attractions in sutherland south africa
Astronomical Observatory in sutherland
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.
sutherland Walking Trails
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 in sutherland
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 in sutherland
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
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 in South Africa
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 sutherland
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.