Free State and surrounding areas

The Free State lies in the heart of South Africa with the Vaal River flowing along the northern border and the Orange River flowing along the south. Crop fields and rolling grasslands dotted with beautifully decorated Sotho houses rise to sandstone mountains in the northeast.

Bloemfontein, which means ‘spring of flowers’ is the capital of the Free State. In spring, the city bursts into bloom of thousands of rose bushes that line the streets. Go for walks and see small game at Naval Hill, the nature reserve in the middle of the city, or visit the nearby orchid house or Women´s Monument, which commemorates the tens of thousands of women and children who died in the Anglo-Boer War.

Clarens, 'The Jewel of the Free State´ is a tiny village between the high sandstone Rooiberge and the Maluti Mountains where museums and quaint arts and crafts shops display the wares of the many local artists who live here. In spring, the nearby countryside of neighbouring Lesotho comes to life as the cherry orchards blossom and in winter the mountains are capped by blankets of snow. This is hiking country and horse riding trails abound.

The Golden Gate Highlands National Park nestles in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, with its incredible mountain outcrops, clear streams and wildlife. The park is named after the brilliant shades of gold cast by the sun on the sandstone cliffs. Some of South Africa´s most valued San rock art is found here.

The Vredefort Dome, the world´s greatest and oldest meteor crater, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The inner circle of the enormous impact crater created by a 10 kilometre wide meteorite, measures 180km and can be seen in the hills near Parys and Vredefort.