Encompassing mountains, beaches and wine farms, the Whale Coast really does have something for everyone. Clarence Drive, which starts in Gordon’s Bay, is known as one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world. From the rustic beauty of Rooi Els and Pringle Bay, to the floral splendor of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, to the whales that frolic near Hermanus and the rolling vineyards of the breathtaking Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, there’s plenty to savour along the Whale Coast.
Things to do in Hermanus & Onrus:
- Have lunch at Ficks – an alfresco (outdoor) restaurant right on the ocean, with wrap-around decks overlooking the historical ‘Ficks Pool’.
- Spend a night at the African Pride Arabella Hotel and spoil yourself with a spa treatment or two, or perhaps a round of golf at one of SA’s top-ranked courses.
- Hermanus is considered one of the top whale-watching spots in the world, and the majestic mammals can be spotted in the bay from September when they come close to the shore to breed. Siever’s Point is one of the best vantage points, but ask one of the locals to point out some other viewing spots.
- Go horse riding along the white beaches of the Walker Bay Conservancy, also an excellent whale-watching destination.
- Enjoy magnificent views of Walker Bay and the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley by taking a guided walk through the Fernkloof Nature Reserve.
- Take a wine tour through the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, which boasts more than 16 award-winning wine farms.
“The once-small fisherman village known around the world for whale watching has developed into a sought-after destination, catering not only to the holiday-maker but offering everything one needs to make it your home.” – Annien Borg, Branch Manager: Durbanville & surrounds, Hermanus, Onrus | Regional Manager Boland and Overberg.
Things to do in Rooi Els, Pringle Bay, Betty’s Bay & Kleinmond
- All the villages have safe swimming beaches ideal for families, and for surfing, kayaking and kite surfing.
- Enjoy the village vibe in Pringle Bay at the Saturday market, one of the local restaurants, or a scenic hike up to Pringle Peak.
- One of only 3 mainland-based colonies in the country, Stony PointPenguin Colony in Betty’s Bay, is the perfect place to keep up close and personal with these adorable aquatic birds.
- Meander through the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden in Betty’s Bay, where you can see the red disa in its natural habitat and our national flower, the king protea.
- Play a round of golf, go horse riding on the beach, or enjoy a seafood lunch at the Harbour Road in Kleinmond.
“The villages of Rooi Els, Pringle Bay, Bettys Bay & Kleinmond are nestled between majestic mountains and white sandy beaches in a World Heritage site only 1hr from Cape Town.” – Nicola Lloyd, Whale Coast Area Manager
Have you fallen in love with the area? You can make your stay permanent by contacting one of our specialist Agents today.
