Spectacular Natural Beauty
Flanked between the magnificent Orange and Vaal Rivers lies the Free State, a province in South Africa blessed with spectacular natural beauty, warm hospitality and an atmosphere of the bygone era.
If you are looking to get away from it all yet remain within proximity of your creature comforts, then the Free State is worth a visit. With accommodation ranging from farmstays to safari lodges, guesthouses, backpackers and bed & breakfast establishments, you are situated at the heart of South Africa. Make a visit to Golden Gate Highlands National Park with its distinct rock face upon which shades of gold and ochre are cast by the sun on sandstone cliffs.
All Around Fun
The Free State borders the Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, North West, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, and also shares a border with Lesotho. The Orange River flows through the southern boundary of the Free State, and includes the Gariep and Vanderkloof Dams, two of the largest dams in the country.
Visit Clarens if you are after nature, art, restaurant-hopping, mountain biking, game driving, trout fishing, birding, late-night partying and all around fun. Holiday farms abound throughout the province, including at the Maluti Mountains.
Sweet Little Touches
Whether with or without the family, the Free State offers the traveller a variety of sporting pursuits. Ranging from the relatively mild experience of horse riding or quad biking to adrenalin-charged white river rafting and abseiling. Of historical significance is the fact that some of South Africa's most valued San rock art is found here, in particular at the towns of Bethlehem, Ficksburg, Ladybrand and Wepener.
At day’s end, be on the lookout for endearing personal touches such as that cherry blossom laid lovingly across your pillow by your host. Life’s special moments are, after all, comprised of sweet little touches matched with unrivalled hospitality and it is precisely this ethos that defines the mindset of your Free State hosts.