Hanover, a small town in the heart of the Karoo, is often referred to as the "town in the middle of South Africa" due to its central location, halfway between major cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town, as well as between Durban and Upington. In its prime, Hanover was a significant stop for travellers, with nearly all routes passing through the town. The town has a rich history and was once home to the famous author and women's rights advocate, Olive Schreiner, who lived here with her husband from 1900 to 1907. Her typical Karoo cottage, with its iron roof and stoep, is now a national monument on the corner of Grace and New Streets. Hanover retains the charm of a traditional Karoo town, with life moving at a slow, steady pace and little disruption, apart from the busy N1 highway that runs between the town and its cemetery. Though small, Hanover is fascinating and has managed to preserve much of its 19th-century character, with well-preserved examples of historical architecture. For a different perspective, visitors can hike up Trappieskop, a hill just outside the town, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Despite its humble size, the area’s historical significance is marked by the original site of South Africa's first observatory, which was later relocated to Sutherland.
