Photo credit: Burgundy Restaurant
The Cape Overberg Region is one of South Africa’s most diverse, nature-rich parts.
With an abundance of wildlife, unique indigenous flora and an ever-changing landscape (which can be coastline one minute and fynbos-covered hills the next), the Cape Overberg Region offers so much for travellers and families to enjoy.
Have a Whale of a Time in the Overberg Region
One of the Overberg’s biggest highlights occurs annually when the whales, especially southern right whales, migrate to our shores during whale season (usually June to December) to mate and calve.
Whales can be spotted all along the 900-kilometre stretch of the Cape Whale Route (which extends from Strandfontein to Plettenberg Bay) – but they are most frequently sighted near Hermanus, the whale-watching capital of the world.
But there’s more to life than just whale watching in Hermanus – you can see them in many parts of the Overberg Region. Other great whale spotting areas include stunning Clarence Drive, De Kelders, Gansbaai, Arniston, De Hoop, Cape Agulhas and more.
In this guide, we share some of the best restaurants and accommodation to enjoy during whale season, either for a day trip or overnight stay:
Top Overberg Restaurants
Photo credit: Burgundy Restaurant
Whether land- or ocean-based, whale watching can be hungry and often slow, business. The whales can be more active at certain times of day and so why not grab an incredible meal while you wait?
Sometimes, when dining at an ocean-fronting eatery, you can even spot distant whales from your table!
We have selected our pick of restaurants in the Overberg Region. One is based in Hermanus itself, while the other two are based in Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. We’ve included our own excellent Field Kitchen, which is available to overnight guests.
Burgundy Restaurant, Hermanus
First up we have Burgundy Restaurant in Hermanus. This ocean-facing restaurant is the perfect place to grab a meal whilst whale watching in Hermanus. It enjoys lovely ocean views so, during whale watching season, keep a look out for the whales.
Beyond that, this seafront restaurant, situated a few metres from historic old harbour and on the edge of the bay, offers friendly, efficient service, a lovely setting and an array of great food options. In addition to their standard menu, they have a breakfast and evening menu.
If you visit during the day, enjoy a choice of fresh salads, wraps, sandwiches, soups, small plates, pasta, seafood, something sweet or even a Burgundy cocktail. They also have an array of drinks, including a great wine list.
There is both cosy indoor- and outdoor-seating, although, if you are keen to soak up the town atmosphere and hopefully, spot some whales as you dine, we recommend sitting outdoors!
Photo credit: Burgundy Restaurant
Die Plaaskombuis, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
While you won’t see whales from this farm-style restaurant, it offers its own unique country experience!
Die Plaaskombuis offers the perfect blend of farm-style hospitality, great wines and traditional cuisine in a truly picturesque, endlessly charming setting.
Their food is all prepared using a truly South African approach, one that pays homage to the way farm food used to be made and served with love and warmth.
In addition to their beautiful, family-friendly restaurant, which offers delightful seating, outdoor play areas and its own gorgeous farm stall, Die Plaaskombuis also doubles as a venue for memorable functions and fun kiddies’ parties.
Menu highlights include hearty breakfasts, wraps, burgers, traditional dishes and more. They also have a Sunday lunch menu.
Photo credit: Die Plaaskombuis
The Field Kitchen, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
Our own Field Kitchen is ideal for those seeking a unique culinary experience. In fact, it is the only restaurant open at night in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley – but you do have to book an overnight stay with us to enjoy it.
As South Africa’s first truly mobile fine dining restaurant, our focus is on locally sourced, fresh ingredients, which we use to create delicious fine dining fare. Food is complemented by great wines, non-alcoholic beverages or even locally distilled spirits.
Our beautiful mobile structure has seating inside and out, as well as gorgeous floor-to-ceiling glass walls.
After a scrumptious meal, head back to your luxurious tent, which comes fully equipped with every glamping comfort, including a king-sized bed, standing fan, drinks trolley and en-suite bathroom.
For more information on our luxury tented accommodation, immersive nature experiences (which include fun dam-based activities, biking trails, a guided walking trail and great kids’ activities too) or The Field Kitchen, please see here.
Photo credit: Canvas Collective Africa