Overberg Attractions

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Overberg Attractions

Scenic Day Drive Overberg

Day drive along the spectacular scenic coastal road to Kleinmond and back via Sir Lowry’s Pass

Places of interest

Stony Point and Harold Porter Botanical Garden

Description of the tour

Along this route you are in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom. It is characterized by high mountain peaks and deep river valleys and renowned for its diversity of fynbos plants. There are many seaside resorts e.g. Gordon’s Bay, Rooiels, Pringle Bay, Betty’s Bay and Kleinmond. Hangklip marks the eastern end of False Bay and was sometimes mistaken for Cape Point during bad weather conditions by the early navigators.

Stony Point:

This is at Betty’s Bay. Visitors can get close-up views of African penguin colony, one of only three mainland colonies in Africa. The first penguins started breeding here in 1982 and it has increased to over 100 pairs. Nearby are the remains of the Southern Cross Whaling Station, which operated between 1907 – 1928.

Harold Porter Botanical Garden:

The beautiful garden focuses on the conservation and cultivation of the flora of the winter rainfall area. It lies against a backdrop of high mountains and has two beautiful forested kloofs with waterfalls, Disa Gorge and Leopard’s Kloof. The walk to the waterfall in Disa Gorge is highly recommended especially during December to January when the red disas are in bloom. It has a tearoom where light lunches can be obtained.

Website: http://www.sanbi.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&Itemid=69&id=137

Southernmost Tip of Africa Day Tour

Southernmost Tip of Africa Day Tour

On this day trip you will enjoy a wide range of scenery and vegetation types e.g. apple orchards, pine plantations and hills of wheat. On the return trip the road passes fynbos, with its beautiful flowers in Spring, also the towering mountain cliffs on the one side and the other side, the rocky shoreline. The main purpose of this trip is Cape Agulhas, the tip of the African continent.

Drive along the N2, past Somerset West over Sir Lowry’s Pass, stopping to have a look at the splendid view of False Bay and Table Mountain in the distance. Continue passing the apple producing areas of Grabouw and Elgin. Climb the Houw Hoek Pass, the scenery changes to wheat and canola plantations. At harvest time the hills present a beautiful patchwork of green and bright yellow patches and the occasional field of lavender. If you are interested in antique junk stop at the Dassiesfontein Farm Stall where one can also buy homemade jam. Take the R316 to Bredasdorp and pass through the town of Napier and turn onto the R319 to Struisbaai and l’Agulhas.

On the return trip take the road to Elim Die Dam, (the fynbos road) onto Baardskeerdersbos and then to Gansbaai and Stanford. Head for Hermanus and follow the road until the sign to Kleinmond, Betty’s Bay, Rooiels, Gordons Bay and back to the N2.

Cape Agulhas:

This is the geographical southern tip of the African continent, the official dividing point between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The Portuguese, called the point Cabo das Agulhas (Cape Needle) when they rounded this point over 500 years ago. This is one of the few places in the world where a magnetic compass pointed not only to the magnetic north pole, but to the true north as well. This point is marked by a cairn and plaque about 1km west of the lighthouse.

The coast here is called the Shipwreck Coast. Because of the severe winter storms and huge waves of up to 30m high (100 ft) there have been many shipwrecks. Approximately 114 shipwrecks along the coastline for 50km on either side of Cape Agulhas have been recorded.

Cape Agulhas Lighthouse:

Dangers of this treacherous coastline prompted the construction of the Agulhas lighthouse in 1849. It was built from limestone in the style of the ancient Pharos lighthouse at Alexandria, Egypt. It was replaced by an aluminium tower in 1968 after 127 years of service, but was restored and recommissioned in 1988. The old lighthouse now serves as a museum since 1994. One can follow the development of lighthouses through the ages and the history of the Cape Agulhas Lighthouse. Exhibits of lenses, lanterns, gas burners and foghorns are on display.

Agulhas National Park:

This was proclaimed in 1999, to protect the rich diversity of fynbos plant species on the Agulhas Plain, the unique system of wetlands and the fauna of this area.

Struisbaai:

Originally a fishing village with its thatched fisherman’s cottages built 90 years ago. The main beach is 14km long, the longest continuous stretch of sandy beach in S.A.

Bredasdorp:

Visit the Shipwreck Museum with exhibits of figureheads, cannons, coins, porcelain, ships’ bells and other artefacts recovered from vessels wrecked along the coast. The Coach House contains an interesting collection of Cape carts, a Scotch cart, an old fire engine etc. The Old Parsonage is a typical strandveld house, furnished with articles salvaged along the coast.

Elim:

This is a picturesque mission village, founded in 1824, with rows of whitewashed thatched houses. The entire village has been declared a national monument. The gabled, thatched church has an 18th century clock acquired in 1914 from a church in Herenhut, Germany. The only monument to commemorate the freeing of slaves in 1838 can be found here. The old water mill dates back to 1838 and is the biggest wooden water wheel in the country. Stop and have tea at the Old Mill Tea Room and sample mosbolletries and biscuits baked with stone-ground flour from the mill.

Gansbaai:

This is a busy fishing village which has two harbours. Popular with angling, diving and boating enthusiasts. It is the centre of several shark-viewing and cage-diving operations.

Hermanus:

It is the heart of the Whale Route with its 12km long Cliff Path which offers one of the best whale-watching spots.

Website: http://www.sanparks.org/parks/agulhas/

Arniston Attractions

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De Mond Nature Reserve

De Mond Nature Reserve is situated 26 km south-east of Bredasdorp on the south-western coast. of South Africa The De Mond Nature Reserve nestles at the mouth of the Heuningnes River, between the coastal villages of Arniston and Struisbaai. The De Mond Nature Reserve is 954 ha in size, and comprises former sections of the farms Zoetendals Vallei and Bushy Park. It was proclaimed a nature reserve in 1986 and is managed together with De Hoop Nature Reserve.

Prior to De Mond's status as a nature reserve, the naturally shifting sand dunes were artificially stabilised with indigenous vegetation by the Department of Forestry adding to the already varied flora of the area. The vegetation found here is mainly coastal, ranging from the dune milkwood forests to the teeming saltmarshes which sustain the estuarine environment. More inland, dune fynbos borders the limestone fynbos heathlands, making for a fascinating composition of vegetation.

De Mond supports several species of small mammals such as grysbok, steenbok and grey duiker. The only notable predator is the caracal, which is seldom seen. Reptiles and amphibians are well represented. The De Mond Nature Reserve has a rich and varied birdlife, making it ideal for birdwatching. The reserve is particularly important for the protection of breeding colonies of the threatened Damara which is South Africa's most endangered coastal bird and Caspian terns. The rare African black oystercatcher, South Africa's second most threatened coastal bird, also favours the reserve because human disturbance is minimal. Blue cranes, also rare and endangered, occasionally breed in this area.

Website: http://www.capenature.org.za/reserves.htm?reserve=De+Mond+Nature+Reserve

Whale watching - Arniston

Whales come to the Arniston coastline in South Africa each year from April to January to calve and mate. The giants of the ocean are mostly seen in September and October. Individual whales may spend up to four months on the coast.

The following whales have been recorded in the region of Arniston:
- Bryde's whale
- Long-finned pilot whale
- Minke whale
- Pygmy right whale
- Pygmy sperm whale
- Southern right whale
- True's beaked whale

Website: http://www.arniston.co.za/

Cape Agulhas Attractions

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Agulhas National Park

The Agulhas National Park is a windswept, ruggedly beautiful coastal plain which has more than 8500 species of flowering plants. This part of the South African coastline supports a rich marine and intertidal life, with breeding sites of rare birds such as the African black oystercatcher.

South Africa's second oldest working lighthouse was built here in 1848 in the Pharaoh style. Visitors can browse the fascinating lighthouse museum and curio shop, or stop for a cup of tea. The hill behind the lighthouse provides a panoramic view of where the two oceans meet, ships pass and Southern Right whales play in spring and early summer. The actual Southernmost Tip of Africa is 1 km west of the lighthouse and is marked by a simple cairn.

The small village of Suiderstrand is located to the west of the southernmost tip, on the Atlantic ocean side. Bordered by the Agulhas National Park on the one side and the ocean on the other, this village is a nature lover’s paradise. Coastal walks and hikes through the National Park will reward the visitor with stunning views, pristine beaches, pebble bays, rock pools, and a marine lagoon.

Geographical extremes capture the imagination at the Agulhas National Park. From ancient mariners to contemporary mankind, the quest has always been to reach the poles, sail around the tips of continents, conquer the highest peaks and dive to the ultimate depths. This is the same spirit that captivated the explorers of yesteryear who braved one of the most challenging sea crossings of their time: the Atlantic-Indian Ocean crossing via Cape Agulhas. As the southern-most tip of Africa, it has always had its mysteries and adventure, and still captures the imagination of contemporary explorers.

Amongst the mysteries associated with this region, is the legendary 'Cape of Storms' which wrecked many ships en route to the east via Cape Agulhas. Ancient people also left their mark on the landscape. For example, archaeological middens remind contemporary man of a successful hunter-gathering culture that was in harmony with its natural environment; and a cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years to when the Khoi-khoi people trapped fish using ingeniously constructed tidal traps. This windswept, ruggedly beautiful coastal plain at the southern-most tip of Africa, with its rich cultural and natural heritage, has recently been proclaimed as the Agulhas National Park.

5 things to seek while at the Agulhas National Park:

The Southern Tip of Africa
Southern Right Whale
African Black Oystercatcher
Damara Tern
Cape Platana

Website: http://www.agulhas.org.za/main/page_agulhas_park.html

De Hoop Nature Reserve

The farm De Hoop was bought by the Cape Provincial Administration in 1956. Various additions were made to this initial area, until the current reserve size of 36000ha was reached with the addition of the Cape Infanta and Melkkamer portions in 1991. De Hoop Marine Reserve was declared in 1986 extending for 3 nautical miles off the coast and covering an area of 23000ha.

There are seven major habitat types in De Hoop Nature reserve, namely:
- rocky coast
- sandy beaches
- sand dunes
- coastal plain
- limestone hills
- De Hoop vlei
- Potberg Mountain range.

The main vegetation type in the De Hoop Nature Reserve is lowland fynbos, which occurs on the limestone formations underlying most of the reserve. This vegetation is particularly threatened by development, and the De Hoop nature reserve is one of the few nature reserves where it is conserved. Mountain fynbos occurs on the sandstones of the Potberg mountain range in the north-eastern parts of the reserve. Fynbos is internationally important on account of the high number of plant species - there are 1500 in the reserve alone.

Rare or endangered animal species in the reserve include the Bontebok, Cape Mountain Zebra and the Cape Vulture. There are 86 mammal, 260 bird, 14 amphibian and 50 reptile species on De Hoop. The reserve conserves a major wetland, De Hoop Vlei, which is home to nearly 100 aquatic bird species. It is of international importance for migratory birds and has been declared a Ramsar site. The entire coast in this region of South Africa is a marine reserve - one of the largest in Africa. It is visited by the Southern Right whale in the winter and spring. The rare African Black Oystercatcher is found along the coast throughout the year. At least 250 species of marine fish occur in the coastal waters.

Website: http://www.capenature.org.za/reserves.htm?reserve=De+Hoop+Nature+Reserve

Gansbaai Attractions

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Dangerpoint Lighthouse

Forty three years before the establishment of the lighthouse at Danger Point on 1 January 1895, the British troopship H.M. "Birkenhead" carrying troops and their families to Port Elizabeth was wrecked on a reef off Danger Point on 26 February 1852.

A white commemorative plaque recording this tragic event has been set into the white octagonal lighthouse tower. The light and the tower now warns mariners of the dangerous reefs in this area.

Website: http://www.overberg.co.za/content/view/138/28/

De Kelders

De Kelders is also rich in other archeological sites, with shell middens occurring in several areas along the coast.

Website: http://www.southafrica.net/sat/content/en/za/home

Dyer Island

The Dyer Island Group, a few km south of Gansbaai in South Africa, is home to about 50000 cape fur seals. Dyer Island was first named Isla da Fera by the Portuguese seafarers during the 15th century. Isla da Fera: Island of wild animals. The name is still applicable. The Island is home to many African penguins and other sea birds. The neighbouring island, Geyser Rock, is fully filled with over 50'000 Cape fur seals.

The island got its present name from its first permanent resident Samson Dyer, a black American, who settled on Dyer Island in 1806 and who made a living by clubbing seals for an American company.
Dyer Island and Geyser Rock is now a nature reserve managed by Cape Nature and visitors are not allowed on the Island. Still, boat-tours from Kleinbaai take you very close along the shore and Cape fur seals will escort the boat in Shark Alley, named after the Great white sharks that cruise in these waters, looking for their favourite food: Cape fur seals.

Equivalent number of African penguins and uncountable other sea-birds can be found here. Hundreds of Great White Sharks have made this area off the coast their home. From Kleinbaai, which is a small natural harbour on the Dangerpoint Peninsula, boats leave every morning to take travellers out to show them the Great White Sharks.

A typical white shark diving excursion takes between 3-5 hours, depending on the weather, sea conditions and shark behaviour. Trips depart from Kleinbaai harbour and anchor site depends on the sea conditions, weather and previous shark sightings. There is the option of surface viewing or entering the water in a secure cage. Those wishing to cage dive do not have to be scuba qualified.

Website: http://www.africa-adventure.org/d/dyerisland/index.html

Dyer Island Cruises

The ultimate Whale Watching Experience is offered by 'Dyer Island Cruises' who invites visitors on an unforgettable journey to the domain of the Southern Right whales with their accomplished skipper and trained guides

Contact details for Dyer Island Cruises:

Mr Wilfred Chivell, PO Box 78, Gansbaai, 7220
Email: bookings@whalewatchsa.com

Website: http://www.dyer-island-cruises.co.za/

Fynbos Road

The Fynbos Road Meander / Fynbos Floral Kingdom of South Africa

The Fynbos Road meanders through a unique botanical area where more than 9 fynbos vegetation types and over 5 non-fynbos-vegetation types can be explored. Of the thousands of plant species, many are endemic to the area of the Fynbos Road with some plant species localised to a single mountain as the only place in the world where they can be found.

Connecting the Whale-Coast to the Southern-most tip of Africa The "Fynbos Road" is an initiative of the Agulhas Biodiversity Project and runs for about 100 km from the birding location of Stanford to the Agulhas National Park, the home of all the animal species that roamed the Agulhas Plains until a little over 100 years ago.

The Fynbos Road circumvents urban areas and meanders through peaceful rural lands and the pristine nature of one of the richest areas of the Cape Floral Kingdom, in itself the region with the richest plant-life on earth. Directly from the Fynbos Road one has access to more than 10 reserves and conservancies (each larger than 100 hectares) that are open to the public, either for day-visits (hikes, horse trails, 4x4 routes) or for residential guests (lodges, cottages and farmhouses). Via its several side roads, the Fynbos Road connects to yet another 10 reserves and fynbos-estates.

1. Birds, Dune Fynbos & Coastal scrub - from Stanford to Grootbos
From Stanford drive in the direction of Gansbaai
Mosaic Farm - bird sanctuary
Fairhill - Lodge & Coastal reserve
Bellavista - Lodge
Walker Bay Reserve (Cape Nature)
Grootbos - Lodge & Nature Reserve

2. Indigenous Forest & Mountain Fynbos - from Grootbos to Uilenes
From the road from Stanford to Gansbaai, turn left at Grootbos
Baviaansfonteyn - retreat
Flower Valley - flower farm and sustainable harvesting pilot project
Platbos - unique remnant of ancient afro-montane forest of the "Knysna-type"
Mount Dyer 4x4 - guided nature 4x4 trails
Uilenes - accommodation & tractor rides

3. Mountain-catchment & -fynbos and Limestone Fynbos -From Uilenes to Baardskeerdersbos
At the T-junction at the end of the road, turn left into the road from Franskraal to Elim Kraaiboschdam
Lamond Wine estate
Farm 215 - nature retreat & fynbos reserve
African Horse Company - guided nature horse trails
Heidehof - flower-farm, guided fynbos walks focusing on the medicinal value of fynbos
Tierfonteyn - flower farm & reserve
Baardskeerdersbos -rural village, bar & restaurant

4. Agricultural lands & Elim Fynbos - from Baardskeerdersbos to Elim
After Baardskeerdersbos continue on the same road to Elim (on the side track to Pearly Beach & Wolvengat: Klein Paradijs - lodge Waterford 4 x4 trails)
Sandberg Fynbos Reserve & Guided Hikes
Geelkop Nature Reserve
Elim Community Protected Lands
Flower harvesting
Elim, moravion mission village; village-tours, heritage centre

5. Wetlands, Lowland & Limestone Fynbos - from Elim via Soetendalsvlei to Cape Agulhas
At Elim, drive in the direction of Bredasdorp; a few km later though, ignore the sign "Bredasdorp" and simply carry on past Soetendalsvlei to Cape Agulhas
Soetendals - wine estate
Soetendalsvlei (2nd largest fresh water-body in South Africa)
Cape Agulhas National Park
Agulhas Light House

Website: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fynbos

Klipgat Caves

Klipgat Cave, just outside of De Kelders in the Walker Bay Nature Reserve, offers a dramatic view over the ocean and the Walker Bay Reserve through its two "windows" and one small "portal".

Early remains have been found in only three South African sites and in the Middle East. Klipgat cave is one of the most important cultural assets in the Western Cape. The remains found in the cave date back to between 65'000 and 85'000 years. At this time the ocean was at a distance of around 5 km from the cave. Excavations in Klipgat Cave between 1969 and 1995 produced stone artifacts, preserved bone tools and human remains left by Middle Stone Age people between 65'000 and 85'000 years ago. The excavations also produced remains of some of the earliest sheep bones in the Western Cape, indicating that sheep-keeping Quena pastoralists from the Later Stone Age were already living in the region 2000 years ago.

The Klipgat cave is open to the public and is accessed through the Walker Bay Nature Reserve entrance at the end of De Kelders. From the gate, numerous steps take the visitor down to the protected cove. From there one has to climb a bit to get to the entrance of the cave. In the cave one can see the sand bags that have been used to seal the excavations. At the moment the cave is only accessible for fit people, but this will change in the near future when the cave and its surroundings will be developed to both protect this cultural asset and allow smoother access for visitors.

The Klipgat Cave in the Walker Bay Reserve is managed by Cape Nature Conservation. After a period of neglect, funding has now been made available to upgrade the facilities and protect the site from further damage. The construction of board-walks will provide access without further damage to the cave due to visitor impact. An interpretation and information centre will be built to facilitate an awareness, understanding and interest in our indigenous cultural heritage. The centre will offer opportunities for environmental education for youth. School groups will be able to use this effectively for their environmental projects.

Website: http://www.ama-krokka.co.za/klipgat-cave-gansbaai.htm

Shark Cage Diving - Gansbaai

The specially designed shark diving cage is very secure, and floats with part of the cage out of the water. Divers are never more than one meter below the surface and air is supplied from a cylinder on the boat so no bulky scuba equipment is needed. All of the necessary diving equipment is supplied, and all shark diving operators have to comply with strict safety rules set out by the South African government.

The best time of year to view great white sharks is from June to September. During this time 4 or 5 sharks are usually encountered in a day, but as many as 18 have been seen. This high season corresponds with the South African winter, and winter storms can prevent boats from launching so schedule a few additional days into your itinerary.

The White Shark Projects are the most successful White Shark Organization in the World. White Shark Projects offers:

- White Shark diving and viewing

- A Student educational programme with international lecture tours, an international membership programme and community development projects

Email: bookings@whitesharkprojects.co.za

Website: http://www.sharkcagediving.co.za/

Strandveld Museum

The Strandveld Museum is a small privately owned museum at the cliffs of Franskraal. The Strandveld Museum is a little gem and housed in the original home of one of the Headman that used to work on Dyer Island. The museum has the largest collection of relics of the HMT Birkenhead, that wrecked off Danger Point and several other historical items. The owners are local historians and marvellous story tellers who gladly take you on a trip through time.

Website: http://overberginfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=241%3Astrandveld-museum-franskraal&Itemid=400062

Hermanus Attractions

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Arabella Country Estate

The number one golf course in the Western Cape as per Golf Digest Awards, 2008, the Arabella Golf course stretches through rolling fairways, deceptive bunkers and challenging water traps. It is a truly magnificent golf course set on the banks of the Bot River Lagoon and fringed by indigenous fynbos.

The championship course layout was designed and built in 1999 by celebrated South African golf course architect, Peter Matkovich. This classic parkland course provides spectacular views across the Bot River lagoon and across the Kogelberg mountain range.

The pristine fairways at the Arabella Golf Course are kikuyu, while the greens, which frequently receive high praise from professionals in the game are dominant bent. The fame of the course has in recent years spread internationally, with the Nelson Mandela Invitational having been held at the Arabella Golf Course over several years. This pro-celebrity tournament hosted by Gary Player hosted the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Samuel L Jackson, Ronan Keating, Ernie Els, Retief Goosen, Tim Clark, Lee Westwood and Sam Torrance. These and other top names have made a valuable contribution to Gary Player’s initiative to raise funds for the Nelson Mandela Children’s Foundation and the Player Foundation.

Website: http://www.arabellagolfclub.co.za

Arabella Golf Course

Awards/Accolades of the Arabella Golf Course:

Golf Digest Awards 2000
Won Golf Digest “Best New Golf Course in South Africa” Award 2008
Golf Digest - # 1 Golf Course in the Western Cape
Golf Digest - # 4 Golf Course in South Africa
Golf Digest - # 60 Golf Course in the World outside the USA
Golf Digest - # 1 Golf Estate in South Africa
IAGTO Award - (International Association of Golf Tour Operators)
Best Golf Resort in the ‘Rest of the World’ Category (Rest of the World being outside of the USA and Europe)
Compleat Golfer Awards
# 6 Golf Course in South Africa
5-Star Golf Experience Award
World Travel Awards
Arabella Western Cape Hotel & Spa - Family Resort of the Year / World Luxury Hotel Awards
2008 Finalist – Luxury Golf Resort

ARABELLA COUNTRY ESTATE
Beautiful, challenging, award-winning, naturally spectacular golf course
Tel: 028 284 0000 / 028 284 0000
Fax: 028 284 9385

Website: http://www.arabellagolfclub.co.za

Arabella Health & Beauty Spa

The exclusive Arabella Spa at the Arabella Western Cape Hotel & Spa, which is situated between Hermanus and Kleinmond, combines traditional and modern therapies, artfully combining Far Eastern and Western knowledge. The result is a unique synthesis which regenerates and restores, leaving guests with a feeling of deep relaxation and balance.

The spa facilities at the Arabella Western Cape Hotel & Spa include a heated indoor hydropool, heated outdoor lappool, tipedarium, sauna, steam room and fitness centre.

The following facilities at the luxurious Arabella Spa are complimentary to guests of the Arabella Western Cape Hotel and Spa health resort:

- Sauna: guests can also indulge in an 85°C sauna with high heat and low humidity

- Steam Room: the steam room, at 45°C and offering low heat with high humidity, is highly beneficial for the respiratory system

- Indoor heated Hydro Pool: the hydro pool complex is a non-nudity section with a 12-year-old age restriction

- Hydrotherapy circuit with eight jets that massage the body as you move through the circuit, spending two minutes at each point on the circuit

- The five Hydro seats offer a hydrotherapy experience in a seated position

- Four bubble beds provide a gentler underwater massage in a prone position

- Fitness Centre: fully equipped fitness centre

The Arabella Western Cape Hotel and Spa is home to the world-first, sensory African Rainforest Experience, which comprises of therapeutic showers, scrubs, steam treatments, African colours and local fragrances to stimulate all senses.

The fifteen steps included in The African Rainforest Experience are:

1. Exfoliation Room
Receive a salt scrub on heated slab by a therapist.
10 minutes
To clear old, rough and dry skin and to make the skin more receptive to the treatment to come. Lying on a heated slab, the body is kept warm as the scrub is applied.

2. Ante Room
Guest to take a hot shower (or to be showered down by therapist). Afterwards guests ladle themselves 5 minutes
The hot shower warms the body up, relaxes the muscles and opens the pores of the skin. The cold-water splash then improves circulation. In order to be effective, these steps should not be rushed. They give the body a signal to start to detoxify.

3. Eucalyptus Steam Room experience (42ºC)
10 minutes
The steam, in combination with eucalyptus, opens the pores and benefits the respiratory system. Plus, eucalyptus is very effective against headaches, fatigue and stress. The steam room further encourages relaxation and detoxification.

4. Cold Shower
Therapist or guest to ladle themselves from the cold water fountain in the Anteroom.
3 minutes
After the high temperatures of the steam room, it is important to cool the body down. This further stimulates the lymphatic system to clear toxins.

5. Rest on mosaic slabs underneath heated aromatherapy towel
5 minutes
Oils like lemongrass, lemon, orange, lavender, peppermint, ginger encourage relaxation and help to induce feelings of calm and serenity.

6. Aromatherapy Sauna (75ºC)
Guest to select preferred Aromatherapy oil to be infused inside the sauna.
5 minutes
The aroma you choose is very important. Trust your instincts and go for the oil that appeals most to you at that moment. The therapist will also advise you on the effects of specific oils. The heat in the sauna helps increase the benefits of the oil - helping the body detoxify faster. The pores open and the body starts to perspire, flushing away toxins.

7. Waterfall Shower
Cool to cold shower or cold water hose
2 minutes
For skin cleansing and to close the pores. Again lymphatic drainage is stimulated and circulation enhanced, helping to detox.

8. Dry heat Sauna (75ºC)
5 minutes
The dry sauna causes more perspiring so the body is further cleansed. Muscles are relaxed by the heat.

9. Cold Mountain Mist
5 minutes
Soft cold mist falls lightly down on the skin and cools the body down.

10. Dry Relaxation Beds
Rest for 15 minutes
Whilst relaxing, drink one glass of water
It is very important to drink a lot of fluids in situations as you are perspiring a great deal. This ensures that you detox but not dehydrate. Rest is also important when the circulation is stimulated. This is where the body calms down, refreshes and relaxes.

11. Reflexology Footbaths with pebbles
Alternate 3 times: 3 minutes warm water (38ºC)
1-minute cold water (as cold as possible)12 minutes
The warm water regulates the body temperature. Through heat, the water will activate circulation, giving a relaxed and calm feeling.

12. Rainforest Shower Beds (30-40ºC)
3 minutes soft rain lying on back
3 minutes pulsating rain lying on stomach
6 minutes
Pamper and relax under a cascade of warm water. This treatment is for the soul. Remember our bodies are over 90% water. A relaxed mind helps bring your heart rate down.
Rest Area – 30 minutes

13. Drying and application of soothing and rehydrating moisturizers
10 minutes
After the hot sauna and using the showers, the skin needs its moisture replenished with soft, hydrating cream.

14. Relaxation experience in the Candle Room
Whilst rehydrating with a glass of water.
30 minutes
Your body’s detox system has been activated but you will be feeling very, very relaxed. Fall asleep; allow the body to calm and awake feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

15. African Tea Ceremony
10 minutes
Time for Tea. The ingredients are important. A rooiboos /chamomile mix is relaxing. A Rooiboos/ peppermint mix is detoxifying and cleansing.
Total time - 130 minutes.

Website: http://www.south-african-hotels.com

Grotto Beach

The Grotto Beach in Hermanus stretches for kilometers, making it ideal for those wanting to take a long walk. A restaurant, playpark and facilities make this a favorite amongst the holiday makers. Braai facilities and ample parking can also be found at Grotto Beach.

Website: http://www.southafrica.net

Hermanus Golf Club

In 2006, the Hermanus Golf Course had undergone a major overhaul with the introduction of nine new holes, based around a new real estate component, and the charming and gentle layout of the past has been replaced with modern classically designed holes, that have added much to both the visual and challenging aspects of the course, without losing any sense of its former tradition. This tradition, created by original designer Bob Grimsdell, which was based around the gentle mountain surrounds, sea views and country hospitality, and though those ingredients remain, this golfing venue has truly reached a new level. This is not surprising, as South Africa's foremost golf course architect, Peter Matkovich, was retained to infuse his special brand of flair and experience to maximise the potential on this scenic and gentle landscape. The flair is immediately noticeable in the use of new water and rocky features, as well as the introduction of visually pleasant grassy mounds adding definition and shape to the holes.

Superb new greens and bunkering have been introduced to the course that has been considerably lengthened. The upgrade and redesign are in conjunction with the introduction of real estate pockets that have been cleverly interspersed into this environment without impacting on the original charm of the golfing experience. The new residents on the estate and regular visitors will tell the first time visitor that the popularity of the area has in recent years been augmented by international visitors, who have discovered that Hermanus has the best land-based whale-watching in the world. The Hermanus Whale Festival, held annually, has become one of the Cape's most attended events and the Southern Right whales are pleased to entertain us while they return to calve in this delightful part of the Cape.

Type:Parkland
Holes:27
Club Shop:Yes
Tuition:Yes
Hire Facilities: Clubs, trolleys, drive carts, caddies
Catering: Bar, restaurant, halfway house
Practice Facilities: Driving range, putting and chipping greens

HERMANUS GOLF CLUB
The golfing paradise at the tip of Africa
Tel: 028 312 1954/5
Fax: 028 312 2333
E-mail: golfclub@hermanus.co.za
www.hgc.co.za

Website: http://www.hgc.co.za/

Kammabaai Beach

The Kammabaai Beach in Hermanus, Western Province, is the ideal beach for families with small children. Parking can be found near the beach. Plenty of white sand and shallow water make this a favorite beach for the whole family.

Website: http://www.anythinghermanus.co.za/beaches/detail.asp?ID=5

Langbaai Beach

Langbaai / Long Bay Beach in Hermanus, South Africa, is a favorite beach for those seeking a bit of peace and privacy. Nestled between two rocky outcrops, Langbaai Beach is tiny in comparison to the other beaches. It offers good swimming and beautiful white sand. Limited parking is available.

Website: http://www.2oceansvibe.com/2009/01/19/hermanus-sea-rescue-drama-at-langbaai/

Onrus Beach

The beach at Onrus in Hermanus is ideal for families. Flanked by a lagoon it provides an ideal playground for children. A shallow river flows from the lagoon in which little children can enjoy an adventurous time.

Onrus Beach can be reached from the Sandbaai and Onrus sides and is in close proximity to Vermont, Onrus and Sandbaai. The Milkwood Restaurant overlooks Onrus Beach in Hermanus and has been sited as the best seafood restaurant in Hermanus. The Onrus beach is also a favorite place for local surfers.

Website: http://www.hermanus.co.za/beaches/default.asp

Village Square Shopping Centre and Piazza

Known as 'the heart of Hermanus', the Village Square Shopping Centre and Piazza is located on the Waterfront in the central business district of Hermanus, overlooking Walker Bay and the Old harbour. Visitors find many shops including small boutiques as well as restaurants where delicious meals and refreshments are served.

Website: http://www.village-square.co.za/

Voelklip Beach

The Voelklip Beach in Hermanus, South Africa, is a neat beach often used as a playground for young visitors. Great lawns, white sands and good facilities complement the beauty of this setting. Parking can be a problem during the holidays. Refreshments can be found during the holidays. This is also a good spot for surfers who can always be found in the breakers.

Website: http://www.anythinghermanus.co.za/beaches/detail.asp?ID=4

Walker Bay Nature Reserve

The Walker Bay Nature Reserve in the Cape Overberg extends along a stretch of coast between the town of De Kelders and the magnificent Hermanus Lagoon. The Walker Bay Nature Reserve lies just 3 kilometres from the town of Gansbaai, east of Hermanus on the Danger Point Peninsula. One can get into the reserve at Stanford, via Mierkom, De Kelders (Die Plaat) and Uilkraalsmond.

Website: http://www.southafrica.net/sat/content/en/us/product-detail?oid=162825&sn=Detail&pid=19273&Walker-Bay-Nature-Reserve

Walker Bay Wine Route

There are several well known wine estates in and around Hermanus. The Hemel-en-Aarde (heaven and earth) Valley, which is located inland from Hermanus, has become part of a popular wine farm meander and is definitely worth a visit.

Grapes grown in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley are influenced by the cold Atlantic Ocean and the temperate conditions and clayey soil produce wines similar to those of Northern France. The Hemel-en-Aarde valley stretches 6km between Hermanus to Caledon and is surrounded and sheltered by mountains on all sides - Galpin Peak and the Glen Varloch range to the south and the Babylonstoring mountain range to the north - which trap cloud cover and retain moisture throughout the valley.

The Onrust River winds its way through the valley where one of the youngest but fastest growing wine routes in South Africa is already establishing a name with its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay cultivars. The Bouchard Finlayson estate, Whalehaven Wines, Hamilton Russel Vineyards, Cape Bay and Sumaridge are open to the public for wine tastings. .

Website: http://www.southafrica.net/sat/content/en/us/full-article?oid=20763&sn=Detail&pid=1

Whale Crier

The Whale Crier's kelp horn was first heard in Hermanus in August 1992. Pieter Claasen, then an employee of the Old Harbour, was the first Whale Crier. One of the highlights of his time as Whale Crier was surely his trip to Topsham in the UK where he was guest of honour at the annual Town Crier's competition. He opened the proceedings with a call on his famous kelp horn and then shouted his greetings from Hermanus in true Town Crier fashion. He received resounding applause. Later in the afternoon he led the colourful procession of Town Criers, floats from far and wide and a large crowd of onlookers down the Main Street of Topsham. Pieter retired as Whale Crier in 1998 and his position as Whale Crier has been taken over by Wilson Salakusana.

In the months of June through November, when Southern Right whales come to frolic, mate and calve in the warm waters of the bay, it is his mission to alert hundreds of shore-based whale watchers to the whereabouts of whales. He does this by blowing his kelp horn. The board which the whale crier in Hermanus wears tells whalewatchers how to interpret the code which will lead them to the spots where the whales have been sighted.

Website: http://www.hermanus.com/whale-crier.mv

Whale watching

Hermarnus and Whale watching

Whale Watching is one of the most popular attractions in Hermarnus. Spectacular coastal scenery and mountain fynbos put on a fine show, but the stars of this South African holiday route are the southern right whales that, between June and November each year, swap their chilly Antarctic feeding grounds for our warmer, protected bays where they mate, calve, breach and lobtail, sometimes just metres from the shore.

It’s hard to imagine 60 tons of solid matter frolicking, but that’s certainly what it looks like. Of course, experts have various theories, but we think they do it... well, because they can.

This South African holiday route hugs the coast through the most crowded parts of this giant whale nursery, where in season you can see up to 20 at play at a time. We weren’t always this lucky – whale hunters took a devastating toll on numbers from the 1800s onwards, and as whales with calves were the main targets, the population plummeted.

Thankfully the southern right became a protected species in 1935 and now the whales are back, with more and more. Coming close up with a Southern Right whale in its natural habitat is an exhilarating experience, and you certainly get a thrill from boat-based whale watching. Whales are generally friendly, curious creatures, and will often surface 5m from the boat if you prefer to choose that option - offering an unforgettable close encounter. The best time to go out is early morning, as the winds do pick up during the day, and the afternoon rides tend to be much more choppy and rough.

The Best time to go and what route to take:

The time from June to November is prime whale season, with calving in August and September, and whale numbers peaking in October. Spring in September and October turns the countryside into a spectacular kaleidoscope of floral colour.

Watch aquabatic displays by southern rights who frolic along the coast from Gordon's Bay to Hermanus, Arniston and L'Agulhas, the southernmost tip of the African continent

Other whale watching options: Land based Whale Watching

If your sea-legs really aren't that strong, then watching whales from the shoreline or from the cliff tops is still a fantastic experience.

There are plenty of excellent viewpoints along the recognized whale watching routes, and your guest house or the local Tourist Information Office will be able to advise on the best places to go.

The whales often come extremely close to the shoreline - within one kilometer - so binoculars are not always necessary, though they are a useful thing to have with you so you can get a closer look.

The other advantage is that you will be able to take better pictures, as you will be more steady! Many of the whales watching routes have interpretative signboards along the way, with useful information about the whales.

Whale Festival in Hermanus

The Hermanus Whale Festival, which is the only Enviro-Arts festival in South Africa, is held annually to celebrate the return of the Southern Right whales to the waters of Walker Bay, the magnificent environment and the arrival of Spring. This famous festival in Hermanus attracts more than 100 000 visitors every year.

For more detailed information about the Whale Festival in Hermanus, South Africa, please visit: http://www.whalefestival.co.za/

Website: http://www.whalefestival.co.za/

Kleinmond Attractions

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Kleinmond Main Beach

The long sandy beach in Kleinmond invites for wonderful strolls along the beach, fishing, swimming, whale watching, canoeing in the lagoon and sunbathing.

Website: http://www.overberg.co.za/content/view/23/27/

Stanford Attractions

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Birkenhead Brewery

In Stanford, South Africa, an exciting Brewery Tour is offered at the Birkenhead Brewery.

As the first brewing estate in the Southern Hemisphere, Birkenhead is a small but growing micro brewery situated in the Western Cape of South Africa.

At the Birkenhead Country Estate, there is much on offer for the visitor:
exceptional beer, the country estate, the brewery and restaurant as well as the pub where one can come and enjoy the delicious food and freshly brewed beer.

Birkenhead Brewery Address: R326 Main Road, Stanford, Cape Overberg
Opening hours: Brewery Tours from Wednesday to Friday at 11h00 and 15h00.

Website: http://www.birkenhead.co.za

Guided Horse Trails in Stanford

Visitors in Stanford have the unique opportunity to enjoy horse-riding in the beautiful Overberg Region of South Africa.

Rides ranging from 1 hour to three days are on offer. Being based in Stanford, gives access to the Kleinrivier mountains, the river, the beautiful coastline, dune and fynbos eco-systems. The Horses used are South African crossbreeds being: Boerperd, Saddlers and Arabs. The nature of these horses allows for slow scenic beginner rides, extreme mountain peaking and overnight trail rides.

The trails are a journey on horseback along historical routes.

Walshacres Farm Trails:
1 hour through fynbos along the river
2 hrs access Kleinriviersberg mountain
Half day - further and deeper into mountain

Mosaic Farm Trails:
3 - 4 hrs of beach, lagoon and whales
Full day includes lunch, beach, dunes, fynbos

Address: Stanford, Cape Overberg, Western Cape
Telephone:+27 (0)82 667-9232

Website: http://www.stanfordinfo.co.za/

Salmonsdam Nature Reserve

The Salmonsdam Nature Reserve is situated 20 kilometres east of the little village of Stanford, in the hills of the Perdeberg Mountains. The Salmonsdam Nature Reserve is well known as both a hikers' and birders' delight mainly because of the particularly attractive mountain landscape.

Website: http://www.capenature.co.za/reserves.htm?reserve=Salmonsdam+Nature+Reserve

Stanford's Cove

Stanford's Cove has two important historical aspects, namely the graves of early inhabitants and the fig tree planted by the first fishermen who lived here.

Website: http://travelingluck.com/Africa/South%20Africa/Western%20Cape/_3361083_Stanford%27s%20Cove.html#local_map

Swellendam Attractions

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Bontebok National Park

Sheltered by the Langeberg Mountains and bordered to the south by the Breede River, the Bontebok National Park in South Africa provides a refuge not only for the bontebok, but also for other species such as the Cape mountain zebra, red hartebeest and grey rhebok.

Website: http://www.sanparks.org/parks/bontebok/

Bontebok National Park

The Bontebok National Park is the smallest national park in South Africa but has the highest density of rare and endangered bird life, fynbos species and animal life. This Western Cape Nature Reserve in South Africa was established at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains in order to protect the Bontebok from extinction. It also contains indigenous plant life found nowhere else in the world. Visitors in the Bontebok National Park have access to the magnificent Breede River where fishing, canoeing and swimming can be enjoyed.

Thanks to the conservation efforts of Bontebok National Park, the species of antelope after which it is named, has been brought back from the brink to roam freely in sustainable numbers. Bontebok numbers have increased from a mere 17 in the park to around 3 000 world wide.

This region between the Langeberg Mountains and the Breede River is also home to around 200 bird species including Stanley's Bustard, Blue Crane and Secretary Bird. Visitors can also see Cape Mountain Zebra, Red Hartebeest and Grey Rhebok amongst other wildlife.

Guests in this Western Cape Nature Reserve in South Africa can enjoy outdoor activities and picturesque views of the mountain or take a short drive into Swellendam. This historic Overberg town has all modern amenities, a great choice of restaurants and there are interesting things to do in the vicinity.

Website: http://www.sanparks.org/parks/bontebok/

Drostdy Museum

The Drostdy Estate was built by the Dutch East India Company in 1747 to serve as residence and official headquarters for the Landdrost. Soon after a gaol, a house for the secretary, a mill and various outbuildings were erected.

The first Landdrost to be appointed to this district was Johannes Theophilus Rhenius and he was assisted by a board of burger heemraden and subordinates like secretary and a gaoler as well as many slaves. From 1827 the Drostdy was occupied by the civil commissioner who, with the resident magistrate, replaced the board of Landdrost and heemraden when they were abolished by the British colonial government.

In 1846 the government sold the Drostdy Estate and the property was subdivided. In 1855 the former Drostdy was bought by the Steyn family and it remained in the hands of this family until 1939 when it was bought by the government of the Union of South Africa for the purpose of establishing a museum.

Website: http://www.drostdymuseum.com

Marloth Nature Reserve

The Marloth Nature Reserve near Swellendam is the ideal location for a South African remake of the July Andrews classic “Sound of Music”. The Marloth Nature Reserve, which is managed by Cape Nature Conservation, is situated 3km from the historic town of Swellendam, about three hours drive from Cape Town on the N2. The scenic splendour of the Marloth Nature Reserve offers fynbos-clad mountains, patches of indigenous forests and magnificent vistas.

Website: http://www.capenature.org.za/reserves.htm?reserve=Marloth+Nature+Reserve

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