Gold, Glow-Ups & Good Weather in Hermanus

👋 Hello Hermanus - a new week and another round of local stories worth celebrating!

I think it’s safe to say the December madness has finally started to settle, although if you’ve been around town, you’ll still hear plenty of foreign accents, which is always a good sign. It certainly feels like Hermanus has been buzzing with overseas visitors post festive season which is great!

We chatted to a few local business owners, and the feedback was consistent: this was one of the busiest December trading periods they’ve had in years. And honestly, we all saw it as it felt like the town was maxed. One local barber even told us he was working 10-hour shifts straight through December, barely finding time for lunch. A good problem to have, but a hectic one nonetheless.

Add to that some of the best December weather we’ve seen in a long time, and it’s fair to say visitors (and locals) were spoilt.

Those busy streets are also reflected in the numbers coming through Cape Town International Airport, which recorded its busiest year ever in 2025. The airport handled over 11.1 million passengers, driven by strong growth in both international and domestic travel. December 2025 alone saw 1.12 million passengers, making it the busiest month on record with international arrivals up around 10% year-on-year and domestic travel also showing solid growth.

All signs point to a strong tourism season for the Western Cape and judging by the energy around town, Hermanus definitely felt the benefit.

In this week’s edition, we’re dishing up:

🌍 Business of the Week: We visit Gold Trader Hermanus - a local business worth getting to know.

✨New upgrades: If you’ve popped into Eastcliff Village recently, you’ll have spotted that something quietly new has been unfolding. From refreshed spaces to carefully considered upgrades, there’s more going on here than meets the eye.

📆 What’s On in Hermanus: Your go-to guide for local events, markets, live music and community happenings around town this week.

🌤️ Your Weather: A quick look at what’s ahead, so you can plan beach walks, coffee dates or outdoor adventures accordingly.

Here’s to local innovation, hard work, and the people shaping Hermanus - near and far.

The Hermanus Scoop Team 🐋

P.S. Love local stories? Share The Scoop with a friend at 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.

Property of the Week | Architecturally Designed Coastal Masterpiece

Just 500 metres from Onrus Blue Flag Beach, this brand-new, architect-designed home in sought-after Sandbaai offers the perfect blend of luxury, sustainability, and coastal living. The home features seamless open-plan living with kitchen, dining, and lounge areas flowing effortlessly, complemented by a PJ lounge and an enclosed braai room with a built-in stainless-steel braai - ideal for year-round entertaining.

A standout feature is the 10m heated indoor swimming pool, complete with frameless stack-up glass doors, skylight, and heat pump, creating a light-filled, resort-style atmosphere. With 4 spacious bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, comfort is guaranteed, while features such as a closed-combustion fireplace, air conditioning, and double-glazed aluminium windows ensure year-round efficiency. Sustainability and security are key, with a 20kWh solar system, 20,000L water storage, CCTV, external beams, and an alarm system. Additional extras include double and single garages, scullery/laundry, established garden, paving, and full perimeter fencing.

A rare opportunity to own a luxury, eco-conscious home in an exceptional coastal position.

👉 View the property here.

Business of the week: Gold Trader Hermanus

If you have ever wondered what your old gold or silver might be worth, or if you have been looking for a secure and tangible way to invest, Gold Trader Hermanus is a local business worth getting to know.

The familiar face you will meet when visiting the Hermanus branch is Dian Pretorius, who represents Gold Trader and personally assists every client who walks through the door. While Dian is not the owner of the company, he proudly represents a brand that has continued to grow steadily over the years. Gold Trader is owned by DeWaal Calitz, who is based in Mossel Bay, and the Hermanus branch marks the company’s seventh location.

Originally from Potchefstroom in the North West Province, Dian says it has always been his dream to live in the Western Cape, and thanks to his involvement with Gold Trader, that dream has become a reality. Now a proud Hermanus resident, he is grateful to call this town home and is passionate about building lasting relationships with the local community.

Gold Trader was founded by DeWaal Calitz in 2011 and, like any ambitious business, the company continues to explore opportunities to expand and evolve. Today, Gold Trader operates branches in George, Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn, Worcester, Stilbaai, Swellendam, and now Hermanus. As the business enters 2026, Dian is excited to see what DeWaal and the management team have planned next as Gold Trader continues to grow.

While Gold Trader understood that Hermanus already has established businesses operating in this space, Dian entered the local market knowing that competition is part of doing business. What sets Gold Trader apart is its ability to offer customers a higher percentage pay-out for unwanted gold and silver, helping residents get the most value possible.

But for Dian, it is not only about the numbers. He places a strong emphasis on exceptional service, believing that a transaction should never feel rushed or impersonal. Clients who are in a hurry can expect an efficient process, while those who enjoy a more personal experience are welcomed with time, conversation, and care. Dian shares that many clients have become valued long-term customers, and some have even become good friends, which speaks to the trust and relationships he works hard to build.

Gold Trader also plays a meaningful role in the community, particularly during times when the cost of living continues to rise. In many cases, the gold or silver someone brings in is not truly unwanted, but rather something they feel forced to part with due to temporary financial strain. Dian approaches every transaction with discretion, sensitivity, and respect, understanding that every person’s situation is different. By offering higher pay-outs, Gold Trader aims to ease some of that pressure while contributing positively to the broader local economy, whether that means helping someone cover essential expenses or supporting a local business owner in keeping their doors open.

For Dian, one of the greatest joys of doing business in Hermanus is the people. Seeing the smiles on customers’ faces when they discover what he is able to offer for their gold and silver is incredibly rewarding, and the support from the community has been nothing short of exceptional. He opens his doors each day with genuine enthusiasm, ready to welcome clients and continue building relationships in town.

Gold Trader’s core service is the buying of gold and silver in any condition, including jewellery, coins, bullion, and even broken or damaged pieces. In addition, the business also offers investment opportunities through the sale of gold and silver Krugerrands, providing clients with a reliable and physical way to grow and protect their wealth.

Whether you are looking to sell old gold or silver, need short-term financial support, or want to invest in something tangible, Gold Trader Hermanus offers fair value, trusted guidance, and service built on integrity.

Visit Gold Trader Hermanus Today:

Shop 3 IPIC CENTRE
81 Main Road
Hermanus 
7200

Phone: 028 001 1111 & 063 684 3690 (Whatsapp)
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.goldtrader.co.za

What’s New: Eastcliff Village Gets a Thoughtful Refresh

You may have noticed towards the end of last year that there was quite a bit happening at Eastcliff Village with a flurry of refurbishments, fresh finishes, and subtle changes across the centre. None of it was accidental.

Swish Property Fund acquired Eastcliff Village in February 2025, and from day one the vision was clear: to honour the spirit of old Hermanus while gently elevating the centre into a warm, elegant community hub for the Eastcliff area.

All three Swish partners have holiday homes in Hermanus, and the town holds a special place in their hearts. When the opportunity arose, it was a natural fit - and planning for meaningful improvements began immediately.

Rather than reinventing what already worked, the focus was on enhancing a strong foundation. The centre was already home to quality tenants and people, and Swish applied its experience to refine and elevate the overall offering. New tenants have been warmly welcomed by the local community, and discussions are underway with a few exciting additions - particularly smaller spaces designed to add character and convenience.

A great deal was achieved in a short space of time:

• A new roof

• Improved gardens planted with indigenous greenery

• Updated lighting and signage

• A décor refresh in keeping with classic, old-Hermanus charm

Phase 2 is planned for 2026, with even more attention to fine detail and further enhancements across the centre.

Importantly, Eastcliff Village is a long-term hold for Swish. Ongoing investment and thoughtful improvements will continue — always with tenants, locals, and the broader community in mind.

A familiar favourite, refreshed with care.
And yes - we’re very proud of Eastcliff Village.

🌿 Events in Hermanus 🌿

It’s a slightly slower start on the events front this week, with not too much happening around town - but there are still a few great reasons to get out and about.

📖 The Cookbook & Supper Club

Join the first Cookbook & Supper Club of the year as the kitchen comes alive cooking from Upwards by Karen Dudley. A relaxed, social evening filled with good conversation, great books, and seriously good food.

📍 CanD’s Kitchen
🗓 Thursday, 22 January 2026
🕠 17:30
🎟 R380 per person
📞 Bookings: 079 833 8811

🍷 Benguela Cove Seasonal Courtyard Market

Discover premium, curated local luxury at the Benguela Cove Wine Estate Seasonal Courtyard Market. Expect handcrafted jewellery, fine art, leatherwork and ceramics, specialty gourmet treats, and high-end fashion and home décor - all set in a beautiful winelands courtyard.

🗓 Saturday, 24 January 2026
🕙 10:00 -15:00

🌊 Floatie Fun at Ficks

An afternoon of classic summer fun at the iconic Ficks tidal pool. Bring your floatie, soak up the sun, and enjoy the soundtrack of DJ Vibez Cartel spinning throughout the day.

📍 8 Marine Drive, Westcliff, Hermanus
🗓 Saturday, 31 January
🕛 12:00 – 20:00
🎧 DJ Vibez Cartel
🛟 Bring your own floatie

Public event - everyone welcome. Sun, music, salt water… pure Hermanus summer.

🌿 The Usuals

Mikro Coffee 6am Run Friday Run Club

🗓 Every Friday · 06:00
📍 Mikro Coffee, Aberdeen Street

Join us every Friday at 6am for a relaxed 5KM fun run

Hermanus Country Market

🗓 Every Saturday · 09:00 – 14:00
📍 Hermanus Cricket Club

Artisan stalls, live music, great food, fresh produce, local crafts and a warm, family-friendly vibe - a staple Saturday tradition for both locals and visitors.

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 opened their doors again last week, and with that came a very special milestone, the arrival of the new Grade 1s, proudly starting their school journeys. Over the coming days, many schools will also be gearing up for athletics days, and we’ll keep you posted on any larger school events as they unfold.

🌿Health & Wellness: Move Gently, Move Well

Nia is a gentle invitation to move your body in a way that heals rather than pushes. Blending dance, mindfulness, and somatic awareness, Nia uses joyful, music-led movement to release tension, calm the nervous system, and help you reconnect with your body - building strength, balance, flexibility, and emotional resilience by listening, not forcing.

🗓 Fridays at 08:00
📍 ProActive Gym
📞 Contact Jeanette Hogg on 083 273 9753 for more info

🌤️ Weather Forecast for Hermanus

Hermanus leans into a calmer, sun-friendlier stretch this week, with warm daytime highs, cooler evenings, and only a few light showers in the mix. It’s the kind of weather that keeps the town feeling bright and outdoorsy - beach mornings, easy afternoons, and that classic coastal balance of sunshine with the odd passing cloud.

Expect a mostly summer-steady week overall, with temperatures gently climbing again toward the end of the month.

⸻

Thursday 22 January

Warm with cloud cover drifting in and a light shower or two possible - a relaxed, slightly moody coastal day. 🌦️ 22°C / 16°C Winds 8 / 2 m/s Rain 1 mm

Friday 23 January

Mild and pleasant, with sunshine taking over as the day goes on - easy summer energy returns. 🌤️ 21°C / 17°C Winds 4 / 3 m/s

Saturday 24 January

Clear, bright and beautifully summery - the kind of day you plan around the outdoors. ☀️ 22°C / 15°C Winds 5 / 2 m/s Rain 0.1 mm

Sunday 25 January

A warm, settled day with plenty of sun - perfect for markets, swims, and slow afternoons. ☀️ 23°C / 17°C Winds 6 / 2 m/s

Monday 26 January

Sunny again, with a little more breeze in the air - classic Hermanus summer, fresh and open. ☀️ 23°C / 17°C Winds 7 / 1 m/s

Tuesday 27 January

Warm and bright with just a hint of drizzle possible - summer stays in charge. 🌤️ 23°C / 18°C Winds 5 / 2 m/s Rain 0.4 mm

Wednesday 28 January

Slightly warmer with a mix of sun and cloud - ideal for long walks and late lunches. 🌤️ 24°C / 18°C Winds 8 / 4 m/s Rain 0.1 mm

⸻

The week ahead feels bright, steady, and properly coastal - warm days, cooler nights, and just enough variety to keep you checking the sky before you commit. A gentle reminder that Hermanus summer is at its best when you lean into the rhythm, not the forecast.

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 festive and 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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