The Mandela Glasses and Noble Square are a few marvels in the town of Hermanus. lisa Ray also suggests zip lining for adventure freaks
The city of Cape Town in South Africa is not just about the spectacular Table mountain, the vibrant annual grand parade or the more popular Cape of Good Hope. It’s more than that. There are quieter, more beautiful places in and around the city which can not only heal the mind, calm the body and tickle your taste buds but which can also teach you a few things about art, the beauty of nature and adventure.
There are few things in Cape Town that offer limitless options for literally every type of traveller. But if you don’t want to be ‘just another brick in the wall,’ check out these eight things nestled in the city, specifically in the charming town of Hermanus, which the unobservant tourist will certainly miss. Hand-picked, tried and tested, these places are for the vacationers who want to travel off the beaten path.
Dutchies at Grotto beach: Grotto is the perfect beach and boasts of being the the best land-based whale-watching destination. But if your stomach is yearning for some glorious seafood, get yourself to Dutchies. On request, they will even drape you in nautical white and blue blanket while serving heavenly portions of local kingflip and calamari.
Watershed (shopping mall): located at the waterfront, Watershed in perhaps the best place to do some urbane shopping. Featuring works by local artisans, crafters and designers, it not only serves as a unique shopping destination but also provides treatments for the mind, body and soul. Get bowed down by shopping bags or unwind through a relaxing spa, it’s your choice.
Mandela Glasses (sculpture): Among one of the offbeat tributes to the great man, artist Michael Elion has created a pair of giant glasses made of stainless steel, peering over the sea to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for nearly three decades. Called Perceiving Freedom, the work is meant to make people reflect on Mandela’s time on the island. Don’t shy away from taking a selfie with the giant wayfarers.
Nobel Square: True to its name, Nobel Square plays host to South Africa’s four Nobel Peace laureates — chief Albert luthuli, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and former Presidents Nelson Mandela and FW de Klerk. The bronze statues are quite impressive and each one has a quote chosen by the laureate.
Harbour House Hotel: One of the best places to stay in Hermanus, Harbour House offers a stunning view of the sea. luxurious to a fault and decorated very tastefully, the hotel is the perfect place to rest for the intrepid traveller. Remember to have a photo session at the lookout Terrace which overlooks the ocean.
Hiking along the Cliff Path: The best (or worst) thing about this nature hike is that it will make you want not to go home. One will experience certain sense of overwhelming gratitude because of the beauty in front of them. Stunningly beautiful at every other step, the nature jumps on you and never lets go. Go on a walk and let the wanderlust in you go wild.
The old biscuit mill in Woodstock: It is an area revived by artists.The old biscuit mill is a converted mill with artists’ studios and espresso lab for great coffee. The Test Kitchen is one of Cape Town’s coolest restaurants.
Zip lining at Silvermist vineyard: Another must do when in South Africa is Africa’s longest zip line at Silvermist vineyard in Constantia. South Africa Forest Adventure is a company that can organise adventure seeking activities like zip lining and rafting. The new zip line is right next to the family that owns the rustic and organic winery, Silvermist.