The South African Astronomical Observatory in Sutherland in the Northern Cape.
Image: SAAO / File
WITH its crisp air, star-studded skies, and the occasional dusting of snow, Sutherland in the Northern Cape is fast becoming a favourite cool-weather escape - a frontrunner in South Africa’s growing “coolcation” trend.
This remote Karoo gem, known for its crystal-clear skies and soul-stirring silence, is leading the way for travellers eager to trade sunburn for stargazing.
Sutherland is home to the South African Astronomical Observatory’s main observing site. Located just outside town, the facility includes the famed Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), the largest single optical telescope in the southern hemisphere. With some of the clearest and darkest skies in Africa, the region draws stargazers and scientists alike to unlock the mysteries of the cosmos.
The town’s high altitude and semi-arid Karoo climate make it a prime destination for clear night skies and - on lucky winter days - the occasional flurry of snow. Add to that scenic hiking trails, 4x4 routes, and panoramic views from Akkerendam Nature Reserve, and Sutherland cements its place as South Africa’s flagship coolcation destination.
Whether you’re chasing snowflakes or constellations, Sutherland makes the case for trading beach towels for thermal jackets.
The trend of “coolcations” - holidays in cooler, more temperate regions - is growing globally, and South Africa’s diverse climate makes it a strong contender. With heatwaves increasingly affecting summer tourism in Europe and elsewhere, many travellers are rethinking their ideal escape and looking instead to high-altitude towns, scenic valleys, and windswept plains where the air is fresh, the evenings crisp, and outdoor adventures abound.
A couple stargazes and enjoys the warmth of an outdoor fire during their coolcation.
Image: Atiabii / Pexels
Here are four more coolcation contenders proving that South Africa’s chill factor is anything but boring:
Graaff-Reinet: The jewel of the Karoo
A few hours east of Sutherland lies Graaff-Reinet, the Eastern Cape’s historic treasure chest. With over 220 national monuments and graceful Cape Dutch architecture, this “Gem of the Karoo” offers culture, heritage, and a strong dose of charm. Nearby, Camdeboo National Park’s Valley of Desolation provides towering dolerite cliffs and panoramic hiking trails - ideal for anyone seeking solitude with a view.
Clarens: Artistic soul of the Free State
Nestled in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, Clarens is a canvas of creativity and colour. Known for its galleries, craft shops, and the famed Artists' Amble, it’s also a gateway to the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. Scenic sandstone formations and cosy cafés complete the picture in a town where winter brings clear blue skies and crisp, golden mornings.
A road leading to Clarens, a coolcation hotspot at the foot of the Maluti Mountains.
Image: Kaue Fonseca / Unsplash
Balgowan: Midlands magic in KwaZulu-Natal
Rolling hills, misty mornings, and a patchwork of farmlands await in Balgowan, heart of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands Meander. It’s a place where gourmet food meets rustic charm, and local art lines the roads like breadcrumbs guiding you through one of the country’s most tranquil regions. Birdwatchers, hikers, and those chasing a slower pace of life will feel right at home here.
Ceres: Snow, slopes and zip-lines in the Western Cape
When winter comes knocking, Ceres opens the door with snow-capped peaks, thrilling zip-lining over the Skurweberg Mountains, and crisp mornings perfect for hiking or apple-picking. Adventure-seekers flock to Matroosberg for snowboarding and skiing, while the Breede River offers white-knuckle rafting for the brave. It's a pocket-sized paradise where nature writes the itinerary.
As summer retreats and the mercury dips, South Africa reveals a cooler side - one filled with quiet beauty, outdoor escapades, and fireside charm. Whether you're chasing snowflakes, exploring historic towns, or simply savouring the stillness, there’s never been a better time to discover what a true coolcation looks like.
A traveller camping in the Karoo, a region shared between the Northern Cape and Eastern Cape.
Image: Frans van Heerden / Pexels