The call of the Whale Crier
in Hermanus, Western Cape, South Africa
Image by Amada44/Wikimedia
Hermanus is a quaint and
beautiful town in the Western Cape of South Africa and is popular as a
whale watching destination. The town also has beautiful beaches to enjoy,
great restaurants, museums and shopping experiences.
Whale watching in Hermanus
The popular seaside town is
one of the 12th best destinations for whale watching. Between July and
November each year, visitors flock to the town to see the Southern Right
Whales performing close to shore. Walker Bay in Hermanus is a mating and
breeding area for the huge mammals and they can be spotted from the shore
or from one of the boat tours in the area, where they are so close you
could almost touch them.
Of particular interest is
the Hermanus Whale Crier who announces the presence of the whales. It is
his job to let everyone know when the animals arrive in town and where
the whales are currently present. Pasika Noboba currently has the role
of Whale Crier and he ceremoniously blows his kelp horn to let the town
and its visitors know where to head. These days the whale crier is technologically
up to date as he also makes announcements on
social media.
Image unknown/Wikimedia
The beaches of Hermanus
Those looking for sun and sand
can head to Voëlklip Beach and Grotto Beach, which overlooks Walker
Bay and the whales. Grotto Beach has the honour of being a Blue Flag beach
for its cleanliness and services provided to visitors. Kammabaai Beach
is a less crowded beach, perfect for those who want peace and quiet while
getting the perfect sun tan during
your holiday to South Africa.
Museums in Hermanus
Of interest to visit is the
Old Harbour
Museum, located in the Old Harbour of Hermanus. The history of the
town is on display here, as the town was originally developed around the
Old Harbour in the 19th Century. Close by visitors can enjoy the original
fishermen’s village with its quaint buildings. The Whale House Museum is
also of interest and gives detailed information about the Southern Right
Whales, including a skeleton of a whale, suspended from the roof of the
museum.
Image Aliyahreflections/Wikimedia
Dining and shopping in Hermanus
There is an excellent range
of dining experiences to be had in Hermanus, with all types of cuisine
to be enjoyed. Bientang's Cave Restaurant & Wine Bar is an excellent
seafood restaurant which, as per the name, is set in a cave with a number
of terraces on the rocks outside, offering incredible views of the whales
as you enjoy your meal. Head to the New Harbour in town to enjoy a seafood
or sushi meal at the Harbour Rock Seagrill and Sushi Bar.
Enjoy some retail therapy
in the centre of Hermanus with its quaint shops, including the Book Cottage
and Quirk & Leopard Bookshop, which both have a great range of reading
material. Those interested in beautiful furniture can browse at Romantiques,
an antique furniture shop, while those looking for good music can head
to Funky Vibes. The town also has a number of weekly markets where bargains
can often be found.
Enjoy a winter visit to Hermanus
this year between July and November to view the fascinating whales and
have a relaxing and enjoyable holiday.
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