Established in 1854, Ceres is the centre of one of the most important deciduous fruit producing areas in South Africa. Named after the Roman goddess of agriculture.
Ceres is situated 140km or 90 minutes drive from Cape Town. The town is surrounded by mountains, which shelter it completely from the south-easterly wind in summer. Ceres is fortunate to have more that 230 sunny days per year which makes it an ideal tourist destination. The town can only be reached via three mountain passes; namely Michell's Pass from Cape Town and Worcester (R43), the Gydo Pass from the Koue Bokkeveld (R303) and Citrusdal (N7) and Theronsberg Pass from Touwsrivier and the N1 (R46).
San rock paintings, biking trails, 4x4 routes, mountain bike routes, scenic drives, horse riding, fresh water fishing, fruit farm tours and cherry picking in season, nature and game reserves are some of the many attractions the area has to offer. The not so adventurous can relax with a glass of wine, watching the sunset over the valley of fruitfulness.
For accommodation in Ceres click here.
Ceres Climate
Overall, Ceres has a mediterranean climate, with hot dry summers days and cold wet winters, with frequent snowfalls on the surrounding higher-lying ground, rarely falling on the valley floor itself.
The average summer (October to February) temperature is 28 °C. To many March to April signal idyllic weather, summers heat subsides and the wind settles. Winter’s (May to July) temperatures range from 3.8°C lows at night and a comfortable 15.2°C by day. However, with the onset of spring (from August to October), the fast-retreating winter merges with the summer sun, bringing forth some of the worlds most spectacular wild flower displays.