Hermanus Area Profile

Hermanus at a glance

Over two-thirds of Hermanus’ population are permanent residents, unlike most coastal areas that tend towards communities of holiday houses and apartments.

In terms of houses for sale in Hermanus, the town offers everything ranging from quaint 1 bedroom Hermanus apartments to luxurious 4 and 5 bedroom seaside mansions.

Your average 3 bedroomed family houses in Hermanus can cost anywhere from R1, 200 000 to upward of R3, 000 000. The price range is very wide depending on the exact location and specification of the individual Hermanus property - which is not ideal should your budget be fairly rigid.

A unique feature of Hermanus properties is that many were custom-built with outstanding architectural design. Over the years, many older former Hermanus holiday houses have been upgraded and have evolved to become aesthetically stunning permanent residences.

The town also offers a wonderful variety of Hermanus apartments that also range from simple, 1 bedroom flats to beautiful ocean view seaside apartments. A modest 1 bedroom unit generally starts at around R 500 000, whereas a spacious, upmarket unit can fetch up to R 1, 700 000. Upmarket 2 and 3 bedroom apartments in Hermanus can fetch up to R 2, 500 000 and R 4, 000 000, respectively.

However, Hermanus housing offers a wide variety of property types and price ranges; for instance you may pick up a 2 bedroom apartment in Hermanus offering reasonable space at around R 400 000 and a 3 bedroom for R 650 000. TheHermanus apartments market is very active due to the demand for weekend breakaway holiday houses from Cape Town property investors.

The average price trend for Hermanus properties has proved to be favourable, generally exhibiting a steady and sustainable increase from 2007 to 2013, particularly with full title properties. The number of Hermanus real estate sales has been relatively stable since 2010, with 2013 sales already exceeding 2012 annual sales as per FNB Hermanus property reports. These reports also highlight that sales are usually closed within 3 to 4 months and majority of Hermanus houses for sale achieve about 90% of their required sales price.

Read more about other areas in Hermanus:

• Sandbaai
• Onrus
• Vermont

Hermanus History and General Info

South Africa’s Western Cape Province is home to some of the country’s most historic and charming towns. Hermanus is no exception with its undeniable natural beauty and scenic views.

Located a little over an hour’s drive southeast of Cape Town, Hermanus properties offer a wide variety of residential real estate, for even the most selective purchaser.

Historically, Hermanus Pieters ‘discovered’ the area in the 1820’s ,and found it to be ideal for summer grazing. It soon also became a haven for fishermen and a prime holiday destination for city-dwellers. Hermanus has also developed a cultural ambience that makes it a Bohemian mecca for writers and painters.

Those seeking an elegant retirement in an ideal tranquil setting, find property in Hermanus highly appealing. The thriving tourism industry has seen the establishment of many fine bed and breakfast establishments, perfect for short, comfortable stays.

The Neighbouring Hemel-En-Aarde Valley produces some of the finest wines, fruit, vegetables and herbs.

Hermanus real estate offers unequalled investment opportunities and attracts both local and foreign purchases seeking: permanent or retirement residency, a holiday-home, or Hermanus property wealth creation through appreciating housing values and associated businesses, such as Bed And Breakfasts and Guest Homes.

The town is also home to the stunning Fernkloof Estate which offers residents all the benefits of estate living.

Nestled at the foot of the mountains and close to a nature reserve, the estate offers a selection of houses to choose from. The estate was developed around the Hermanus Golf Club, established in 1907. Remodelled several times, this 27 hole championship course is widely regarded as one of the most scenic courses countrywide.

Hermanus Schooling and Education

Hermanus schools can cater for learners from pre-school level all the way through to high school. Schools in the area include Hermanus High School, Hermanus Primary School and the Hermanus Private School(Curro), to name a few.

Hermanus Shopping Facilities

The town offers a wide range of opportunities in terms of shopping and entertainment. You will find everything from quiet bookshops and bakeries to a number of supermarkets, cinemas, theatres and larger shopping centres such as the Checkers Centre at the old station building as well as Gateway Shopping Centre.

Hermanus Health and Safety

There are 3 fully equipped hospitals within 50 kilometres and at least 12 clinics, including modern private facilities. These include the Hermanus MEDI-CLINIC and the Provincial Hospital.

The excellent retirement housing developments in Hermanus usually have their own frail care centres and there are a large number of specialized emergency services, including mountain and sea rescue.

There are also 4 SAPS Police Stations within 20km.

Hermanus Leisure Activities

There are many leisure activities; most notable of these is whale-watching. Hermanus is considered the best, land-based, viewing site in the world and the Whale Festival is held in the month of September. Hermanus is internationally renowned for the best land-based whale watching on offer anywhere and folks from all parts of the world flock here to see the Southern Right whales that visit the area to calve between June and November.

Whale viewing trips on Walker Bay & for the stout hearted, shark cage diving, are really memorable experiences.

The eagerly anticipated annual Whale Festival held as the whales arrive in September turns Hermanus upside down and attracts 1000’s of visitors annually. September is also time for the Fernkloof Flower and Eco Fair, presenting visitors with the beautiful local flora.

The town is also home to many nature reserves and hiking trails including the Danie Miller and Helderberg Hiking Trails. Some of the most beautiful beaches in the world can be found here; for instance, the Onrus is one of the main surfing beaches.

Hermanus offers nearly every amenity of a large city, yet with the luxury of privacy and remarkable leisure at your doorstep.

Contact one of our Chas Everitt Hermanus estate agents on 028 316 2466 for expert insight and unparalleled experience when it comes to purchasing, selling or renting your Hermanus property.

Information on Surrounding Areas:

• Hemel en Aarde
• Vermont
• Onrus
• Sandbaai
• Chanteclair
• Berghof
• Bettys Bay