Things get festive at the Fernkloof Flower Show and we look into the Lampshade Studio 💐

👋 Hello Hermanus - creativity and colour are in full bloom this week!

From the wild beauty of our fynbos hillsides to the artistic spark of local makers, we’re celebrating the many ways Hermanus shines. The Hermanus Botanical Society is gearing up for their annual Fernkloof Flower Show - a dazzling display of biodiversity and community pride - while The Lampshade Studio reminds us how local design and imagination can light up everyday life.

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

🌿 Spotlight on the Hermanus Botanical Society and a sneak peek at the Fernkloof Flower Show
💡 Local creativity - a closer look at Lampshade Studio
🎶 What’s on in Hermanus - your guide to markets, music, and events

Here’s to celebrating the beauty, talent, and stories that make our town unique.

The Hermanus Scoop Team 🐋

P.S. Love local stories? Share the Scoop with a friend and send them to hermanusscoop.co.za – 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.

Perfect Vista in Eastcliff

As specialist Eastcliff agents, we are privileged to present this move in ready home to the market. Situated on a Easterly orientated 890sqm corner stand in Mitchell Street, this home exudes a quiet yet light filled confidence of the perfect balance between the style of yesteryear and modern finishes. Essentially a combination of two homes in one with a common space joining. Allowing each to live at their own pace and privacy.

Fully walled, the courtyard and pool with large covered stoep, is best experienced in the early morning sunrise over Maanskynkop, expanding to Aasvoëlklip and Hermanus mountains, from where hang gliders fly gently down. Being sheltered from unwelcome weather, this vista is perfect for entertaining and doubles an ideal setting for late afternoon GnT`s or something more exotic. The area flows via 3 wide opening French doors into the lounge/dining area. Here one experiences a full expanse of vaulted ceilings with timber fired double sided fireplace. Perfect for cosy nights in. On the Northern side, one finds a spacious master suite, complete with a modern en suite bathroom, studio, with a discreet door, allowing external entrance. The mountain views from here are simply spectacular.

View the property in full.

🌿 Feature of the Week: The Hermanus Botanical Society

For nearly 70 years, the Hermanus Botanical Society has been the quiet guardian of one of our town’s greatest treasures: the Fernkloof Nature Reserve. We caught up with Chairperson Mary Ann Verster to discuss all things Fernkloof…

Run entirely by volunteers, this nonprofit public benefit organisation is driven by a simple but powerful mission - to protect and celebrate the Cape Floral Kingdom right here in Hermanus.

The Society’s work reaches far beyond the surface beauty of the fynbos. Their volunteers maintain the botanical gardens, ensuring that locals and visitors alike can enjoy them free of charge. They also finance and support the Fernkloof Indigenous Nursery, where plants are propagated from seed and cuttings before being nurtured into life - both to raise funds and to ensure indigenous flora thrives in local gardens.

Conservation is at the heart of what they do. The Society has played a key role in trail maintenance and restoration, particularly after the devastating 2023 storms. Iconic routes like the Elephant Path and the Voëlklip Zigzag Trail have been rebuilt thanks to their efforts, blending volunteer hands with hired labour to keep the mountains accessible and safe. They also assist with alien clearing, support environmental education, and maintain Galpin Hut, a beloved overnight spot high in the mountains.

Science and learning are woven into their work. The Society curates an internationally recognised herbarium (now online), runs a small research centre with microscopes for plant and insect study, and publishes resources ranging from hiking maps to books on Fernkloof’s flora, fauna, and even spiders. Each week, a team refreshes the Visitor Centre’s specimen displays, licensed by Cape Nature, so hikers know what’s blooming on the trails.

At its heart, though, the Hermanus Botanical Society is about passion. It’s a collective of people who care deeply about the fynbos, the mountains, and the creatures who call them home. They have stood firm against threats of commercialisation, ensuring Fernkloof remains a true nature reserve, not an entertainment park.

And this September, their dedication will once again burst into colour at the Fernkloof Flower Show - a dazzling celebration of biodiversity and community spirit, and a reminder of just how lucky Hermanus is to have such careful custodians of our natural heritage.

🌿 Learn more: fernkloof.org.za
🎟️ Get your tickets to the Fernkloof Flower Show here - Entrance to Fernkloof Reserve Trails & Plant Nursery is FREE.

💡 New in Town: The Lampshade Studio

“Where creativity meets craftsmanship, one shade at a time.”

The Lampshade Studio’s story began almost 32 years ago, when a simple request to refurbish a lampshade sparked a lifelong passion. What started with hours of peeling fabric, sanding, painting, stitching, and more than a few glue mishaps has grown into a full-fledged design and restoration workshop known for both artistry and precision.

From restoring vintage frames and welding custom wire structures, to hand-stitching fabric and bonding PVC, the team has mastered every step of lampshade making. Over the years, they’ve become known not just for their bespoke designs but also for bringing old treasures back to life.

In 2012, they expanded their craft into the Lampshade Boutique at the Somerset West Décor Centre, offering both ready-made designs and custom shades made from clients’ own fabrics. A decade later, in 2022, the Boutique grew into a larger space—complete with a coffee shop for customers who travelled from near and far.

Now, Hermanus has its own touch of this artistry. In August 2025, The Lampshade Studio opened at the Hermanus Waterfront, bringing their unique blend of design, restoration, and creativity right to Main Road. Whether you’re looking for the perfect shade to finish a room, to restore a family heirloom, or simply to be inspired by the artistry of handcrafted design, The Lampshade Studio is ready to welcome you.

📍 Find them at: Shop 51, Hermanus Waterfront, 104 Main Road, Hermanus
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Call: 079 939 5024
🌐 Website: thelampshadestudio.co.za

📆 What’s On in Hermanus

Jazz Night at Dutchies 🎷
🗓 Friday, 26 September · 18:00
📍 Dutchies, Grotto Beach

Jazz is back at Dutchies! Enjoy the smooth sounds of Simon and Friends at the very first Jazz Night since renovations, paired with new menu items and the perfect oceanfront vibe.

📞 Bookings: 028 314 1392
📧 [email protected]

Derek Gripper Live in Hermanus 🎶
🗓 Friday, 26 September · 19:30
📍 Road House Cinema, Hermanus

World-renowned guitarist Derek Gripper performs live in Hermanus for one night only. This marks Road House Cinema’s very first music event - an intimate evening of unforgettable music with limited seats available.

🎟 Tickets: Quicket

Harcourts Hermanus Spring Trail Run Series 🏃‍♀️🍷
🗓 Saturday, 27 September · 08:00
📍 Bouchard Finlayson, Hemel-en-Aarde

Run (or walk) and raise a glass at Bouchard Finlayson! The Spring Trail Run Series offers 5 km & 10 km routes through pristine fynbos with breathtaking Hemel-en-Aarde views. A perfect blend of fitness, fresh air, and wine.

🌐 Info & entries: www.raceday.co.za

Live Rugby: South Africa 🇿🇦 vs Argentina 🇦🇷
🗓 Saturday, 27 September · Kick-off 17:00
📍 Various venues in Hermanus

Catch the Springboks take on Los Pumas live on the big screen! Several local favourites will be screening the match - grab a seat, enjoy the atmosphere, and cheer the Boks on with fellow fans.

Fernkloof Flower Show 🌸
🗓 Sunday, 28 September · 09:00 – 16:00
📍 Fernkloof Nature Reserve

The Hermanus Botanical Society hosts its annual Fernkloof Flower Show, showcasing over 350 flowering fynbos specimens and gorgeous floral arrangements. This year’s theme, “Seed Secrets”, explores the fascinating world of seed production and dispersal. Enjoy walks, workshops, kids’ activities, refreshments, and a 15% discount at the Indigenous Plant Nursery. Entry to the reserve is free; activities are individually priced.

🌐 More info: www.fernkloof.org.za

The Journey - A Musical 🎵
🗓 Monday & Tuesday, 29 & 30 September · 18:30
📍 Hermanus Auditorium

The Journey" is a not-to-be-missed musical by three performing arts schools in Hermanus: Mariette Labuschagne’s M-Lab Studio, Andriëtte Roux’s School of Dance and Marhette van Huyssteen’s Woordcklub Drama.

🌐 Tickets here.

🗳️ IEC Western Cape e-Voting Policy Discussion
📅 Friday 26 September · 11:00 – 13:00
📍 Auditorium Hermanus
💵 No costs - Only 150 seats available
📞Please RSVP to [email protected] or [email protected]

Saturday | Curro Hermanus Men’s Evening 🏈💥
🗓 Saturday, 27 September · 15:30 till late (Kick-off at 17:00)
📍 Curro Hermanus School Hall
Watch Springboks vs Los Pumas live on big screens. Includes live entertainment, auction, and lucky draw prizes.
💵 R600 pp | Golden Circle: R750 pp
☎ Elaine: 082 885 1899

Save the date

Oktoberfest at Benguela Cove 🍺
🗓 Saturday, 04 October · 12:00 – 21:00
📍 Benguela Cove Wine Estate

Dress in your best Bavarian garb and join a day of music, craft beer, wine, German cuisine, live Oompah tunes, and DJ sets. Expect a festive market, family fun, and a chance to win best-dressed!

🎟 Tickets: R250 (adult) | R135 (child over 3)
➡️ Get tickets here: Benguela Cove Oktoberfest 2025 

Hermanus Whale Festival 2025 🐋 
🗓 Friday 3 – Sunday 5 October 2025
📍 Hermanus Waterfront & surrounds

The 2025 Hermanus Whale Festival is just a week away - it’s the perfect time to familiarise yourself with the programme, as the town gets busy during this flagship event. Expect southern right whales breaching close to shore, a colourful Street Parade on Saturday morning, and the ever-popular Eco-Marine Marquee with interactive exhibits, kids’ treasure hunts and marine talks.

The festival also features three days of live music, a Saturday Beer Fest, food & craft markets, and dedicated kiddies zones. Highlights include the 10km Fun Run (Sat, 07:00), the Springboks vs Argentina clash on the big screen (Sat, 15:00), and the Reunion Island Marquee, where you can explore eco-tourism and ocean conservation initiatives.

🌐 Full schedule: hermanuswhalefestival.co.za/events

Dozi 🎶
🗓 Friday, 10 October · 19:00
📍 Sandbaai Saal

South African music legend Dozi brings his soulful sounds to Hermanus for a one-night-only performance. Enjoy an evening of live music and local flavour in the Sandbaai community hall.

🎟 Tickets from R180
📲 WhatsApp: 074 717 2582
📧 Email: [email protected]
🔗 Book online: Quicket

🌿 The Usuals

Saturday | Hermanus Country Market
🗓 Every Saturday · 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.

Local Thrift Market 🛍️
🗓 Saturday, 27 September · 09:00 – 13:00
📍 De Wet Saal / De Wet Hall

Browse a variety of stalls and discover unique pre-loved treasures at the Local Thrift Market. Bring your fur-friend along (on a leash) and enjoy a relaxed, community market day.

Saturday | Hermanus ParkRun 🏃
🗓 Every Saturday · 08:00
📍 Hermanus Forest, Camphill Road, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
Start your weekend with a scenic 5km trail run (or walk). Free to join.

Saturday | Benguela Cove ParkRun 🏃 
🗓 Saturday · 08:00
📍 Benguela Cove, R43, Botriver Lagoon, Hermanus Another beautiful 5km trail run (or walk) along the lagoon. Free to join - just register online at parkrun.co.za.

🎓 Schools

Schools are wrapping up the term this week and close next week 3 October until the 13th of October for the last term of the year!

🌤️ Spring keeps unfolding as Hermanus eases into longer light and warmer air.

The week ahead promises bright skies with a playful mix of warmth and cloud. Thursday begins fresh, Friday and Saturday glow with sunshine, and Sunday cools again with a touch of moisture. Early next week, the sun steadies its hold, before Wednesday brings a small reminder that spring still carries rain in its pocket.

Here’s what the days ahead look like:

⸻

Thursday 25 September
Fresh and sunny. ☀️ 18°C / 10°C. Winds 10-6 m/s.

Friday 26 September
Bright and warming. ☀️ 20°C / 11°C. Winds 10-6 m/s.

Saturday 27 September
Sun with some cloud. 🌤️ 21°C / 13°C. Winds 9-5 m/s.

Sunday 28 September
Cloudier, with a light sprinkle. 🌦️ 18°C / 14°C, 0.5 mm rain. Winds 6-2 m/s.

Monday 29 September
Settled sunshine. ☀️ 22°C / 13°C. Winds 5 m/s.

Tuesday 30 September
Warm and fair. 🌤️ 24°C / 12°C. Winds 5-3 m/s.

Wednesday 1 October
Partly cloudy, a little rain. 🌦️ 20°C / 14°C, 1.4 mm rain. Winds 8-1 m/s.

⸻

From Thursday’s fresh start to Tuesday’s warmth and Wednesday’s soft showers, Hermanus is weaving another week of spring colour and calm.

🍔 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. Want to be featured in the Scoop? Drop us a mail at [email protected] - we’d love to hear from you.

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