Kranspad-staproete

Spectacular Coastal Pathway with World-Class Whale Watching

The Kranspad-staproete (Cliff Path) is one of Hermanus' most cherished attractions, spanning approximately 10km along the coastline from New Harbour through the heart of town. This well-maintained pathway offers some of the best land-based whale watching opportunities in the world, particularly during whale season when Southern Right whales come close to shore with their calves.

What Makes This Trail Special

• Accessibility: Entirely paved or boardwalked with plenty of benches, making it suitable for almost all fitness levels
• Wildlife viewing: Spot whales, dassies (rock hyrax), dwarf chameleons, mongooses and occasionally seals
• Educational elements: Features a solar system scale model along the path and informative display boards explaining local flora and fauna
• Safety: Security personnel patrol the route during daylight hours

The path is dog-friendly and offers endless photo opportunities with dramatic clifftop views of Walker Bay. Each section of the trail reveals a different perspective, with the sea on one side and mountains on the other creating a truly spectacular setting.

Local Tips

Morning walks offer the best light for photography, particularly at sunrise. For whale watching (June to November), bring binoculars and look for the telltale V-shaped spray from blowholes. The path can get windy, so pack a jacket even on warm days.

Many locals recommend stopping at Frick's along the route, a popular spot to take a break. You'll notice numerous memorial benches along the way, each with its own story and often offering the best viewpoints.

The complete route can take 2-3 hours to walk, but visitors can access and exit the path at various points, making it easy to customize your experience. Free parking is available at several access points.