The Western Cape is known for many things such as its beautiful surroundings and pristine beaches, but one of the main aspects of this glorious province is the wine routes. You simply cannot visit this part of the country without experiencing the delightful wineries on offer. One of the most well-known and best routes to explore is the Whale Coast Art & Wine Route.
Where to find the Whale Coast Art & Wine Route
Starting in Cape Town, the Whale Coast Art & Wine Route takes you along the scenic R44, which is also known as Clarence Drive, through the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve. You could say this route rivals Chapman's Peak in Cape Town and is an extremely popular drive as it is one of the most scenic in the country, with views over False Bay that are absolutely breathtaking.
Driving through the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve is an experience all on its own as it is considered by many to be the most beautiful of CapeNature's protected areas. Its exceptional diversity and quality of fynbos mean it is regarded as the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom. The reserve presents possibly the finest example of mountain fynbos in the Western Cape and is a world-renowned World Heritage Site.
What you can expect along your journey
Your journey begins in Overberg which has some of the best whale viewing spots in the country. Some of the species of whale to keep an eye out for in the Overberg during whale watching season include Bryde's Whales, Orca and Minke Whales.
Along the way, you will pass through the villages of Rooiels, Pringle Bay and Betty's Bay, where Stony Point is a popular spot to visit one of only two mainland African Penguin colonies. The amazing Harold Porter Botanical Garden is situated just a stone's throw away and is definitely worth a visit as well.
Carrying on along the route you will reach Kleinmond before entering Hermanus, which boasts not only some of the world's best land-based whale watching but has its very own whale crier during the season. Hermanus also has over 50 wine farms and over 300 award-winning wines to explore on a wine tour of your choice.
Another great aspect of Hermanus is the art scene. Be sure to stop by Studio G, First Fridays and Lembu Gallery for an explosion of mind-blowing artistic creations. John The Potter Gallery is a lovely pottery shop and working studio in Hermanus where all the ceramics are handmade on the premises by John Ellis and is an absolute must-see!
You will then continue on through Stanford, a lovely village on the edge of the Klein River before ending up in Gansbaai. Gansbaai is known as the 'Great White Shark country' because of the shark cage diving available. The route then ends at Die Dam where you can go fishing, bird watching, hiking or swimming.
Planning a day on the route
There is so much to see and do along the Whale Coast Art & Wine Route including events that may pop up from time to time. The best way to have all the information and keep up with the latest tidings is to check out their Facebook page.
Sandbaai is a beautiful seaside village near Hermanus that is clean, safe and family-friendly. Whether you love art, wine, or wish to explore the incredible Whale Coast Art & Wine Route, you can do so as a resident of Sandbaai. Seeff has a wide variety of beautiful homes available in the area. If you want to know more or simply wish to browse properties in the area, contact one of our property practitioners today.