Old Vines, New Chapters

Hello Hermanus!

There's something inspiring about people who choose to invest in our community. Whether it's sharing Hermanus stories with the world or quietly building a world-class business rooted right here on our doorstep, it's these stories that make our town such a special place to call home.

This week, we're shining a light on Alheit Vineyards, the Hemel & Aarde Ridge winery run by a family who grew up spending their summers in Hermanus and never really left. We're also taking a look inside The Marine's newly reimagined Pavilion Restaurant, where over 120 years of history meet a fresh new look and menu. STBB explains what you need to know when selling as a non-resident, or buying from one, and we've got advice from Overstrand Aesthetics on how to adjust your skincare routine as your skin changes over time. Alongside that, we've rounded up plenty of events to fill your diary and another classic winter forecast for the week ahead.

Let's get into it.

In this week's edition:

🏡 Property of the Week: 7 Bedroom House for Sale in Sandbaai
🍷 Business of the Week: Alheit Vineyards
⚖️ Legal Corner: STBB explains: Selling as a non-resident or purchasing from a non-resident seller? What you should know
✨ Overstrand Aesthetics: Your Skin Has Changed. Has Your Skincare?
🍽️ Local Feature: The Marine Unveils a New Chapter for the Pavilion Restaurant
🎓 Schools: Term 3 is back, Mr & Miss Hoërskool Hermanus, and a proud moment for matric pupil Stefan Botha
📅 What's On: Live music, business talks, markets, family activities and more

Here's to supporting local, celebrating community achievements, and making the most of another beautiful week in Hermanus.

The Hermanus Scoop Team 🐋

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

The Whale Coast : "Where Sea, Mountain and Family Meet"

Perched just outside Hermanus, this home occupies one of the area’s most prized positions, a rare vantage where sweeping sea views meet a dramatic mountain backdrop. The Seller recalls: “From the moment we first saw it, we were struck with a single thought: Wow! Perfect location and endless potential. We bought it as a long-term investment in family time and lasting value, and for years it has been our holiday sanctuary, its unrivalled position the very reason it outshone every other property we considered.”

View the full property here.

 🍷 Business of the Week: Alheit Vineyards

For Chris Alheit, Hermanus was never really a new place, it's where he spent every childhood summer. He grew up in Cape Town, but his parents bought a holiday house in Voëlklip, which the family still owns, and Hermanus was where the Alheits came to unwind year after year. So when "Oom" Hans Evenhuis - owner of Hemelrand farm on the Hemel & Aarde Ridge - offered, in early 2010, to convert an old barn on the property into a winery and asked whether Chris and Suzaan might be interested in starting their project there, it wasn't a hard sell. The couple, who'd met at Stellenbosch University and spent years travelling the world chasing harvests, packed up and settled at Hemelrand in November 2010 moving into what was, in Chris's words, a simple, barn-converted winery. They always assumed they'd eventually move back to Stellenbosch. Three kids and fifteen years of building a life here later, that plan quietly fell away.

What sets the Alheits apart is where they don't grow grapes. Rather than farming one estate, Chris spends his time tracking down forgotten old bush vines scattered across the Cape, from the Skurfberg and Piekenierskloof down through the Paardeberg, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and the False Bay coast and bottles the best of what he finds as honestly as he can. Their goals are simple: to make wines with a clear sense of Cape identity, and to show that the Cape's vinous heritage is worth celebrating and protecting. In the cellar that philosophy translates into a hands-off approach: no yeasts, no enzymes, no acidification, no sulphur before ferment, no new barrels, no fining - no manipulation. As Chris puts it, they're hoping to find the voice of the land, not the mark of the winemaker.

That approach has made Alheit Vineyards, and its flagship blend Cartology, something of a legend since the maiden 2011 vintage. Tim Atkin MW named Chris his Winemaker of the Year, calling him arguably the Cape's most exciting up-and-coming producer, and the accolades haven't slowed since. Atkin has since awarded a perfect 100 points to the 2024 Magnetic North and the 2023 Nautical Dawn. The Wine Advocate scored that very first Cartology, the 2011 vintage, 96 points, and their scores for the wine have stayed in that rarefied territory ever since. But for Chris, the accolades aren't really the point. What he comes back to is the town itself: the community, their church, the beaches, and the simple pleasure of walking into the shops and knowing the people around him. He and Suzaan have been involved with the local school (Hermanus Primary) for years, pitching in on projects to support the school community, and Suzaan is a regular on the cliff path.

Don't expect a tasting room, though. Alheit Vineyards doesn't open its doors to the public. Locally, you'll find their wines on the shelves at Hemel-en-Aarde Village Wines and Wine & Co in town, and once a year Chris releases a small allocation directly to the public via his mailing list - so if you want to buy straight from the source, your best bet is to sign up and keep an eye out for the release.

For a family with roots on both sides of a life on the road, Alheit Vineyards has become a quiet point of pride for Hermanus, proof that some of the finest wine in the world is being made, patiently and without fuss, by a family who never really left home.

Find out more at alheitvineyards.co.za.

📚 Legal Piece of the Week with STBB: Selling as a non-resident or purchasing from a non-resident seller? What you should know

Under South African law, non-resident sellers may face an unexpected withholding tax liability of up to 15% of the purchase price. However, with the right legal guidance, sellers can avoid unwanted complications.

The legal basis for withholding tax

Section 35A of the Income Tax Act places a legal obligation on a purchaser of property – via the conveyancer – to withhold a portion of the purchase price in certain instances, i.e. when the seller is a non-resident and the purchase price exceeds R2 million.

The withheld amount must be paid over to the South African Revenue Service (‘SARS’) to cover any potential liability of the seller. If the property was previously let, a non-resident seller may be liable for tax in South Africa on rental income. Alternatively, they may be liable for the payment of capital gains tax on the profit realised from the sale.

SARS will then apply the withheld amount to any taxes due. If the amount exceeds the tax owed, the excess will be refunded to the seller after SARS has finalised its assessment.

Section 35A therefore enables the expedient collection of taxes owed by non-resident sellers, as it can be costly and impractical to do so once the seller has left the country.

What percentage must be withheld?

At present, the withholding tax rates are:

• 7.5% if the seller is a non-resident natural person

• 10% if the seller is a non-resident company

• 15% if the seller is a non-resident trust

When must withholding tax be paid?

The withheld amount must be paid to SARS within 14 days from the date of withholding, which is typically the date the transfer is registered at the relevant Deeds Registry.

Non-compliance has serious consequences

If the purchaser knew or should have reasonably known that the seller is a non-resident and failed to withhold the required amount, the purchaser becomes personally liable to pay the amount to SARS, plus interest and penalties for late payment.

Moreover, estate agents and conveyancers involved in such transactions are required to notify the purchaser in writing (before payment to the seller) that section 35A may apply. If the agent or conveyancer knew or should have reasonably known that the seller is a non-resident and failed to warn the purchaser, they may be held jointly and severally liable, although their liability is capped at the value of their remuneration.

How we can help sellers reduce or eliminate the withheld amount

At STBB, we proactively assist non-resident sellers early in the conveyancing process by applying to SARS for a tax directive. Critically, this directive may reduce or even eliminate the amount to be withheld. Without this directive, standard withholding rates may result in substantial sums being retained – up to 15% of the purchase price – often exceeding actual tax liability. Furthermore, applying for a refund from SARS can take considerable time and place unnecessary financial strain on non-resident sellers.

For expert legal support in all property-related matters, contact STBB Hermanus today.

✨ Your Skin Has Changed. Has Your Skincare?

You haven't changed your routine, but your skin has.

Maybe it feels drier than it used to. Fine lines seem more noticeable, pigmentation has appeared, or your favourite products just aren't giving you the same results anymore.

These are some of the most common concerns we see at Overstrand Aesthetics, especially in women over 40.

The good news is that healthy skin isn't about buying more products. It's about understanding what your skin needs at this stage of life.

Whether you're concerned about ageing, pigmentation, dryness, acne scarring, or simply want healthier skin, every journey at Overstrand Aesthetics starts with a personalised skin consultation. From there, we'll guide you through the treatments and professional skincare best suited to your skin and your goals.

If you'd like to understand why your skin changes over time, we've also put together a helpful guide that explores what's happening beneath the surface and how to support your skin through every stage of life.

Learn more about why your skin is changing

Overstrand Aesthetics 
[email protected]
+27-73 755 5821

🍽️The Marine unveils a new chapter for the Pavilion Restaurant with elegant redesign and fresh culinary inspiration

The Marine in Hermanus, one of South Africa's most iconic seaside hotels, has unveiled the beautifully reimagined Pavilion Restaurant following an extensive refurbishment of the hotel's ground-floor public spaces. It heralds a sophisticated new dining experience while remaining true to the timeless character that has defined The Marine for more than 120 years - combining elegant new interiors with an inspired new menu by Tronette Dippenaar, Group Executive Chef of the Liz McGrath Collection and Head Chef Oelof Vorster.

Designed by Dawn Dickerson and Carmel Naudé of HotCocoa Interiors and Design, the Pavilion Restaurant has been transformed with a refreshingly modern luxe brasserie-meets-greenhouse aesthetic, featuring a dramatic installation of 50 glass pendant lights suspended above lush botanical greenery as focal point.  Inspired by the extraordinary fynbos landscape surrounding Hermanus, the interiors celebrate the natural beauty of Walker Bay through a calming palette of greens, textured finishes and bespoke artistic details, resulting in a space that feels both timeless and contemporary.

In the restaurant original black-and-white tiled flooring has been retained and complemented by green marble accents and timber tables with traditional turned legs, curved green velvet banquette seating and elegant upholstered chairs with artistic fynbos printed backs.  Iconic arched windows  present endless sea views on the one side, while the restaurant flows effortlessly onto the hotel's sheltered courtyard and pool terrace on the opposite side, creating an inviting indoor-outdoor dining destination.

The reopening also introduces an exciting new menu brought to the table by Head Chef Oelof Vorster, whose ingredient-led approach showcases the finest seasonal produce from the Overberg and beyond. Since joining The Marine at the end of 2022, Vorster has established a distinctive culinary identity that combines classical technique with contemporary South African flavours, presented with understated elegance.

Armed with a diploma in Culinary Arts and Professional Cooking, Vorster brings a wealth of experience gained at some of South Africa's most celebrated restaurants, including Le Chêne at Leeu Estate, Pierneef à La Motte, Le Petit Colombe and Jordan Restaurant, complemented by valuable international experience at Stora Hotellet Bryggan in Sweden.

Reflecting the hotel's spectacular coastal setting, the new Pavilion menu places fresh local ingredients centre stage, celebrating bold flavours and refined presentation. Signature dishes include crisp Tempura Prawns, served with chilli aioli, rice noodles, soya reduction, pickled ginger, toasted sesame and vegetable julienne, alongside a fragrant Green Seafood Curry featuring line fish, prawns and mussels in a vibrant lemongrass and lime-infused curry, served with sticky fragrant rice and pickled onion. To end on a sweet note, the elegant Marine Pavlova combines tangy orange curd, silky white chocolate mousse, pistachio sponge, berry gel and strawberry ice cream in a beautifully balanced dessert that is as visually striking as it is delicious.

Honouring the rich culinary heritage of The Liz McGrath Collection, some of the late Mrs Liz McGrath's much-loved signature recipes remain firmly on the menu by popular demand. Among the enduring favourites are her legendary Dalewood Huguenot Cheese Soufflé and the iconic Dark Chocolate Fondant as tribute to the founder’s passion for gracious hospitality and exceptional food, seamlessly complementing Chef Oelof Vorster's contemporary seasonal creations.

Whether starting the day with breakfast overlooking Walker Bay, enjoying a leisurely lunch served poolside or on the terrace, or settling in for an unforgettable dinner of beautifully crafted seasonal dishes, diners can expect cuisine that is refined yet approachable, celebrating the finest local ingredients and the flavours of the season. Open to both resident guests and non-resident diners by reservation, the Pavilion Restaurant offers one of Hermanus' most memorable dining experiences.

The Pavilion Restaurant forms part of a wider refurbishment that includes the hotel's reception, cocktail bar and connecting public spaces. While every area has been thoughtfully reimagined, no structural alterations were made to the historic building, preserving the architectural integrity and enduring charm of ‘the grand old lady of Hermanus’.

The Marine has been a defining feature of Hermanus since 1902 and has formed part of The Liz McGrath Collection since 1998. Together with its sister properties, The Cellars-Hohenort in Cape Town and The Plettenberg in Plettenberg Bay, the hotel is a proud member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. 

🎓 Schools

Term 3 is officially underway, with Hermanus schools back in session as of this week.

Next week, Hoërskool Hermanus hosts its Mnr. & Mej. / Mr & Miss Hoërskool Hermanus High School event, with entertainment from GSTRiNG and MC Kyle Philander.
📅 30 July 2026 | 🕠 17:30 for 18:00
📍 Hoërskool Hermanus Skoolsaal / Hermanus High School Hall
💰 R150pp
🎟️ Tickets available from all finalists or the school's Financial Office.

Also proud news from Hoërskool Hermanus: matric pupil Stefan Botha represented South Africa in Russia as the country's young photography ambassador, where he received certificates and medals on behalf of South Africa's young photographers and gave two interviews to the Russian press. The South African Photography Society has praised him for representing the country with distinction, well done, Stefan!

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It is with deep sadness that we share the news of a tragic car accident over the school holidays that claimed the lives of an entire Hermanus family, including Izak van Jaarsveldt, a Grade 6 learner at Hermanus Primary. Izak's older brother matriculated from Hoërskool Hermanus in 2024. Our thoughts are with the family's loved ones, and with the Hermanus Primary and Hoërskool Hermanus communities during this incredibly difficult time.

📅 What's On

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 →

♟️ Chess Night at Mr. Write
📅 23 July | 🕕 6:00 – 8:00pm
📍 Mr. Write, Hermanus
💰 R100
Another evening of chess at the Checkered Table, where everyone leaves with a good game but only one takes home the prize — plus an extra prize up for grabs for Best Junior. Beginners welcome. Inbox Mr. Write on Facebook to book your spot.

💰 Growing Wealth Beyond the Stock Market
📅 23 July | 🕑 2:00 – 5:00pm
📍 Hermanus Golf Club
💰 R100pp
A talk from Sterling Private Clients on building wealth outside of traditional stock market investing. Bookings: 086 188 8987, or via sterlingprivateclients.co.za.

🍝 Pop-Up Dinner: Una Serata in Bianco
📅 29 July
📍 Dal-Italia Italian Deli, Aberdeen Street, Hermanus
A "White Night" pop-up dinner celebrating the magic of the full moon, Dal-Italia style — inspired dining at the Deli on Aberdeen. Bookings: 028 313 0333 or www.dal-italia.co.za.

🍷 Patience Poured: A Retrospective of Bouchard Finlayson's Finest Vintages
📅 29 July | 🕕 6:30 – 8:30pm
📍 POP UP by Bouchard Finlayson, Ground Floor, Harbour Square Hotel, 5 Harbour Road, Hermanus
💰 R850
A contemplative winter tasting through Bouchard Finlayson's finest vintages — exploring how tension softens and structure unfurls as each wine matures into a record of its season. Tickets: shop.bouchardfinlayson.co.za.

What's Ahead:

🌤️ Weather Forecast for Hermanus

After a wet and blustery start to the week, Hermanus is in for a welcome stretch of improving winter weather. Thursday still carries the tail-end of the passing cold front, but from Friday onwards conditions steadily brighten, with crisp mornings, sunny afternoons and temperatures climbing to a very pleasant 20°C by the middle of next week.

⸻

Thursday 23 July 🌧️
The last of the rain clears through the day, with cloudy skies, fresh winds and a cool winter feel lingering into the evening.
14°C / 12°C
Winds: 11 / 5 m/s
Rain: ~7.1 mm

Friday 24 July 🌤️
A much brighter day with sunshine returning after a chilly morning. Light winds make for comfortable conditions.
15°C / 8°C
Winds: 5 / 2 m/s

Saturday 25 July ☀️
A beautiful winter’s day with plenty of sunshine, cool early temperatures and a mild afternoon that’s perfect for getting outdoors.
17°C / 7°C
Winds: 6 / 3 m/s

Sunday 26 July 🌤️
Another settled day with sunshine and only the slightest chance of a passing shower. Ideal weather for a stroll along the coast.
17°C / 8°C
Winds: 3 / 2 m/s
Rain: ~0.1 mm

Monday 27 July 🌦️
Cloud increases slightly and a few light showers are possible, but there should still be plenty of dry spells through the day.
16°C / 10°C
Winds: 7 / 1 m/s
Rain: ~2.6 mm

Tuesday 28 July ☀️
Dry, bright and comfortably mild with plenty of sunshine and a gentle breeze.
17°C / 10°C
Winds: 7 / 4 m/s

Wednesday 29 July ☀️
The warmest day of the week, with abundant winter sunshine and temperatures reaching a delightful 20°C.
20°C / 8°C
Winds: 6 / 1 m/s

Overall, it’s a week that gets better with each passing day. Once Thursday’s rain moves through, Hermanus settles into a classic run of crisp winter mornings and sunny afternoons. The weekend looks particularly inviting for outdoor markets, whale spotting or a walk along the Cliff Path, while Wednesday promises a real taste of winter sunshine at its very best.

📷 Spotted in the Overberg:

Photo of the Week: Andy Thompson

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 (check out their brand new space which we will feature next week!). 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.