Markets, Local Cuisine, and Wineries

Hermanus earned UNESCO recognition as "The Gastronomic town of Africa" in 2019, featuring over 50 wine farms and 300 award-winning wines. The town combines vibrant markets with world-class dining and acclaimed wineries in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.

Hermanus Country Market and Weekend Market

The Hermanus Country Market operates every Saturday at the sports grounds, bringing together local vendors and artisans. Visitors find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local specialties from regional farmers and creators.

The Hermanus Weekend Market draws both locals and tourists with its community atmosphere. Shoppers browse stalls selling everything from organic vegetables to homemade preserves and baked goods.

Both markets feature live music and food trucks serving local dishes. Early morning visits offer the best selection before popular items sell out. The markets run rain or shine throughout the year.

Farmers' Markets, Crafts, and Local Produce

Local farmers bring seasonal produce directly from their farms to market stalls. Fresh seafood arrives daily from nearby coastal waters, including line fish, crayfish, and abalone.

Craft vendors showcase handmade jewelry, pottery, and textiles created by local artists. Many pieces reflect the coastal setting and fynbos vegetation unique to the region.

Local produce includes olive oils, honey, and preserves made from indigenous fruits. Organic vegetables and herbs grow in the fertile soil of the surrounding valleys.

Artisans often demonstrate their crafts, allowing visitors to watch pottery being thrown or jewelry being assembled. Many accept custom orders and ship internationally.

Wine Tastings in Hemel-en-Aarde Valley

The Hemel-en-Aarde Valley stretches inland from Hermanus, creating perfect conditions for cool-climate wines. Three distinct wards produce Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other varietals.

Wine Hoppers operates hop-on-hop-off tours using safari-style vehicles to visit multiple wineries. Tours include tastings at three to four estates with expert guides explaining terroir and winemaking techniques.

Most wineries offer daily tastings from 10 AM to 4 PM. Reservations help during peak season and weekends. Many estates pair wines with local cheeses and charcuterie.

The valley's proximity to the ocean creates morning mists and cool temperatures. These conditions produce elegant wines that compete internationally and win major awards.

Notable Wineries and Restaurants

Creation Wines combines wine tastings with food pairings in a stunning mountain setting. Their restaurant serves dishes designed to complement specific wines from their portfolio.

Bouchard Finlayson Winery pioneered Pinot Noir production in the valley during the 1980s. Their tasting room offers library wines and limited releases alongside current vintages.

Ataraxia Wines focuses on single-vineyard expressions and traditional winemaking methods. Visitors taste wines while enjoying views across the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.

Top restaurants include Frances at Auberge Burgundy, which serves French-inspired cuisine with local ingredients. Char'd Grill & Wine Bar specializes in grilled meats and seafood with extensive wine selections.

Lizettes Kitchen Bar & Restaurant offers contemporary dishes using seasonal produce. The Gecko Bar & Restaurant provides casual dining with craft beers and local wines in a relaxed atmosphere.