Hermanus is a seaside town southeast of Cape Town, in South Africa’s Western Cape Province. Hermanus has become well known as a spectacular whale-watching destination, but has so much more to offer. Hermanus is the ideal location for unforgettable experiences and making memories.
A one hour and 40 minutes drive from Cape Town, Hermanus is easily reachable for day, weekend and longer stays. Come and enjoy unparalleled scenic beauty, relaxation and endless adventure options.
Hemel-en-Aarde is widely regarded as one of the most exciting wine areas in South Africa and one of the most beautiful. To many, it is the place for fine, restrained, classically styled South African Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Falling within the Walker Bay “District", It is comprised of three contiguous "Wine Wards" located behind the historic seaside resort town of Hermanus, surrounded by nature reserves, overlooking the cool South Atlantic Walker Bay. Hemel-en-Aarde means Heaven and Earth in old Dutch and Afrikaans and according to a visiting Moravian missionary in 1899, “Rightly has it got its name because so high are the hills which closely embrace the valley all round, that they seem to touch the sky and you cannot see anything but heaven and earth”.
Just 10 minutes from the centre of Hermanus, Bouchard Finlayson Winery is a slice of luxury, famed for its pinot noir and Missionvale chardonnay.
No trip to the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley would be complete without a visit to the vineyards of Creation Wines. Enjoy one of the estate’s unusual wine-and-food pairings, or choose something from the tantalising menu that changes weekly.
Visitors are always welcome to the La Vierge Wines for an excellent time. Their tasting room and restaurant provide the best views of the surrounding Hemel-en-Aarde.
Drive-up the Hemel-en-Aarde Pass leaving the busy beaches far below and slowly, slowly this pristine wine valley will envelop you in stillness and wonder.