The Northern Cape seems to be blessed with a disproportionately high ‘lekker dorp count’ with Loeriesfontein being another hit on the list. With a lot of the off-the-beaten-track dorps, the only way you’re going to end up in town is if you are completely lost or specifically heading there.
Loeriesfontein is situated within a craggy section of the Hantam region, there is a diverse range of almost 4 000 plant species listed in the immediate area. The town is known as the ‘Windmill capital of the Northern Cape’. Loeriesfontein organically grew around a general dealer, originally established in 1894 and still going strong today.
Spring coincides with the annual wildflower bloom in the area, but there is also the Vygies (Mesembrianthemum) and the Quiver tree flowering seasons to look forward to. The weather is relatively mild, with short, cold and wet winters, and summers which are both hot and dry.
Did You Know? The origin of the town’s name has never been fully established, and it could be named either for the flamboyant Loerie bird (Touraco corythaix) or after a travelling Jewish salesman by the name of Lurie. Most likely the latter, as the loerie is not found in this area.
The Quiver Tree Forest nearby is well worth a visit, with a beautiful display of quiver trees upon quiver trees. The forest is one of the wo...