The Golden Gate Highlands National Park is truly the jewel of the eastern Free State and boasts a fascinating geological heritage, dating back millions of years to when the area was a swampy delta ruled by dinosaurs.
Erosion turned the landscape to desert, and then sculpted the dramatic amber cliffs before volcanic activity finally capped the landscape with soaring basalt peaks. The imposing Brandwag rock is at the heart of the park and keeps watch over the Golden Gate Hotel and chalets.
The 11 600 ha of unique environment make up a true highland habitat, providing a home to a variety of mammals and birds, including the rare bearded vulture (lammergeier) and the equally rare bald ibis, which breed on the ledges of the sandstone cliffs.
Glorious views come as part of the deal, if you tramp the trails to top out on the Brandwag Buttress or Ribokkop, this is the highest point ...
Although geared specifically towards tourism, the Basotho cultural village 20 kilometres east of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park wil...
If the place was so great that a national park was created just to protect the scenic landscape, you can be sure a hiking trail through Gold...