A memorable stay in heavenly Hermanus

With its magnificent cliff path, whale watching, and a wide range of accommodation, the coastal town of Hermanus on the Garden Route offers something special for everyone, says Brian Berkman.

- Brian Berkman.

Long regarded as a place to convalesce on account of its ‘champagne air’, Hermanus in the Western Cape offers many other unique and special attractions.

That said, walking along the well-maintained cliff path, which extends along the profile of this seaside town and passes fynbos, sharp rocks and plunging verticals into the Atlantic, is a tonic in itself. And, if you’re lucky to be there during whale season, typically between June and November, you will also have some of the best land-based whale watching available on the planet.

There is something wonderfully democratic about the Hermanus cliff path; it brings you closer to the whales than any hotel does and it costs nothing to walk and sit there. There is also a generous investment in public art and sculpture linked to FynArts, the town’s annual festival held in June.

Accommodation offerings range from the lavish to quite easily affordable, with even backpacking and budget accommodation available.

MARINE HOTEL

The Marine Hotel, a Liz McGrath property, is amongst the finest accommodation options in town. It is set in a magnificently restored historic building and offers luxurious rooms and superb cuisine.

If you can, book one of the first-floor rooms; the couches and beds are strategically placed to give you a perfect view of Walker Bay, the area where the whales are most active. For elegant pampering, this hotel is hard to beat.

NORFOLK GUEST HOUSE