The Western Cape town of Hermanus has long been hailed as one of the world’s best land-based whale-watching destinations.
With its rugged and dramatic cliffs, the town offers visitors front-row seats to southern right and humpback whales breaching just offshore between June and November every year.
Now, Hermanus’ beloved coastal walkway has finally been restored – just in time for locals and tourists to enjoy the rest of the South African whale-watching season.
The missing link on the whale-watching path
Years of disputes, delays and detours left an 800-metre gap between the two main sections of the Hermanus cliff path.
The missing link forced walkers off the route and onto the main road to skirt a ‘privately-owned’ stretch at Poole’s Bay.
This interrupted the scenic vistas along the much-loved coastal footpath.
The standoff between environmental authorities, the municipality and private landowners was finally resolved in 2023.
The Western Cape provincial environment department then granted permission for a 1.2m-wide public pathway to be built.
Construction of this whale-watching footpath is now complete.
The result is a smoother, safer and more accessible coastal trail that welcomes everyone – including those using mobility aids.
This restoration also means a walkers, joggers and whale-spotters can enjoy a continuous 12-kilometre footpath along Hermanus’ famous coastal cliffs.
The newly-linked section at Poole’s Bay was officially opened by Western Cape Premier Alan Winde.
He celebrated the milestone with a coastal stroll alongside local officials.
“It’s great to be in Hermanus for the opening of the Hermanus Cliff Path!” Winde wrote.
“Now you can enjoy a full 12km walk from the New Harbour all the way to Piet-se-Bos near Grotto Beach.”
“This is a fantastic new way for tourists and locals to discover the Western Cape’s coastal magic!”
With the final link now in place, Hermanus’s iconic cliff path is once again complete and ready for whale-watching enthusiasts.
