It Started With a Beer 🍺

Hello Hermanus!

One thing we've learnt while putting this newsletter together each week is that there's always another good story waiting around the corner.

This week, we're sharing how a conversation over a beer turned into one of the Overberg's best-loved walking experiences, why tomorrow is a big day for the South African Whale Centre, and a few great ways to keep busy around town this winter.

Let's get into it.

In this week's edition:

🏡 Property of the Week with Greeff Properties

⛰️ Business of the Week: The Hermanus Camino

⚖️ Legal Corner: Who's responsible for storm damage in a rental property?

🐋 The first Whale Legacy Tiles are installed at the future South African Whale Centre

🏏 Hermanus Cricket Club is looking for local businesses to help grow the game

📅 What's On: Markets, school holiday activities, shopping, and more.

Here's to good stories, good people, and another week in Hermanus.

-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.

Modern Coastal Freedom In the Heart of Chanteclair:

There comes a stage where you want less upkeep but absolutely no compromise on quality or lifestyle. Chanteclair Estate is set in the heart of Chanteclair, one of Hermanus’s most established and desirable pockets. Just 10 newly built homes form this private, boutique estate designed for over-50s who value independence, style and ease. These are contemporary, intelligently sized homes generous enough to entertain, host family or work remotely, yet manageable enough to free up your time.

View the full property here.

⛰️ Business of the Week: Hermanus Camino
A Local Success Story Born Over a Beer

What started as a casual conversation over a beer in 2021 has grown into one of the Overberg's most sought-after walking experiences.

The Hermanus Camino was founded by Peter Kilpin, Andrew Kilpin and Leon van Rooyen, who initially explored the idea of creating a Midlands Meander-style scenic driving route through the beautiful countryside behind the Klein River Mountains.

After spending time driving the route and investigating its potential, the trio realised that the concept was unlikely to gain enough support from local landowners and businesses to make it sustainable. The idea was temporarily shelved.

Then, while travelling through the Tankwa Karoo after a visit to the Kgalagadi, Andrew noticed walkers taking part in the renowned Tankwa Camino.

"I came back and said to the guys, we've got it all wrong. We shouldn't be driving this route - we should be walking it."

That simple observation changed everything.

Between August and November 2021, the founders spent months walking potential routes, often covering around 14 to 15 kilometres a day, searching for suitable accommodation and ensuring each stage could comfortably accommodate groups of walkers. Finding establishments with enough rooms along the route proved challenging, but eventually the pieces began to fall into place.

The first Hermanus Camino launched in January 2022.

Since then, the Camino has grown steadily and today operates three departures per week during the walking season. While the route has evolved over time due to access changes, accommodation improvements and ongoing refinements, its core remains the same: showcasing some of the most spectacular landscapes the Overberg has to offer.

The modern route starts at the Windsor Hotel in Hermanus and takes walkers on a 70-kilometre circular journey around the Klein River Mountains. The trail passes through Tesselaarsdal, crosses the mountains into Stanford, continues towards Die Plaat and the coastline, before returning to Hermanus.

Walkers experience a remarkable variety of terrain over five days, including mountain trails, fynbos landscapes, river crossings, countryside tracks and pristine beach walks. Daily distances average around 14 kilometres, making the Camino accessible to a wide range of fitness levels while still offering a rewarding challenge.

The success of the Hermanus Camino has exceeded all expectations.

Today, the organisation runs between 90 and 100 Caminos each year, with groups limited to a maximum of 12 participants to preserve the personal experience. Most departures sell out well in advance, and bookings for the following year often begin filling while the current season is still underway.

While co-founder Leon van Rooyen stepped away from the business about a year ago to pursue other interests, Peter and Andrew continue to lead the operation alongside a dedicated support team that helps create the memorable experience guests have come to expect.

The Camino's success has also been made possible through strong partnerships with local businesses and hospitality providers, including the Windsor Hotel, Creation Wines, Springfontein Wine Estate, River Rat Cruises and a number of accommodation establishments and local service providers along the route.

More than just a walking trail, the Hermanus Camino has become a celebration of the region's landscapes, hospitality and community spirit. What began as an idea shared between friends has evolved into a tourism success story that continues to introduce visitors from across South Africa and beyond to the beauty of the Overberg, one step at a time.

For more information, routes and upcoming departures, visit the Hermanus Camino website - https://www.hermanuscamino.com/

📚 Legal Piece of the Week:
Storm damage and leased property. Is the tenant, landlord, or body corporate responsible for repairing weather-related damage?

As the cold, rainy weather prevails across South Africa’s coastal provinces and other parts of the country, storm-related property damage is inevitable. Often, this raises uncertainty regarding liability for repairing the damage when a property is leased. Accordingly, when a rental property is damaged as a result of heavy rains, gale force winds, or hail, is the tenant, landlord, or body corporate – in the case of sectional title properties – responsible for the cost of the repairs?

The broad legal framework
In South Africa, there is no single law that specifically regulates storm damage to leased property. Instead, responsibility is determined by a combination of common law lease principles, the terms of the lease agreement itself, the Rental Housing Act (‘the RHA’), and, where applicable, the Sectional Titles Schemes Management Act (‘the STSMA’). Under the law, whether responsibility rests with the tenant, landlord, or body corporate depends on the facts of each case, including the nature of the damage, where it occurred, and whether negligence contributed to the loss.

Common law principles remain the starting point
The primary legal framework governing the consequences of storm damage to rental properties is the common law.

Under common law lease principles, a landlord is generally required to provide the tenant with beneficial occupation of the premises and, subject to the terms of the lease, maintain the property in a condition reasonably suitable for the purpose for which it was leased. A tenant, in turn, is required to take reasonable care of the property and avoid causing damage through negligence.

When storm damage occurs, the central legal questions are typically:

• What caused the damage?

• Did either party act negligently?

• Has the tenant’s beneficial occupation of the property been affected?

• What obligations are imposed by the lease agreement?

Invariably, the answers to these questions will often determine responsibility for repairs and any resulting financial loss.

Is a tenant liable for storm damage?
Section 4(5)(e) of the RHA provides that a landlord may claim compensation for damage caused by the tenant, members of the tenant’s household, or visitors. However, a tenant is not automatically liable for storm damage simply because it occurs during the lease period. As a result, tenant liability generally arises only where negligence is established and the tenant’s conduct caused or materially contributed to the resulting damage.

Specifically, liability may arise where a tenant’s negligence worsens storm-related damage. For example, if the tenant negligently leaves all the windows unlatched and doors wide open during a violent storm resulting in smashed windowpanes, damaged doorframes, and broken chandeliers, they will likely be liable for the cost of repairs.

However, where damage is caused solely by severe weather or other natural events beyond the tenant’s control, responsibility will not ordinarily rest with the tenant.

Whether negligence exists will depend on the specific circumstances of each case.

What are a landlord’s obligations following storm damage?
Under the common law, the risk of loss or damage to the property’s structure or permanent fixtures caused by unforeseeable and uncontrollable events, such as winter storms, generally remains with the landlord. For instance, if severe hail damages the property’s roof sheets or heavy rains cause severe flooding, liability typically rests with the landlord.

In these circumstances, the landlord is responsible for addressing the damage as part of their common law obligation to maintain the property and ensure the tenant’s beneficial occupation. To that end, the landlord’s obligations may include arranging repairs to structural components of the property, addressing water ingress, repairing weather-related damage, and taking reasonable steps to restore the premises to a condition suitable for occupation.

The extent of the landlord’s responsibility, however, will depend on factors such as the nature of the damage, the terms of the lease agreement, and whether any act or omission by the tenant contributed to the loss.

Where storm damage substantially interferes with the tenant’s use and enjoyment of the property, common law remedies, such as remission of rental, i.e. a reduction in rental may apply. In severe cases where occupation becomes impossible, principles relating to supervening impossibility of performance may also arise.

The role of the body corporate in sectional title schemes
Where a rental property forms part of a sectional title scheme, liability for storm damage may extend beyond the landlord and tenant.

Section 3 of the STSMA sets out the functions of a body corporate. Specifically, these functions include maintaining common property, keeping it in a good and serviceable state of repair, establishing funds for maintenance and repairs, and ensuring that the buildings within the scheme are adequately insured.

As a result, responsibility for storm damage to leased property in sectional title scheme often depends on where the damage occurred.

Damage to common property, such as roofs, exterior walls, shared drainage systems, boundary walls, or other common infrastructure, will generally fall within the body corporate’s maintenance responsibilities.

Where damage is confined to an individual section and does not involve common property, responsibility generally rests with the owner, subject to the scheme’s rules, insurance arrangements, and the circumstances of the damage.

If a tenant’s negligence caused or contributed to the damage, the tenant may remain liable regardless of whether the property forms part of a sectional title scheme.

Lease agreements and the allocation of risk
Customarily, lease agreements may regulate maintenance responsibilities of landlords and tenants and establish procedures for addressing damage. However, lease provisions cannot override statutory protections or common law obligations.

Accordingly, provisions that seek to exclude or limit a landlord’s obligations will be interpreted subject to applicable legislation, public policy, constitutional values, and the specific circumstances of the case.

Clauses allocating limited maintenance responsibilities to tenants may be enforceable where they are lawful, clear, and reasonable. Conversely, clauses that seek to impose extensive liability on tenants for damage arising from events beyond their control may be subject to heightened scrutiny.

As such, each provision must be interpreted on its own terms and in accordance with prevailing legal principles.

Conclusion
In South Africa, storm damage to leased property is governed primarily by common law lease principles – and supplemented by the RHA and, where applicable, the STSMA.

A tenant is not automatically liable for storm damage and will generally only be responsible where negligence caused or contributed to the loss. A landlord typically bears responsibility for maintaining the leased premises and ensuring the tenant’s beneficial occupation. In sectional title schemes, the body corporate may be responsible for repairing damage to common property in terms of section 3 of the STSMA.

🌊 A Lasting Legacy for Hermanus:
The First Whale Legacy Tiles to Be Installed This Friday

This Friday marks an exciting milestone for Hermanus as the first Whale Legacy Tiles are installed at the future home of the South African Whale Centre.

The Whale Legacy Wall is a growing symbol of a community coming together around a shared vision: creating Africa's first whale science and education centre right here in Hermanus.

The South African Whale Centre will make ocean science accessible through immersive exhibitions, educational programmes, and an Open Lab where visitors can experience the science happening along our coastline. Building on the internationally recognised work of the MRI Whale Unit, the Centre aims to inspire a deeper understanding of our oceans while strengthening Hermanus' reputation as a world-leading marine destination.

The journey to make this vision a reality is an ambitious one, and it will only happen through the support of individuals, businesses, organisations, and partners who believe in what the Centre can become. The Whale Legacy Wall is one of the ways the community can be part of that journey. Contributions help sustain the campaign as it works towards securing the funding needed to bring the Centre to life.

Beyond the building itself, the project represents an investment in Hermanus' future. It has the potential to strengthen our local economy, create new opportunities for education and tourism, and provide a place where science, conservation, and community come together.

As the first Legacy Tiles are installed tomorrow, they mark the beginning of something much bigger than a fundraising initiative. They represent Hermanus locals choosing to support a vision for the future of our town and our oceans.

If you'd like to be part of the journey, you can learn more about the Whale Legacy Wall by visiting thesawc.co.za/donate, emailing [email protected], or following The South African Whale Centre on social media.

After all, when a community believes in a vision, remarkable things can happen.

Website: https://thesawc.co.za
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: The South African Whale Centre
Instagram: the.sawc

🏏 Supporting Local Cricket, On and Off the Field

The Hermanus Cricket Club has been bringing people together since 1952, and now it's inviting local businesses to be part of its next chapter.

The club has launched its Premier Club Sponsorship for the 2026–2029 seasons, offering businesses the chance to support local cricket while gaining year-round exposure through playing kits, social media, clubhouse signage, tournaments, and community events.

Sponsorship will help fund new playing shirts, training gear, and equipment, ensuring the club continues to grow and invest in the next generation of cricketers.

Interested in partnering with the club? Contact Lucas Jansen van Vuuren on 082 299 2492 to find out more. 🏏

📅 What's On This Week

Every Friday | Friday Run Clubs:

Friday Fun Run
📍 Mikro Coffee Co 🕕 6:00am | 3km & 5km loop
All paces welcome - the best way to start a Friday. Free coffee for first timers ☕

Onrus Run Club
📍 Starts and ends at Plato, Onrus 🕕 6:30am | Community Run
All paces welcome

Every Saturday | Hermanus Country Market 📍 Hermanus Cricket Club, corner of Fairways Ave & Jose Burman Drive 🕘 9:00am - 2:00pm | Free entry

The Saturday morning ritual. Fresh produce, local crafts, food stalls, and a relaxed community atmosphere - a great way to ease into the weekend.

Every Saturday | Hermanus Parkrun 📍 Hermanus Forest, Camphill Road, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley 🕗 8:00am | Free

A free, timed 5km run through the Hemel-en-Aarde - open to all ages and fitness levels. Just register once on the Parkrun website and bring a printed or digital barcode. A wonderful way to meet locals and start your Saturday morning right. Register & more info →

🎨 Hermanus First Fridays Artwalk
Heads up: First Fridays is on winter break for July and August, so there won't be an official Artwalk this month. Good news though — all the participating galleries remain open as usual, so you're welcome to wander and art walk at your own pace in the meantime.

🛍️ The Gift Market – Hermanus

The ultimate winter shopping experience is coming to Hermanus! Browse a curated selection of jewellery, home décor, fashion, and gifts - with dedicated sections for men, pets, and children. Grab a coffee, enjoy a deli treat, and discover the best of local gifting all under one roof.
📅 27 June - 12 July 2026
⏰ 10:00 - 18:00 daily (including Sundays)
📍 Curro, Hermanus
Click here for more info

Event Details

Growing Your Wealth Beyond the Stock Market
Date: 23 July 2026
Time: 14:00 – 17:00
Venue: Hermanus Golf Club

Join Sterling Private Clients for an insightful afternoon exploring investment opportunities beyond traditional stock market investments. Guests will enjoy engaging investment perspectives, fine wines, and great company in the beautiful setting of Hermanus Golf Club.

Highlights include:
- Guest Speaker: Albert Coetzee from Ninety One
- Wine Tasting hosted by Bouchard Finlayson Winery
- Hors d'oeuvres served
- Networking opportunities

Admission Fee: R100 per person
All proceeds will be donated to Overstrand Hospice.

RSVP by: 15 July 2026

For bookings or enquiries:
Rochelle du Toit
086 188 8987
[email protected]

For the kids in the holidays:

🎨 Kids Holiday Programme – Hemel-en-Aarde Village
Keep the kids busy and inspired this school holidays with a morning programme running throughout the break.
📅 29 June – 16 July 2026
⏰ 10:00 – 12:00
📍 Hemel-en-Aarde Village, Hermanus
💰 Programme fees from R100 – R200
📞 Bookings: 069 315 2875

📚 Library Holiday Programme - Hermanus Library
A wonderful school holidays activity for younger readers - mornings of stories, creativity, and fun at the Hermanus Library.
📅 30 June – 18 July 2026
⏰ 10:00 – 11:00
📍 Hermanus Library, Hermanus
💰 R50 per child
📞 Bookings: 028 313 8077

🌤️ Weather Forecast for Hermanus

Hermanus is in for a classic winter week, with cool temperatures, crisp mornings, and a healthy mix of sunshine and cloud. While a few light showers are expected midweek, there will still be plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy the Whale Coast.

⸻

Thursday 2 July 🌤️
A bright winter's day with sunny spells and only a slight chance of a passing shower.
14°C / 9°C
Winds: 10 / 7 m/s
Rain: ~0.9 mm

Friday 3 July 🌤️
Partly cloudy with mild temperatures and just a small chance of light rain.
15°C / 12°C
Winds: 11 / 4 m/s
Rain: ~0.5 mm

Saturday 4 July ☀️
A beautiful winter's day with sunshine, light winds, and comfortable temperatures.
17°C / 9°C
Winds: 4 / 2 m/s

Sunday 5 July ☀️
One of the pick days of the week, with sunshine and pleasant winter conditions.
18°C / 9°C
Winds: 6 / 2 m/s

Monday 6 July 🌤️🌦️
Mild with a mix of sunshine and cloud. A slight chance of a passing shower later in the day.
19°C / 12°C
Winds: 6 / 2 m/s
Rain: ~1.8 mm

Tuesday 7 July🌦️
A cooler day with cloud, occasional sunny breaks, and the possibility of a light shower.
15°C / 11°C
Winds: 3 / 2 m/s
Rain: ~0.3 mm

Overall, it looks like a lovely week to enjoy winter in Hermanus. While a few passing showers are expected around the middle of the week, they'll be short-lived, making way for sunshine and crisp conditions. The weekend is shaping up particularly well, with calm weather and mild temperatures. Perfect for a stroll along the cliff paths, a visit to the market, or a leisurely coffee overlooking the bay.

📷 Spotted in the Overberg:

Photo of the Week: Martin Etsebeth

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 cool, have a great day and we’ll see 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.

1 

2