Hermanus Weather creates Heaven on Earth
Category Area Focus
Experience one of the best climatic regions that the Cape has to offer. Weather of no harsh extremes, never blistering hot and never icy cold, the Mediterranean climate inspires nature to thrive.
Summers are warm and dry, and winter months are cooler and wet. The average temperature in summer peaks at 24°C, and winter at 19.5°C. Nestled between expansive mountains and the cool Atlantic Ocean, Hermanus is home to an abundance of Fynbos. For the outdoors enthusiast, there are many Fynbos-bedecked hiking routes.
The local Fernkloof Nature Reserve, though small in size in comparison to surrounding nature reserves, boasts 18% of the Cape Floral Kingdom. But Fynbos is not the only vegetation that flourishes here. The stable, cooler weather throughout the year creates the ideal environment for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay varietals to reach its full potential in flavour. These locally grown grapes are comparable in quality to those grown in Burgundy in France. Hermanus is perfectly situated, on the south coast of the Western Cape and the Cape ocean breeze creates a constant cooling effect on the land. This, along with the high elevation of wineries, results in the perfect conditions for more terroir sensitive wines, such as Pinot Noir, Shiraz and Sauvignon Blanc. Cooler temperatures allow for the slow, gradual ripening of grapes which creates richer flavour than what is found in grapes grown in regions with warmer climates.
Hermanus's aptly-named Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, which translates to Heaven-and-Earth, produces award-winning terroir sensitive wines. Beautiful boutique wineries line the Valley, with picturesque views, providing fine wine and dining experiences. The smaller scale of production ensures the utmost quality of the wines, which are internationally acclaimed and largely exported.
The entrance to the Hemel-en-Aarde is just off the R43, across from Sandbaai. Take a safari-style wine hopper tour and do tastings without the hassle of designating a responsible driver. Savour food and wine pairings while soaking up the sun with a gentle, cooling ocean breeze. Imagine having the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley right on your doorstep.
And if you've had enough of wining and dining, why not enjoy a blissful day at the beach? With stretches of white sand - Blue Flag status Grotto beach spans almost 18 km and is just one of a number of pristine beaches in this area, making Hermanus the perfect beach lifestyle destination. Just remember to pack all the essentials: flip-flops, hats, beach bats, sunnies and a zest for life. Bask in the sun, catch a wave, read a book; or have an ice cream, an ice-cold beer or cocktail at a beach bar.
Summer is in the air, and what better pairing goes with the sun than the great outdoors? Where else would you want to be? And even better, imagine residing in a destination where every day feels like a holiday!
Photograph Courtesy Erlo Brown Photography
Author: Ruché ten Have
