HANOVER is fast becoming the TRAVELLERS, TRUCKERS AND
TOURIST DESTINATION. A small but hospitable Karoo town, half way to everywhere.
The houses, some dating back to the mid 1800’s, are built on the street, similar
to what you will find throughout Europe. Typical Karoo architecture prevails and
restoration is ongoing. The church that dominates the town’s skyline is
arguably; the most beautiful in South Africa and a guided tour of the interior
especially the clock tower is a must. This, the third NGK Church building on
this spot was designed by architect WH Ford in the early 1900’s.
Olive Schreiner, the famous author (‘Story of an African farm’) lived here from
1900 to 1907. She was a woman’s right’s pioneer (‘Woman and Labour’) who had
strong political views about the Anglo Boer War, and a friend of many of the
prominent characters of her day. During this war the British forces restricted
her to her house for being a ‘Boer Supporter’. A local and American author now
owns Olive Schreiner’s old home. Her avid interest in Olive has led her to set
up a small museum in the house. The ‘Schreiner House’ will in time become an
artist or writers retreat. A self-guided walk ‘In the footsteps of Olive
Schreiner’ takes you to all the significant historical sites around town.
Up to 12 000 Lesser Kestrels roost in Hanover from October to March each year.
These migrants from Russia and Eastern Europe fill the sky at sunset as they
return from their foraging in the wide-open plains surrounding Hanover.
A full country buffet served with home grown ‘Karoo Lamb’ is always on the menu
at the world famous 3 Darling Street Guesthouse. If that doesn’t appeal to you
try a ‘Karoo Lamb’ and Mint Sauce pizza from Papa Luigi’s Pizzeria. You never
know whom you’ll meet in their eclectic pub. Mark Banks, Wouter de Wet, Des and
Dawn Lindberg, ‘pluk kappertjiesaad in die tuin van Nommer Drie Darling Straat’,
Laurika Rauch, to name just a few. Experience ‘A Touch of Karoo Madness’ in
their gift shop
Exotic water birds are not something one associates with the dry Karoo.
Feathered Friends has an interesting collection, including teals, whistling
ducks, mandarins, wood ducks and black and white swans. The pub and restaurant
has a warm and vibrant atmosphere, here you’ll meet many ‘Karoo Characters’
enjoying their habitual tipple and the best braaied steaks in the Northern Cape.
Hanover hut has the only swimming pool in town and if you stay over in their
comfortable chalets you’ll have exclusive rights to cooling off in it’s crystal
clear water after your long weary journey.
Mams Megatown offers you air conditioning in summer or under floor heating in
winter to make your stay comfortable. The fully fitted self-catering chalets are
also sound proofed to guarantee a peaceful sleep.
Wortelfontein Guest Farm has an interesting history and offers you two fully
fitted chalets built out of stone from the surrounding countryside. A family
unit and a more intimate version for that romantic get away so necessary to fuel
that vital relationship. An extensive range of activities won’t allow you to be
bored for a moment. Therefore an extended stay is a must.
New Holme Guest Farm is known for it’s superb accommodation, friendly
hospitality and well organized hunting safaris. They cater for groups, family’s,
the romantic get away or whatever your needs may be. The catering is superb or
if you prefer, make use of their comfortable lapa overlooking the endless Karoo
and have a braai.
A hotel, guesthouses, guest farms, B&B establishments abound and offer varied
accommodation packages.
The classy Agora gift and craft shop on the N1 will definitely have something
that’ll take your fancy, their sit down restaurant serves delicious teas and
home cooked meals.
The Karoo Butchery on the southern side of the N1 stocks tempting dry wors,
biltong, ostrich and Karoo lamb.
De Aar: http://www.angelfire.com/tv2/deaar/newpage13.htm
Emthanjeni Municipality (De Aar, Hanover, Britstown): http://www.deaar.cjb.net
Northern Cape Tourism: http://www.sa-venues.com/northern_cape.htm