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Expat Exchange - The Insider's Guide to Hermanus 2024
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The Insider's Guide to Hermanus

By Betsy Burlingame

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Summary: Living it Up in Hermanus: Your Insider's Guide to Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Discover the Best Recreational Activities, Connect with Friendly Locals, and Experience the Charm of the City.

Welcome to Hermanus! If you're planning to move to Hermanus, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Hermanus has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Hermanus.

Hermanus, is a picturesque seaside town known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant wildlife. One of the most popular attractions is the Hermanus Whale Watching, where visitors can witness the majestic Southern Right Whales in their natural habitat from June to November. The Cliff Path, stretching over 12 kilometers, offers breathtaking views of the ocean and is a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a morning jog. The Fernkloof Nature Reserve is a paradise for nature lovers, with over 60 kilometers of hiking trails and a diverse range of flora and fauna. The Old Harbour Museum provides a glimpse into the town's whaling history, while the Walker Bay Art Gallery showcases the works of local artists.

For wine enthusiasts, the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley is home to some of the country's finest vineyards, such as the Hamilton Russell Vineyards and the Bouchard Finlayson Winery. The Hermanus Country Market, held every Saturday, is a great place to sample local produce, homemade delicacies, and craft items. The Gearing's Point is a popular spot for sunset viewing, and the Voëlklip Beach and Grotto Beach are perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Hermanus is diverse and vibrant, offering a range of options from fine dining to casual eateries. One of the most popular restaurants is the Burgundy Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood dishes and stunning sea views. The Fisherman's Cottage, a charming restaurant set in a historic building, serves traditional South African cuisine. For a more upscale dining experience, the SeaFood at The Marine offers a menu of sophisticated seafood dishes, while the Pear Tree Bistro is renowned for its innovative cuisine and stylish decor.

For a night out, visitors can head to the Gecko Bar, a lively venue with live music and a wide selection of drinks. The Tapas Food & Wine Bar is a popular spot for its delicious small plates and extensive wine list. The Wine Glass, as the name suggests, is a must-visit for wine lovers, offering a selection of over 100 wines by the glass.

Recreational activities in Hermanus are largely centered around its natural beauty and abundant wildlife. Whale watching is a major draw, with companies like Southern Right Charters offering boat tours. For those who prefer land-based wildlife viewing, the Fernkloof Nature Reserve offers bird watching and nature walks. The Hermanus Golf Club is a popular spot for golfers, boasting a beautiful 27-hole course. Adventure seekers can try shark cage diving with companies like Marine Dynamics, or paragliding with SA Forest Adventures.

Water sports are also popular, with Walker Bay Adventures offering sea kayaking tours, and Pisces Divers Hermanus providing scuba diving experiences. For a more relaxed activity, visitors can enjoy horse riding along the beach with Heaven & Earth Trails, or take a scenic drive along the Hermanus Wine Route to explore the local vineyards.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Hermanus: Making the Most of Life and Connections

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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