SA Astronomical Observatory
The SAAO is the
national centre for optical and infrared astronomy in South
Africa. Its prime function is to conduct fundamental research in
astronomy and astrophysics by providing a world-class facility
and by promoting astronomy and astrophysics in Southern Africa.
This is also where you will find the Southern African Large
Telescope (SALT). There are daily guided tours to the Observatory 18 km out of
town consisting of displays in the visitors centre followed by
taking a look at the inside of the majestic SALT telescope.
It is vital to make a booking at SALT by calling 023 5712 436 to
make a booking at 10h30 or 14h30 Monday to Saturday. Only a
limited number of persons are allowed. On Saturdays there is
also an additional hourly tour from 09h00 to 15h00 to cope with
the number of visitors.
Walking Trails
Rita Wagener has put together a 3 to 15 km Walking Trail that
doesn't just offer beautiful scenery, but also explains the
geology and plants found on the Middelfontein farm. A selection
of Karoo birds for the enthusiast bird watchers. No Bookings
are required, however permission to enter the farm is required.
Please enquire at the Kambrokind House and most importantly pick
up a copy of the Brochure with names and explanations of all the
numbered items along the walking trail. Free if staying at
Kambro Kind or Middelfontein Farm. For quests from outside we
charge R50 per person (no dogs allowed). There is also a historically walking trail in
town that you can walk or even drive explaining the history of
the buildings.
We supply a booklet with all information.
Mountain Biking
The Mountain Bike Trail is a single track situated at Middelfontein Farm.
This trail offers with it some beautiful scenery, however it is
also very challenging. Free if staying at Kambro Kind or
Middelfontein Farm. For quests from outside we charge R50 per
person (no dogs allowed).
No bookings are required, however permission to enter the farm
is required, so please be sure to enquire at the Kambrokind
House. (Kindly note we don't rent out bicycles)
Stargazing with Jurg
Star gazing sessions presented by Jurg Wagener can be done almost every night throughout
the year. Remember to "dress up for the occasion". Evenings are
cool so in order for you to enjoy the program more thoroughly,
being warmly dressed is essential.
Our show lasts 1.5 hours. You as the star
gazer are first treated with an indoor presentation on a three
meter size screen with explanations of the constellations and
size of the universe. A short DVD about Sutherland is also
shown. Astronomy related posters and books including Wayne
Mitchell's STAR GAZER'S DEEP SPACE ATLAS will be on display.
Dutch Reformed Church Sutherland
The Dutch Reformed Church was completed in 1902 and only took 14 months to
build. Designed by Charles Freeman who also designed the
Standard Bank in Cape Town and the Dutch Reformed Church in Graaff Reinet, it was built by John Delbridge. The design of the
church is Neo Gothic in the form of a cross and dressed stone
from a quarry in the vicinity it was used.
On 3 September 1901 an English garrison claimed the church as a
barrack. The invasion lasted eight months and the once beautiful
building was left in a pitful state of repair. Valuable carpets
had to be replaced and light fittings disappeared. Door bolts
were gone and graffiti, some still visible adorned the walls of
the church.
Sutherland Planetarium
Sutherland Planetarium offers a variety of fulldome 3D shows all
astronomy related.
Sutherland Planetarium is located in the centre of Sutherland en
route to the Southern African Large Telescope.It is the latest
and only privately owned Digital Planetarium in South Africa.
The 30-seater Planetarium is open 7 days a week showcasing a
wide range (54) of 3-D Fulldome films to ensure educational
entertainment for the whole family.
Visit
http://www.sutherlandplanetarium.co.za for more information.
Louwhouse
The Louwhouse is the birthplace of the poet/writer brothers N.P.
van Wyk Louw and W.E.G. Louw. The house with tender memories of
all mercies received, wonderful words and great thoughts, was
built in 1861 but was not restored in it's original form. The
well known concave veranda is one of those additions.
Behind the house was a large yard where a water tank and a
stable for the two cart horses and stallion belonging to their
father Molkie Louw were kept. At present the house is used as a
literary museum, and also to honour Sutherlanders who have left
their mark in society. Booking Essential.
Sutherland Accommodation Northern Cape South Africa • Stargazing Accommodation
in Sutherland • Sutherland Farm Accommodation • Kambrokind
Guesthouse in Sutherland
Website Development by
Design Connection.
All Rights Reserved © 2024.
Photos used in fade by: Mujahid,
www.mujahidurrehman.com.