Seagulls like beaded strings of pearls decorate the sea swell in Hermanus. The cliff top path that links one beautiful beach after another, reveals white trimmed waves tossing themselves ashore, borne on a breeze straight from the southernmost point on earth and it smells like slightly salty, heaven. Locals refer to it as champagne air.

Hermanus was once a sleepy seaside town for wealthy retirees

Nowadays, thanks to the internet allowing for working from home opportunities, young professionals have lowered the average age substantially, bringing with it, new schools, trendy restaurants, and delightful shops.

Ringed by mountains, the town is often referred to as the "Cape Cod of Africa" but locals will argue that Hermanus is unique, with its pure air and mantle of famous fynbos, permanently scenting it in a heady mix of fresh herbs and sea salt. The mountains that serve as a backdrop to the bay offer multiple opportunities to hikers and cyclists, paragliders, and hang gliders. The waves offer board surfing, body surfing, kite surfing and for the more adventurous, great white shark diving from the nearby town of Gansbaai. There is windsurfing on the lagoon and from September to November, incredible, land-based, whale viewing from the cliff top path.

Wine farms and great white shark diving

Within a short drive, one discovers well-known vineyard brands such as Creation, Sumaridge and Hamilton Russel, to name but a few of many well-known wine farms.

In the nearby Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, one finds vineyard luncheons, wine pairing meals and wine tasting sessions that are easy to book and affordable. Beautiful drives slightly further afield, through the Swartland mountain passes, drop visitors into the stunning Franschhoek Valley, home to multiple vineyards, art galleries, and fine dining venues.

Accommodation varies. There a number of boutique hotels, guest houses, and backpacker lodges. Many people prefer to book for self-catering homes which are available through local agents and Airbnb. The home we were privileged to enjoy, "Iridescence" has four bedrooms with 4 en-suite bathrooms, a large open lounge, dining, kitchen area and a balcony with a view.

Homes online range from 2 sleepers up to 10 or 15. Most homes offer an option, at extra cost, for cleaners to come in at least two or three times a week.

Bring the whole family for the best summer holiday you will ever have. Peak swimming season starts in December and the town is a well-known summer holiday destination for South Africans. If you are more flexible, the months of January, February and March are also warm and wonderful.

Come. Bring everyone! Have a seaside holiday where there are only two rules;

1) eat 'till you're tired and

2) sleep 'till you're hungry!