein River and Bot River, the Walkerbay Kite School provides thrilling kiteboarding instruction. In the summer, the water is comfortably warm and only waist deep. Although winds can change, they are often on the lighter side, making them ideal for novices. However, lessons cannot be taught when the wind is more than 20 knots strong.
All necessary gear, including a wetsuit, kites, lines, a harness, impact jackets, and hard hats, is provided by the school. There are three sections to the course, with each component taking no less than two hours to complete. This is vital to convey all the necessary safety precautions and to prepare you for your first trip without assistance. This indicates that it will take you at least 6 hours of practice before you can securely kiteboard alone. However, the lessons are worthwhile because you will soon experience the thrill of swiftly exploring the lagoon’s shores.
Paintball
Many activity providers offer paintball, an action-packed sport that gives participants an adrenaline rush and an amazing experience. Use paint to destroy the rivals in vast, crowded locations while utilizing your environment to help you live to the end. Players are provided with clothing and equipment, however, it is advised that they wear old, comfortable clothes underneath (due to the paint and shrubbery).
Teams can select from a variety of games, each with a distinct objective, to make the experience even more fun. Players can choose to capture the opponent’s flag, ambush the enemy and return their flag to home base, or simply engage in a traditional shoot-em-up (or zombie round), in which everyone fires at each other and the last person standing wins.
Sand-boarding
Sandboarding is undoubtedly more suited to thrill seekers. This developing adventure sport in South Africa is a must-try for people looking for thrills while on vacation, even though racing down a sand dune at fast speeds on a tiny board could make some feel lightheaded.
You can choose to stand with two feet fastened onto a board and slide down a sand dune at high speeds, making it similar to snowboarding. However, you have the option to sit if you believe that this is a little over your ability. It is not advised to lie down lest you accidentally swallow any sand. Although it is not necessary to have any prior expertise to participate in this adventure activity, balance is crucial. With its picturesque beaches and tall sand dunes, Betty’s Bay makes the perfect site for sandboarding; it’s a great pastime for groups of friends or family members looking to spend time together.
Treetop Slides
For people of all ages, treetop sliding is fantastic. Your safety is of vital significance, thus experienced guides will help you put on a complete body harness. In order to enjoy the breathtaking environment and abundant bird life, tree top sliding includes moving from one platform to the next along a steel wire hung around 9 meters above the ground.
When biologists needed to study in remote, inaccessible rainforests without causing environmental disruption, they came up with this idea in Central America. They soon realized that this was an excellent sort of eco-tourism that gave travellers the chance to enjoy these amazing jungles without harming the ecosystem.
Shark Cage Diving
Shark cage diving is one of the world’s most exhilarating activities and is not recommended for the faint of heart. Its popularity has increased dramatically over the past few years. Shark Cage Dives are conducted in the Overberg from Gansbaai, which is located about 40 minutes outside of Hermanus. There are numerous tour companies that offer shark cage diving excursions, and reservations are required.
The activity is extremely safe, even though it is an adrenaline-pumping event, and if all safety precautions are performed and followed, it will be one of your best experiences. These dives are conducted in the lovely Kleinbaai Harbour and include full wetsuits and cages. Additionally, diving gear is provided, and a DVD documenting your experience is an option. Divers and non-divers alike can take pleasure in this fascinating journey on all voyages, provided the weather and tides cooperate. No prior diving knowledge is necessary.
Best Restaurants In Hermanus
After a long trip from Cape Town To Hermanus, you definitely need to cool down with some delicious cuisine in the fishing town. Here are some of the best restaurants you should consider.
La Pantola
La Pentola is a restaurant that was ahead of its time, delivering delicious food and subtle decor in the beach village of Hermanus.
In one of the best Hermanus restaurants, enjoy a fine meal while nearby whales can be seen. Enjoy fantastic meals and a funky vibe in a stylish setting that is enhanced by our award-winning wine list.
Dine at La Pentola on Marine Drive in Hermanus for a distinctive dining experience that is ideal for special occasions, offering a warm and cosy setting, stunning views, and a superb combination of South African and Mediterranean-style food. highly advisable.
Mogg’s Country Cookhouse
In the Hemel and Aarde valley, Mogg’s Country Cookhouse can be found on one of the many twisting, long roads. While dining at this family-run restaurant, enjoy the lovely views of the valley’s vineyards and gently undulating hills.
The starters on the Mogg’s menu reflect the bounty of the area, such as the smoked fish, sautéed prawns, and crème Fraiche phyllo basket with lime wasabi vinaigrette and the pear, gorgonzola, avocado, and walnut salad with grainy mustard and honey vinaigrette. Both the pork fillet medallions in gruyere and green peppercorn batter and the slow-roasted lamb shank with Moroccan-style demi-glaze sauce on potato mash with a drizzle of yoghurt and fresh mint sound great for the main course.
Just Pure Bistro
Just Pure Bistro is an upscale deli bistro serving high-quality breakfasts and lunches in the heart of Hermanus. The room’s trendy décor and large patio with a view of the ocean are two of its main attractions.
The food is delicious and complements the environment. Both a broad breakfast selection and high-quality coffee are always welcome. The pancetta that has been grilled with fresh rosemary is a joy, and the ingredients and presentation are both excellent. For those who want a taste of a cooked meal without making a commitment, the half-English breakfast option is ideal. Muesli, fruit and yoghurt, or anchovy toast are all healthy options.
Wander over to the Just Pure store and peruse the lovely collection of soaps, fragrances, bath salts, linen, kid’s clothes, and many items they have available.
Betty Blue Bistro
A peaceful beach town that comes alive over the holidays when the southern right and humpback whales make their graceful entrance into its waters, Hermanus is well-known for its whale viewing and water sports. The Betty Blue Bistro is located on Hermanus’ Main Street. The brilliant yellow decor and warm smiles of the owner and staff define this lively, roomy restaurant.
Betty Blue’s menu is diverse and owing to demand, Banting’s choices are receiving more attention. It includes a variety of creative morning dishes, like muesli health tarts, bacon dippers with flapjacks, cinnamon oats, and pulled pork pancakes. Of course, there are also some classic favourites, such as eggs Benedict and bacon and eggs. Tempting Banting-friendly options include chicken or beef burgers, as well as savoury pancakes with a range of fillings.