Ceres, which is said to be named after the Roman goddess of agriculture, is situated in the Warmbokkeveld Valley about 106 miles north-east of Cape Town.
As the gateway to the Route 62, Ceres is often the starting point for those taking more of a back-road trip from city to city. The road through Ceres became the main route to the north when diamonds were discovered in Kimberley in the late 1800’s. These days the route is known as the ‘Forgotten Highway’ and is fast developing as a tourist attraction. The town is rich in history with many historical buildings to tell its story, however after an earthquake struck in 1969 many of the original buildings were damaged.
Situated in a wonderfully fertile area, Ceres is one of South Africa’s top producers of deciduous fruit. Export quality fresh and dried fruit, fruit juices and natural spring water is produced here. Famous for not only its snow but its cherries in summer. Cherry picking is a huge crowd pleaser at Klondyke Farm.
The town’s climate is controlled by its altitude with frequent snowfalls at higher ground during winter, but rarely on the valley floor. Shrouded in white the mountains provide a beautiful backdrop during winter, giving the area its nickname of “Little Switzerland”.
Tip: Ceres will seem like a metropolis compared to anything seen since Bloemfontein. Not being on the N1 means that 24-hour service can be limited, but a 24-hour garage shop or 2 should serve basic needs.