Sutherland sits on the Roggeveld Plateau 1 450m above sea level is known for its brilliant night skies and cold, biting winters, known to be the coldest place in SA.
The ‘sterboom’ (star tree), which blossoms in September is found on farms in the region. Birthplace of Afrikaans author and poet NP Van Wyk Louw, the town is said to produce the finest mutton in the country and is home to the world-renowned South African Astronomical Observatory. The region is also home to the endangered Riverine Rabbit.
Another claim to fame this town has is that it was the most southerly place where diamonds were discovered in South Africa, and old diamond diggings can still be seen in the area.
For outdoor enthusiasts, there are an array of activities in Sutherland, including horse-riding and hiking.
Should you visit the observatory, also look out for Salpeterkop, an extinct volcano that was last active 66-million years ago (and the last active volcano in Africa south of the equator).
- SALT
- The extinct volcano, Saltpeterkop
- Old diamond diggings
- Tankwa Karoo National Park
