Free State - Wide Open Spaces, Majestic Mountains and the City of Roses

Characterized by flat, wide open spaces, broken by majestic mountains, the fertile farming area of the Free State Province of South Africa is often referred to as the ‘bread-basket’ of the country. The Free State lies in the heart of the country, bordering the Kingdom of Lesotho to the south east – a landlocked independent country entirely surrounded by South Africa. The province is not only rich agriculturally, but in mineral deposits as well. However, many would agree that the Free State’s true wealth lies in its natural beauty and its hospitable people.

Bloemfontein, translated literally as "flower fountain" and referred to as the "City of Roses", is the capital of the Free State as well as being the judicial capital of South Africa. Located in the middle of the province, this vibrant city offers the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area. The Golden Gate Highlands National Park, situated in the northeastern region of the province, is the Free State’s main tourist attraction. Taking its name from the dramatic golden, orange and ochre hued sandstone cliffs that are a dominant feature, the Golden Gate Highlands National Park incorporates superb examples of San rock paintings and hiking trails to suit all abilities. Other attractions that highlight the natural beauty of the Free State are the Willem Pretorius Game Reserve, Gariep Dam nature reserve and the Soetdoring Nature Reserve.

With the Free State lying in the middle of the country, many travel through the province on their way to other destinations, but an increasing number of holiday makers are taking the time to explore this stunning region of South Africa – why don’t you?

User Comments & Reviews

Bloemwhat
2010-01-18 17:05:51

you can go look at http://www.bloemwhat.co.za we will up date the events calendar as soon as Friends of the Zoo send us dates of the Zoo Snoos.

Liesel
2010-01-05 05:41:59

I want to know when is the Zoo Snoos this year?

Andrea
2009-12-23 12:16:39

I am looking for facilities that offer the following activities between 29/12/09 and 03/01/10 : - River rafting - Mountain trails with mountain bike rental on location - Archery - Clay pigeon shooting - Quad biking

Andrea
2009-12-23 12:13:51

Hello, I'm looking for the same activities as the user above me, Arne Herz. I am also interested in knowing what mountain trail location offer mountain bike rental and clay pigeon shooting as well. Thank you!

ARNE HERZ
2009-12-07 13:44:12

im looking for places to : absail, quad bike, river rafting, archery, for the period 26/12/09 to 30/12/09

Pule Mofokeng
2009-11-24 10:34:29

I have to agree with you George, it's a pity that those in power are just ignorant about dealing with such issues but I trust that talking this issue with the Premier Mr Ace Magashule, he will but into the idea and persue the matter. Bloemfontein deserves better.

George Morai
2009-10-06 11:07:40

I BELIEVE IT WOULD BE FAIR FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO ERECT A STATUE (NOT AN INSULTING DRAWING OF A HORSE THAT IS ON THIS HILL PRESENTLY) OF KING SEISO GRIFFITH LEROTHODI WHO FUOGHT THE BATLE IN BLOEMFONTEIN AND IS RENOWN TO THE BLACKS OF THIS TOWN. IT WOULD BE PROPER TO STUDY THE HISTORY OF THIS HERO AND DECIDE ON A PROPER STATUE OF A MAN ON HORSE BACK LIKE THE ONE IN TOWN.

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