Things to do in Hermanus

Photo credit: Fernkloof Nature Reserve

Canvas Collective Africa is situated close to several dreamy Overberg towns – among them, beautiful Hermanus, South Africa’s very own whale-watching capital.

This special Overberg town is famous for its whales (which, along with the masses, flock to its shores seasonally), incredible wines and delicious cuisine.

Yet, in this post, we show that there is so much more to Hermanus – including a healthy mix of nature-filled adventure, town activities and outdoor fun for all ages to enjoy!

Photo credit: Fernkloof Nature Reserve

Explore Fernkloof Nature Reserve

One of the most beloved natural spaces near Hermanus is the pristine Fernkloof Nature Reserve.

Covering some 18 square kilometres in the Kleinriver Mountains and ranging in altitude of 824 metres above sea level, Fernkloof commands an impressive chunk of the Overberg Region, with scenery second to none.

The reserve comprises some 0.002% of the Cape Floral Kingdom’s fynbos and plants, with more than 1250 plant species having been identified and collected in the reserve alone.

Beyond its flora, the reserve is also home to a rich variety of birdlife (some 100 species) and wildlife, including baboons, grey rhebok, porcupine, hares and more.

Here, visitors can enjoy immersing themselves in nature, thanks to the 60-kilometre network of walking trails that are suitable for all fitness levels.

Another highlight is the Fernkloof Visitors’ Centre, where visitors can admire different displays, including a permanent, yet changing floral display of flowers found within the reserve.

Beyond that, visitors can look forward to the Fernkloof gardens, its indigenous nursery, guided nature walks etc.

For more information on this nature lover’s paradise, please visit the Fernkloof website.

Enjoy MTB Trails around Hermanus and Hemel-en-Aarde

Combined, both Hermanus and nearby Hemel-en-Aarde offer a wonderful selection of MTB trails for cycling enthusiasts to enjoy.

Thanks to its quiet country spaces and beautiful, scenic surrounds, Hermanus is ideal for safe cycling. The newly created cycling track, situated along the main road, has made the town even more popular among cyclists.

The Fernkloof Nature Reserve also has a specially designated MTB trail, while the Hermanus Cycling Club usually meets on Saturdays for some added cycling fun.

The Hermanus Trail Network, meanwhile, offers four trails that span some 70 kilometres. For more information on this, please see here.

Beyond that, visitors to the Overberg Region can also enjoy a trick track that takes you off-road behind the cricket club.

Partake in Land- or Boat-based Whale Watching

No post on Hermanus is complete without mentioning the whales that visit its shores annually between June to December.

Even beyond the popular famous Hermanus Whale Festival – an annual highlight for the town – during whale season, visitors from far and wide descend upon this Overberg town, hoping to catch their own life-changing glimpse of these gentle giants.

If you are keen to join them, why not visit Hermanus during whale season for some land- or boat-based whale watching?

If you can, book a reputable boat-based tour (like Southern Right Charters) and enjoy seeing the whales from the water.

For more information on tour operators and pricing, please visit the Hermanus Tourism website.

If you can’t afford to book a boat-based tour, don’t worry because the whales often come close to shore, so you will still catch amazing sightings!

4) Enjoy a Horse Ride with Heaven and Earth Trails

Operating close to Hermanus in the majestic Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Heaven and Earth Trails provide amazing, guided horse rides for riders of all experience levels.

Trails take riders through fynbos-covered landscapes, orchards and vineyards, with special views and sightings, like wildflowers or incredible mountain backdrops.

Thanks to their capable, experienced horse-riding instructors, they can cater to both beginners and advanced riders alike, although riders must be between the ages of 7-65.

For more information on horse trails, private bookings and pricing, please visit their website.

 These are just some of the best things to do in Hermanus – which adventure-filled experience tickles your fancy?