🥩🔋 From Biltong to Batteries - It’s All Happening in Hermanus This Week

This week, we visit the legendary Van Blommestein Butchery, where two sister in laws built a local institution nearly 20 years ago. Plus, South Africa’s biggest electric vehicle showcase, hosted by EVNow.co.za, is rolling into town - from luxury EVs to scooters and everything in between. And of course, we’re still in full swing with the 25th Kalfiefees celebration.

👋 Hello Hermanus – and happy Kalfiefees week!

We’re slam bang in the middle of the 25th annual Kalfiefees, and the town is buzzing with colour, culture, and celebration. Whether you’ve already caught a show or are planning your weekend around the festival guide, there’s still time to join in before things wrap up on 10 August.

In this week’s Scoop, we’re bringing you:

🎭 A nod to 25 years of Kalfiefees and what not to miss before the curtain closes
🥩 A behind-the-scenes look at Van Blommestein Butchery - where two sisters built one of the most iconic meat stops in town
⚡And… did someone say electric? South Africa’s biggest EV showcase is headed straight for Hermanus

Plus there’s other local events, restaurant specials, and more to fill your calendar.

Let’s dive in.

- The Hermanus Scoop Team 🐋

P.S. Know someone who should be reading this too? Send them to hermanusscoop.co.za to join the fam - it’s free and it’s lekker.

🏡 Property of the Week - Presented by Greeff Properties

Looking for ocean views or a mountainside retreat?

Each week, we spotlight a standout listing that captures the unique charm and lifestyle of the Overberg. From ocean-view escapes to tucked-away treasures, these are the homes that inspire imagination - and maybe even your next move. Brought to you by Greeff Properties, trusted specialists in exceptional real estate across the Overberg.

You deserve this view!

Exceptional 4-Bedroom Home with Scenic Views and Unmatched Outdoor Opportunities

Set in a picturesque location, this exquisite 4-bedroom, 3 bathroom home combines luxurious living with the beauty of nature. The surrounding area offers a tranquil environment teeming with wildlife, including wild horses, tortoises, owls, and eagles, providing a truly serene atmosphere.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby lagoon presents a haven for fishing, kayaking, kite surfing, and boating, with a designated boat launch area for easy access. Additionally, the area across the road is zoned as Public Open Space, ensuring no future development, so your panoramic views will remain uninterrupted. To the right of the lagoon, you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas of the renowned Benguela Cove Wine Estate and its spectacular vineyards.

This property offers more than just a home; it delivers an exceptional lifestyle with unparalleled natural beauty and endless recreational opportunities.

View the property in full

Business Feature of the Week: Van Blommestein Butchery

Where Family, Grit and Great Meat Meet

If you’ve lived in Hermanus for more than five minutes chances are you’ve heard of Van Blommestein Butchery. And if you haven’t, well, it’s time to fix that.

It’s authentic and key to Hermanus for so many reasons. This much-loved butchery has been quietly and proudly doing things differently since 2006. That’s when sister-in-laws Leslene and Marjoh rolled the dice, bought a butchery they knew nothing about and threw themselves into the deep end. No experience, no plan B - just courage, community spirit and a whole lot of hard work.

Fast forward almost 20 years, and Van Blommestein is a local institution.

You’ll usually find Leslene behind the till, fielding phone orders with one hand and greeting customers with the other. She’s the warm heart of the shop, always ready with a laugh, a story or a shoulder to cry on. Many of her regulars have become more like family than customers over the years.

Then there’s Marjoh, the quiet engine behind the scenes, keeping the numbers tight and the team ticking. With an unshakable work ethic and a sharp eye for detail, she’s the one who keeps the wheels turning.

The family thread runs even deeper. Marjoh’s son, Marius, is one of the skilled blockmen behind the counter. With years of experience in the food world, he brings craftsmanship, consistency and calm - the kind you want when it comes to quality cuts. Don’t believe us? Just ask all the hunters in town.

Their recipe for success? Simple: Exceptional service, top-quality meat and a genuine love for people.

Pop in for your weekend braai essentials or your midweek mince, and you’ll get more than just great meat. You’ll get a warm welcome, expert advice and maybe even a hug if Leslene’s in the mood. And don’t forget to greet the unofficial mascots. Trust us, we’ve wondered for years whose dogs they were, but now we know. These are a few loyal dogs from Zwelihle who’ve figured out that hanging around the butchery means treats and love. They double as the shop’s four-legged security team after hours.

Van Blommestein Butchery is more than just a place to buy meat.
It’s where stories are shared, friendships are made and the smell of boerewors and hard work lingers in the air.

Go for the biltong. Stay for the banter.

Scoop tip: We love their spiced short rib on the braai. Trust us, it’s a winner!

🚗⚡ No Petrol, No Problem - EV Day Hits Hermanus this Saturday

The country’s biggest electric vehicle showcase is rolling into town this Saturday, 9 August, hosted at the Hermanus High School sports grounds from 9am to 4pm.

Brought to you by EVNow, the event promises a full day of all things electric - from cars and scooters to e-bikes, solar power and cutting-edge tech. It’s designed for the whole family and entry is completely free.

Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Experience 20 different EV and plug-in hybrid models from 10 top brands

• Take a ride in an EV and find out why owners love them

• Watch live EV charging demos in action

• Enjoy electric scooter rides around the track

• Explore the e-mobility zone with e-bikes, 2 & 3-wheelers, solar panels and home battery setups

• See the fastest electric superbike in South Africa, the Energica Ego

• Get up close with a Tesla Model X and a classic VW Beetle EV conversion

• Chat with local and regional EV owners and see their vehicles

• Learn about electric vehicles and robotics from Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Engineering

It’s educational, exciting and a unique look at what the road ahead could look like - right here in Hermanus.

More info:
EVNow Event Page
News24 Article

🍷 Wine of the Week

We’ve teamed up with a few mysterious ghost writers who know their way around a wine glass. Each week, they’ll be sharing a local wine review straight from the heart of the valley.

What’s in your Glass (07.08.2025) 

Our feature wine for the week - TERRA.LOCI ‘Fé’ Chardonnay 2022

During a recent visit to a local wine shop, this bottle immediately caught my attention—thanks to a bold sign announcing its producer as Platter’s Guide’s Newcomer Winery of the Year. This prestigious award is given to the debuting winery that achieves the highest overall ratings across its range.

Among the standout wines was this Elgin Chardonnay, which received an impressive 5-star rating. It was accompanied by a 4.5-star Chenin Blanc from Swartland and a 4.5-star Grenache Blanc from Paarl, all contributing to the winery’s remarkable first showing.

The award underscores the winery’s commitment to crafting vineyard-specific wines that reflect the unique character of their origins. TERRA. LOCI. is a collaborative project between seasoned industry experts Bertus Fourie, Johann Fourie, and Pieter du Toit.

The wine’s name, "Fé," pays homage to the deep red clay soils—rich in iron—known locally as koffieklip (ferricrete), in which the Chardonnay vines are rooted.

Only 1,820 bottles of this maiden vintage were produced, making it a rare and exciting find.

This cool-climate Chardonnay is a true expression of its origin. The nose is fragrant with sweet citrus notes like mandarin and orange blossom, alongside hints of stone fruit and subtle oak nuances. On the palate, it offers balance and elegance, delivering everything a Chardonnay lover desires: creamy texture (but not buttery), refreshing vibrancy (without sharp acidity), and refined finesse—a testament to skilled winemaking and attention to detail.

A remarkable debut that promises even more to come.

Cost – R325 (I am pretty sure the price will not remain this “friendly” in the vintages to come!)

96/100

📆 What’s On in Hermanus

The first half of the month has a lot to offer:

Thursday | Ladies Night - Mother and Daughter Edition 🍿
🗓 Friday, 8 August · 19:30📍 Road House Cinema
Anna Coleman and her mother Tess are in another predicament when they swap bodies with Anna's daughter. Now it's up to the three to reverse the body swap.
🔗 More information & Tickets

Saturday | Electric Vehicle Showcase 🔋
🗓 Saturday, 9 August · 09:00–15:00 📍 Hermanus High School Sports Grounds
Explore the future of transport with EV test rides, live demos, scooters, e-bikes, solar tech, and more. Free to attend and fun for the whole family.
🔗 evnow.co.za/events

Saturday | Hermanus ParkRun 🏃 
🗓 Saturday, 9 August · 08:00 📍 Hermanus Forest, Camphill Road, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley - Start your weekend with a scenic 5km trail run (or walk). Free to join - just register online at parkrun.co.za.

Saturday | Benguela Cove ParkRun 🏃 
🗓 Saturday, 9 August · 08:00 📍 Benguela Cove, R43, Botriver Lagoon, Hermanus - Start your weekend with a scenic 5km trail run (or walk). Free to join - just register online at parkrun.co.za.

Saturday | Hermanus Country Market 🌿 
🗓 Saturday, 9 August · 09:00 - 14:00 📍 Hermanus Cricket Club - Artisan stalls, live music, food, fresh produce and a family-friendly vibe - a staple Saturday outing for locals and visitors alike.

Wednesday| Second Chance Event 💗
🗓 Wednesday, 13 August · 18:00 📍 NG Church Onrus - Join us for a special event to raise awareness on Organ Donation. INCLUDED: Soup, Sherry, Bread. Fun Prizes & Lucky Draws! All profits will be donated to The Organ Donar Foundation. COST: R 150 p/p (table bookings welcome, 8 per table. CONTACT: Natalie - 083 445 4911 Jackie - 076 873 4386

Next Week | Sip & Paint ☕️
🗓 Saturday, 16 August · 10:00 📍 Mikro Coffee - Join us for a morning filled with fun and creativity. Your first coffee is on us and all materials are included! R250 per person - only 10 spots available. Book with Wilna- 082 744 7664

Around the Corner | Civitas First Founder’s Breakfast 📈
🗓 Thursday, 21 August · 08:00 📍 Venue to be announced - Civitas is South Africa’s private network for high-growth CEOs and founders — and we’re thrilled to announce that our Hermanus chapter launches on 21 August with a connection-driven Founder's Breakfast. RSVP to save your seat:* 👉 https://lu.ma/hermanusaug25

🎓 School Term Update

Some quick highlights from across our schools:

HERMANUS HIGH SCHOOL - It’s Interschools Week!

From 11–16 August, Hermanus High takes on Worcester Gymnasium in a week full of fierce rivalry and school spirit. TheScoopteam wishes all the Hermanus High teams the very best - your town is behind you all the way!

View the full programme and booklet here.

CURRO INTERSCHOOLS FIXTURES

Friday, 8 August
Curro Primary vs Laerskool Kleinmond
Venue: Laerskool Kleinmond
Kick-off: 11:30

Saturday, 16 August
Curro High vs Bonnievale High
Venue: Curro
Sporting codes: Rugby, Netball, Hockey, Chess
Curro High vs Curro Somerset West
Venue: Curro
Sporting code: Football

Let’s rally behind all our Curro teams and make it a weekend to remember!

Meet the 2025 Cape Winelands Bodyboarding Team

This week, the Cape Winelands Bodyboarding team was officially introduced at a gathering at Milk on the Beach. Congratulations to all the riders who fought their way through the trials and earned their spot on the provincial team!

They’ll be representing the Cape Winelands at the South African Championships in Durban - we’re backing you all the way!

Generation Schools: Fair Trade Friday is Here!

Join us this Friday, 8 August, for our much-loved termly event - Fair Trade Friday. It’s a fantastic opportunity for our young entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their products while learning the fundamentals of running a business. Always a highlight on the school calendar, this event brings joy to both learners and parents alike!

🌬️🌦️ Hermanus Weather Update: 7 – 13 August

The Overberg continues its slow waltz into spring - not in a rush, but with moments of clarity and warmth that feel like the season testing its colours. Rain still lingers in the corners, but sunlight now stays for tea. Expect a week of soft interruptions and strong finishes.

Here’s what the days ahead look like:

⸻

Thursday 7 August
Bright between the lines. 🌥️ A milder start to the week with scattered clouds and moments of light. High of 16°C, low of 9°C. Winds steady at 6 m/s. Ideal for errands on foot - coat optional.

Friday 8 August
Soft grey, no surprises. ☁️ A calm, uneventful sky. 16°C at its warmest, dipping to 8°C. Winds ease down to 5 m/s. A neutral kind of day – perfect for catching up or slowing down.

Saturday 9 August
Here comes the splash. 🌧️ Expect 8.6 mm of rain, mostly in soft bursts. Temperatures between 15°C and 10°C, and gusts up to 10 m/s. Best to stay under cover - or lean into the wet.

Sunday 10 August
Rain with resolve. 🌦️ A livelier mix - 11 mm of rain paired with a 14°C high and 8°C low. Wind stirs at 10 m/s. Best enjoyed from indoors, ideally with something baked.

Monday 11 August
A gentle rebound. 🌤️ Clearer skies return. A comfortable high of 16°C, bottoming out at 7°C. Winds calm to 3 m/s. Feels like a fresh page.

Tuesday 12 August
A peek of spring. ☀️ A golden stretch with barely a drop (0.1 mm rain). Temperature rises to 17°C, low of 9°C. Winds at 6 m/s. This is the day to be outside.

Wednesday 13 August
A gentle fade. 🌦️ Light showers totalling 2.8 mm. Mild again, sitting between 14°C and 10°C. Winds breeze along at 4 m/s. A soft close to a week full of flickers.

So whether you’re finding solace in Sunday’s showers or stretching your limbs under Tuesday’s sunshine, remember: Hermanus weathers its days like it does its moods - a little bit of everything, always with feeling.

Here’s to noticing the little shifts.

🦐 Restaurant Specials:

Here are some of the best deals from all over town for you to enjoy during the coming week:

Spotted in the Overberg: Photo of the Week

Each week, we feature one special snap submitted by someone who calls this place home. From misty morning walks to playful pups on the beach - we want to see what you see.

And here’s the perk: every featured photographer gets a free flat white on us - in partnership with Molo Coffee. So send in your best shot to [email protected], and you might just sip your way to local fame.

That’s a wrap for this week’s Scoop!

Stay warm, stay dry, stay curious and we’ll catch you next week!

- The Hermanus Scoop Team 🐋

P.S. Got a story, sighting, or scoop to share? Drop us an email at [email protected] - we’d love to hear from you.