A Taste of Hermanus
Get to know Hermanus and breathe its Champagne Air as we take you off the beaten track and introduce you to hidden gems and firm favourites to give you a TASTE OF HERMANUS.
About the Tour
- Africa’s first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy is a hub of innovation with a food culture based on sustainability and authenticity of ingredients and one of the most exciting (and beautiful!) wine areas in South Africa.
- In 3 hours you’ll visit 6 cafés and/or restaurants, carefully chosen to showcase Hermanus’s culinary character and the best it has to offer through 8 curated tastings.
- Obtain a unique perspective by exploring Hermanus on foot, a great way to orientate yourself and along the way discover those hidden gems worth a return visit.
- One of the most loved destinations in the world for good reason. Admire the natural beauty and vibrant art scene. Meet the makers, the fundi’s, the personalities and learn about the influences and interesting facts all contributing to the culinary riches of the area.
- A foodie’s delight and feast for the senses, you’ll leave satiated in every way.
- Experience Hermanus with a local and of course Eat like a Local!
Our walking food tour starts at 10:30am Monday to Saturday.
Restrooms are available during the experience.
Water, hot beverages and wine included.
Up to 10 tastings at 6 different stops
Dietary and allergy requirements by prior arrangement only. This tour is not suitable for vegans.
Experiences happen rain, shine or snow (the last being unlikely). Please dress accordingly.
Tours consist of small groups of no more than 8 guests per expert guide.
Suitable for most fitness levels. The total walking distance is approximately 1.5km. Please advise of any limitations.
Suitable for ages 12+. Younger children by prior arrangement.
What to Expect
Our unique walking tour will take you around Hermanus, from the back streets to the main drag, through hidden alleys, art galleries and along the famous cliff path. We’ll stop at 6 cafés/restaurants, tasting a variety of food and drink, each selected for its superb quality, authenticity of ingredients and representation of the culinary character of the area. We partner with artisans and small, local, owner/family run establishments who share our passion for food and guests will get to meet and interact with some.
We’ll meet at the Tourism Bureau from where we’ll go the outskirts of the CBD for a caffeine fix, but not in the usual way. Don’t expect a cappuccino! While tour stops may vary slightly due to the number of guests and dietary requirements, further stops usually include a café for some of the best patisserie this side of Paris, a biltong deli to taste variations of South Africa’s favourite snack, perlemoen (abalone) paired with local cold climate Sauvignon Blanc right on the water’s edge in the Old Harbour, uniquely flavoured locally made sorbet and a meat feast with accompaniments.
Along the way, we’ll show you points of interest and share insights into the local culture, history and food trends. Where do you buy the best bread, Italian delicacies, unique wines, quirky antiques and vintage clothing? We’ll show you!
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and the total walking distance is 1.5km. While the walking is mostly flat and not strenuous, there is one section that requires a slight climb.
A walking tour is a great way to get orientated when traveling and we recommend that our guests join us at the beginning of their holiday.
Hope to see you soon, and remember, come hungry!
Go off the beaten track
Let me guide you through the streets of Hermanus and show you where those in the know like to eat and drink.
High Street
Walk down the historic High Street with its quaint shops, murals and some of the 25 art galleries that make up the monthly Art Walk. Plenty of photo opportunities!
Cliff Path
The famous Cliff Path runs for 12 km along the coastline from the New Harbour to Grotto Beach. Look out for dassies and whales (June to December) as we walk along a section of the fynbos lined path, protected within the Fernkloof Nature Reserve.
Old Harbour
A national monument and heritage site and where we’ll taste abalone (or Perlemoen as it is locally known for its mother of pearl shell) in what used to be the old perlemoen nursery. On a clear day, you can see across the bay to Danger Point.
Taste of Hermanus Experience
Explore and experience Hermanus on a walking food tour packed with local flavour and culinary delights.
Approximately 3 hours Tour (incl. alcohol) R1600
Where to Meet
Meet your guide at the Hermanus Tourism Bureau, corner of Mitchell Street and Lord Roberts, Old Station Building. Covered parking with 24-hour security is available in the Station Mall next door on Mitchell Street.
Please arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled departure as tours depart on time.
Have questions? Here’s the most frequently asked.
Do we only walk around and sample food?
Absolutely not! Our tours combine architectural commentary, historical facts, local culture and culinary insight into a unique 4 hour experience. Imagine walking through the city eating our local artisans’ most delicious foods while learning about the neighbourhoods from real locals.
What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
Please be sure and let us know if you (or anyone in your group) has a dietary restriction (e.g. vegetarian, diabetic, allergy, etc.) when you purchase your tickets. As long as we know in advance, we can accommodate your needs. Vegetarians consuming dairy and gluten can be catered for on this tour.
Please note: We have an exciting plant-based experience that showcases the vegan food scene in Cape Town designed to accommodate vegan diets and curated with different partners. Please contact us for further information on how to enjoy this tour.
Do I need to purchase tickets in advance?
Yes, advance ticket purchase is required. To maximize your chances of getting the date, time, and number of tickets you prefer, please book well in advance.
What do we do in case of bad weather?
The tours are held rain, shine, or snow. In the event of inclement weather, we will be able to go inside many of the establishments on the tour. We advise that you check the weather conditions for your event and dress appropriately and bring an umbrella if necessary.
Is there parking available?
Limited paid street parking may be available close to the tour’s starting location. We recommend that you take a taxi or Uber to the starting location as the tour ends at a different location approximately 500m away.
Still have questions? Visit our FAQ page to submit your own