Encircling a fertile golf course, Fernkloof Estate is in the town of Hermanus in the Western Cape Province. It lies below the Fernkloof Nature Reserve and has some sea views of Walker Bay. Walker Bay is renowned for the high volumes of calving whales entering the bay between July and November.
Fernkloof Estate is 3kms east of Hermanus centre, and 3kms west of the swimming beaches at Voëlklip and Grotto Beach, all easily reached along the scenic cliff path.
The Fernkloof Nature Reserve above the suburb and along the slopes of the Kleinrivier Mountains is famous for the vast amount of coastal fynbos species found here.
If you plan a stay in the ever popular Hermanus, you will find Fernkloof Estate to be a convenient, prime location from which to discover the town’s attractions.
Top 8 reasons to visit Fernkloof Estate
1. The best options for up close views of the Southern Right, Bryde’s and Humpback whales are by sea kayak, the only craft allowed into Walker Bay or by boat out in open sea. Boat operators launch from the new harbour across town.
2. The Parks Board maintains the 60kms of trail in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve for hikers and walkers to enjoy the fauna and flora within the reserve. There are fine views of the bay on all paths.
3. The Hermanus Golf course at Fernkloof Estate is in the centre of an ecological corridor where sensitive wetlands have been restored and are continually maintained. This fine course has 27 fairways.
4. Stroll over to Hermanus to marvel at the view from one of the many sidewalk cafés. The town has a permanent market with traders selling African crafts, clothing and jewellery.
5.You could visit Grotto Beach, Hermanus’ Blue Flag beach for an enjoyable and refreshing swim. Those who prefer to stay off the sand can visit Voëlklip Beach which has a large grass embankment.
6. The Hermanus Whale Festival takes place annually during the whale season and is billed as the only eco-marine festival in South Africa. The festival is a lively event, well supported by visitors from Cape Town, Stellenbosch and surrounding towns. Lots of street parades, music and fantastic food.
7. Walk the 12kms cliff path to experience scenic ocean views, whales and seals in the bay, coastal birdlife and stop off at the old and the new harbours.
8. The Hermanuspietersfontein Food & Wine Market happens every Saturday at The Village. Free wine tastings are offered and farm-fresh vegetables, cured meats,cheeses and confectionary are on sale.
Transport
Fernkloof Estate is 110kms away from the Cape Town International Airport. Two car rental agencies are based in Hermanus, otherwise book a rental online. Use the Tuk Tuk Transporter service for location hopping in Hermanus. John’s Hermanus Taxis offer shuttle services between Hermanus, the Cape Town airport and Cape Town & Stellenbosch.
Did you know?
Hermanus was once a recuperation centre for well-to-do Europeans suffering respiratory diseases, the most common ailment being Tuberculosis. The Windsor Hotel, one of Hermanus’ landmark hotels, was formerly a TB Hospital.
The carnivorous Roridula plant at Fernkloof has a symbiotic relationship with the Assassin Bug. The plant traps insects on its sticky sap-covered leaves which the Assassin Bug devours. The bug’s excretions are then absorbed by the plant.
