Hermanus and its surrounds have become a sought-after property destination. Part of Hermanus's attraction is Cape Town and its international airport are less than a two-hour drive away. Besides the many permanent residents working in and around Hermanus, the area is also popular for second or holiday homes.
The Cape Overberg region in the province of the Western Cape comprises some of the most scenic and popular parts of South Africa. Vermont, Onrus and Sandbaai located on the Southern coast of the Western Cape, are part of Hermanus. It is overlooked by the beautiful and impressive mountains of the Cape Overberg with its spectacular fynbos that is endemic to this country. No matter where in the greater Overberg region one stays, the views are almost always breath-taking, and access to the wonders of the South African landscape are only a short drive or walk away.
Whales frequent the coastline between about October and January, causing a flock of tourists to visit the area. The whales include the Southern Right, Humpback and occasionally also killer whales, which stage wonderfully dramatic performances for those on the shore and on whale watching tours. Every year, between 60 and 100 of these marine giants make their way past the coast; spy hopping, breaching and lob-tailing playfully, which gives the impression that they are as interested in their audience as we are of them.
Sandbaai:
Sandbaai is one of the newer, most developed suburbs in the Greater Hermanus area. Sandbaai lies between Onrusrivier to the west, Hermanus itself to the east and at the entrance to the "Hemel-en-Aarde" Valley. This places it in a most advantageous position. It offers a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere where neighbours still have relationships with each other. Sandbaai has approximately 5 000 residents, and is governed as ward 7 of the Overstrand Local Municipality. In Sandbaai, there is a positively eclectic mix of houses that range from holiday homes to more permanent residences. The demographics is also a well balanced mix from families with young children to retired residence. The much acclaimed Curro Private School has recently opened its doors in Sandbaai and new developments near this school are thriving. Although the Hermanus business centre, local public schools and shops are approximately 7 km away, the new Whale Coast Mall was recently completed in Sandbaai. The new mall boasts a range of shops, coffee shops, restaurants and even a cinema. Sandbaai has a great family beach ideal for angling, sun bathing, building sandcastles, walking, and the best spots for sea shell viewing and collecting. It comes dotted with rock pools, exciting little coves and popular snorkeling spots. Just behind Sandbaai, the "Hemel-en-Aarde" village has a large variety of shops, farm stalls, galleries, studios, jewellers and restaurants. The Hemel & Aarde wine route is a popular way to spend a day or more. Sandbaai's position, sandwiched between the sea and the slopes of the Onrust Mountains, between Onrus River and Hermanus, places it in one of the most beautiful parts of the world.
First-time homeowners will find excellent investment opportunities here and can choose between affordable holiday homes and stunning beachfront properties. Sandbaai is definitely an area where you would want to raise your kids and/or spend quality time with family and friends.
Onrus:
Onrusrivier, or Onrus, showcases the peaceful ambience and holiday vibe of a small town. For many years, the picturesque holiday town of Onrus has been first on many people's lists when holiday time comes around. Onrus is the ideal holiday spot for visitors that want to enjoy a real South African beach holiday. These ocean waters are chilly, making them refreshing in the hot summer months. Onrus Beach, which is adjacent to a warm, calm lagoon, is ideally suited to family outings, where small children can play in the calmer waters of the lagoon, and older children and adults can brave the waves. Onrus beach is overlooked by the renowned restaurant, the Milkwood. It is also a favourite spot for local surfers.
In crayfish season fishermen take to the water from the small slip-way in almost anything that floats and divers glide through the kelp forests in search of Cape Rock lobsters. Beaches and pathways connect Onrus to the neighbouring suburbs of Sandbaai and Vermont and nature lovers will be well rewarded with surrounding coastal fynbos and secluded coves.
People who want to indulge in shopping and fine dining will not be disappointed when visiting Onrus. There are several markets, malls, specialty stores, boutiques and art galleries to explore. There are some excellent restaurants and coffee shops in the area and the local eateries range from child-friendly diners to upmarket establishments, and everything in-between. Obviously the Whale Coast Mall and multitude of shops and businesses in and around Hermanus are also close by.
There have always been many artists and writers that have been drawn to the Onrus and stayed here. In the 50's it was the bohemian escape of the creative avant-garde, many of whom made it their home in later years. There were a host of well-known artists like Cecil Higgs, Marjorie Wallace, Gregoire Boonzaaier and Audrey Fourie who either lived or spent time spent time in this beautiful seaside resort. A few of the well-known writers that also stayed in Onrus includes Wilbur Smith, Jack Cope, Andre Brink, Jan Rabie and Uys Krige. The ambiance of Onrus is still regarded as inspirational and newer artists have also made their way here. These include Hennie Niemann Snr and Jnr, Richard Smith and Angie Key.
Onrus has retained its old-world charm despite a growth boom over the past 10 years. Several property developments, like retirement villages, security villages and housing complexes have been erected and continue to do so. The giant Milkwood trees, that still form a canopy over century-old fishermen's cottages and the old Mission House Gallery, adds to the charm of the area. Residents and visitors stroll to the beach along pathways that have been added for pedestrian safety and the languid atmosphere of summer holidays prevail. There are many permanent residents working in and around Hermanus.
Properties in Onrus can offer either beautiful mountain or spectacular ocean views and some are perched on the edge of the tranquil Onrus Lagoon. Whether you want a new permanent home, a cosy beach cottage, a spacious holiday home or a retirement home, you will find something that suits you. Onrus well worth visiting and a pleasure to live in.
Vermont:
Vermont is located adjacent to Onrusrivier and is nestled at the foot the Kleinrivier Mountain range bordering the Hoek van der Berg nature reserve. It is just 10 minutes from the centre of Hermanus. Vermont serves mainly as a holiday village, its residents making their way here primarily during holiday seasons, long weekends and off course, during the famous Whale Festival. There are, however, also many permanent residents.
The Nature Reserve and "green belts" of Vermont help to maintain the inherent tranquillity and endemic fynbos and bird life in the area. A beautiful coastal path stretches from neighbouring Onrus along the coastline becoming what is now known as the Vermont Trail, interspersed with tidal pools and ending at the sand dunes of Brekvis (Breakfast) Bay, one of the most undisturbed beaches in the area. The Vermont Salt Pan, an ecologically sensitive seasonal body of water that teems with bird-life, plays host to a large population of flamingos that come here to breed.
