Summer, sun, sapphire blue waters and figs

By now everyone has settled in to the year, forgotten about the great, relaxing summer break of not so long ago and probably feeling the need for some time-out. With the hustle and bustle of city life we can become quite oblivious to the beauty that surrounds us.

Cape Town home. The most beautiful city in the world. So all it takes is a moment to focus on the crystal clear blue sky, fresh air and beautiful mountain to feel invigorated by the atmosphere. Such an energising moment recently embalmed my being; I packed a few essentials, donned my sunhat and hopped onto the car to hit the winding coastal road with the windows wound down, enjoying the fresh breeze and inhaling the aroma of the salty Indian Ocean.

An hour and a half later, I land up in the most quaint (not so little) town of Hermanus. Ah, I have arrived at the place of summer, sun and sapphire blue waters. This coastal town, with its country-like charm and endless galleries is a popular destination during the whale season but that is not all that Hermanus has to offer.

Walking down the towns’ centre the shopaholic in me is not at all attracted to the usual retail stores. I pop into the bait-and-tackle/ fish-and-chips shop and find a snorkel for half the price in the City and set off oceanward to explore and experience the freedom of the underwater world. The ocean seems a bit rough and I decide to go for an easy afternoon hike along the coastal path.

Upon my return the next day, with the waves still crashing a bit too vigorously to my liking, I discover a secluded tidal pool but have my doubts of seeing anything noteworthy. My word, was I wrong! Did I actually doubt that there will be little to ‘write home about’ in a tidal pool? Teeming schools of fish entertained and dodged me as they shared their world in the coldish water and wait…an octopus!

Back in town, more scenes of nature enthrall as paintings at the numerous galleries. I am inspired by the artistic expressions. From the moment I step into an interior decorating store, I am bedazzled by the selection handcrafted furniture, light fixtures and the most gorgeous chandeliers, a variety of vases and the selection of jewellery. What is even more delightful is sense of French charm which embraces one as one enters the coffee shop in the rear section of the store. Guests are entertained in an open area canopied the green leafy fruit bearing fig trees. Figs are my ultimate favourite fruit! I couldn’t help but giggle as a ripe fig or two dropped while I was enjoying the delicious Madeira cake and Rooibos tea while my eyes wandered over the beautifully decorations on the whitewashed corrugated iron sheet walls. My mention to the waitress about my love for figs didn’t go unnoticed as she presents me with a beautiful plate of them a few moments later. As I take the first bite into the soft, sweet, juicy fig, I say to myself: this is definitely the highlight of my visit…

Everything is within walking distance. The ocean, shops, picnic spots, classy yet affordable restaurants and even my favourite Woollies energy bar to replenish me after my hike. Now, for some ice-cream. Not to worry! Right on the beach road Gelato Mania is to be found. A chirpy colourful ice-cream parlour which almost gives you the urge to start licking the walls even before you tasted the silky smooth ice-cream flavours.

Whether you are an artist seeking inspiration, an executive in need of a mid-week breakaway, a home executive (Mom) who is exhausted running keeping up with everyone’s diary, a camper seeking a camping spot, a bird watcher or tourist seeking to enjoy & experience South Africa or just an ordinary person like me taking the time to enjoy and appreciate our beautiful diverse country, Hermanus is to place to be. Come and unwind, rewind and explore the summer, sun and sapphire blue waters of Hermanus.