Northern & Eastern Free State
Another busy day.... © Northern & Eastern Free State
The Northern and Eastern regions of the Free State are bordered in the East by the majestic Drakensberg Mountains and the Lesotho border, and in the North by the Vaal River. In the far east of the region on the Lesotho border and nestled in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains is the 11600 hectare Golden Gate Highlands National Park. While some national parks are noted for their wildlife, the Golden Gate is one of those noted for its natural beauty, and takes its name from the brilliant shades of gold cast by the sun on the majestic sandstone cliffs of the park.
Just to the North of the Golden Gate is the small town of Bethlehem, whose biblical name means "house of bread", an appropriate name for the town that is at the heart of the country's wheat growing region. In fact the whole of the Northern and Eastern Freestate is a most important agricultural area, producing a great percentage of South Africa's maize and wheat.
The small town of Deneysville was proclaimed in 1939 and exists at as a result of the construction of the Vaal Dam, completed in 1938, now the hub of the Vaal Triangle. SA’s 3rd biggest Dam – 12 times larger than Harties. At 32000 hectares in size the Vaal Dam is Gauteng’s main source of fresh, pure water; the main catchment of the crystal waters which flow downstream from Lesotho. Deneysville, the biggest village at the Dam has great heritage from Khoi San caves submersed beneath the water, Voortrekker Graves perfect to explore during starlit, ghost cruises and some of the biggest yachting regattas in Africa. Lake Deneys, now mostly South Bay, one of dozens of waterfronts was home to the southernmost terminal for BOAC's flying boat service from Britain to South Africa during the second world war (SA’s original, international airport)! Deneysville is a main venue for water sports enthusiasts, home to four, major yacht clubs and the NSRI, boat chandlers and working harbours.
Right on the border between the Northern and Eastern Free State and Kwazulu-Natal is situated the charming little country town of Harrismith. Established in 1849 on the banks of the Wilge River, Harrismith gets its name from Sir Harry Smith who was a govenor of what is now known as the Free State. Harrismith is easily recognized when traveling through the region by the large flat topped mountain, the Platberg, which sits just behind the town. The town is the last before making the long climb up the Van Reenen's Pass where the N3 highway cuts through the Drakensberg. There are many reminders of the Anglo-Boer wars in the area.
In the extreme South of the Northern and Eastern region and situated on the Highlands scenic route that follows the Lesotho border lies the small town of Hobhouse. The town is on the banks of the Leeu River and is named after the Anglo-Boer War concentration camp heroine, Emily Hobhouse. This suffragette was so appalled at the conditions in the concentration camps that she started a nursing and welfare service amongst the Boer women. She was so dedicated to her new calling that she called off her wedding -her wedding veil can still be seen on display in Bloemfontein.
A little to the North of Hobhouse is the thriving little agricultural town of Ladybrand, founded in 1867. Ladybrand sits at the base of the Platberg ridge and is an important administrative town in the wheat and sunflower belt of the Freestate. There are many fine examples of sandstone architecture in the town, which lies just a few kilometers from the Caledon Bridge, the main border post between South Africa and Lesotho.
One of the most important towns of the Northern and Eastern Region of the Freestate is Kroonstad which, according to legend, has the distinction of being one of few towns anywhere to be named after a horse, Kroon, which belonged to the prominent Boer leader Sarel Cilliers. Kroonstad is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful towns of the Free State, and is an important centre for the production of maize, wheat, meat, sunflowers, dairy products and wool.
The Northern & Eastern Free State region of South Africa offers a variety of attractions and activities, ranging from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences.
Here are ten things to do or see in this diverse area:
1. Golden Gate Highlands National Park: Known for its stunning sandstone formations and diverse wildlife, this national park offers hiking, bird watching, and breathtaking scenery. The park is also home to the Basotho Cultural Village, where you can learn about the history and traditions of the Basotho people.
2. Clarens: This charming village, often referred to as the "Jewel of the Free State," is known for its art galleries, craft shops, and vibrant culinary scene. Outdoor activities like hiking, horse riding, and fly fishing are also popular in the surrounding Maluti Mountains.
3. Vredefort Dome: Explore the world's largest and oldest visible impact crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Vredefort Dome offers guided tours, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the geological significance of this ancient impact site.
4. Bethlehem: Visit this historical town to enjoy its museums, such as the Bethlehem Museum, which showcases the area's cultural heritage. The town also offers outdoor activities like fishing and boating on Loch Athlone Dam.
5. Sterkfontein Dam Nature Reserve: Located near Harrismith, this nature reserve is perfect for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities like fishing, sailing, and windsurfing. The surrounding area is ideal for hiking and bird watching.
6. Ficksburg: Known as the Cherry Capital of the World, Ficksburg hosts an annual Cherry Festival in November. Visitors can enjoy cherry picking, tasting local cherry products, and participating in festival activities.
7. Gariep Dam: The largest dam in South Africa, Gariep Dam offers a range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and camping. The Gariep Dam Nature Reserve is also great for wildlife viewing and bird watching.
8. The Sentinel Peak and Amphitheatre: Part of the Drakensberg Mountains, these natural landmarks offer some of the best hiking trails in the region. The hike to the top of the Sentinel Peak provides panoramic views of the Amphitheatre, a dramatic cliff face.
9. Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge: Stay at this lodge located in the Maloti-Drakensberg Park for stunning views and access to hiking trails. The lodge is a great base for exploring the nearby Royal Natal National Park and the Tugela Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the world.
10. Historic Sites in Harrismith: Visit Harrismith to explore its historic buildings, such as the Harrismith Town Hall and the blockhouse from the Anglo-Boer War. The town also offers outdoor activities in the surrounding Platberg Mountain.
These activities highlight the natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures available in the Northern & Eastern Free State region, making it a diverse and exciting destination for travelers.
Deelfontein
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Vredefort
Northern & Eastern Free State
Nestled between two high ridges in the heart of the Vredefort Dome World Heritage Site, Deelfontein self catering bush lodges offers activities ranging from hiking and mountain biking to birdwatching and stargazing. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Lakeview on Vaal @ Vaaldelta Waterfront
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Deneysville, Vaal Dam
Northern & Eastern Free State
Vaal Waterfront, penthouses, fully equipped, self-catering accommodation with private jacuzzis, at Deneysville, straddling the Gauteng-Free State border, 60 mins from Jhb, 90 minutes from Pretoria. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Waaidam Resort
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Harrismith
Northern & Eastern Free State
Waaidam Guest Farm is situated in the centre between Johannesburg, Durban and Blowmfontein, approximately 9km from the N3, close enough to the main road, yet far enough to get away from the noise of traffic. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Sandstone House and Stables
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Kroonstad
Northern & Eastern Free State
Sandstone House (sleeps 7) and Stables (sleeps 2) Guest Farm offers self catering accommodation in Kroonstad, Northern & Eastern Free State. Experience the tranquil farm atmosphere of the central Free State. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Duck Cottage
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Parys
Northern & Eastern Free State
Duck Cottage offers a selection of self catering accommodation on the banks of the Vaal River in Rietpoort, Parys, Free State. Looking for complete relaxation and tranquillity in an African setting you need look no further! …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Ronderus Guest Farm
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Memel
Northern & Eastern Free State
Ronderus Guest Farm provides the perfect self catering accommodation for the adventurer near Memel in the Northern and Eastern Free State. This self catering Guest Farm accommodation (Sleeps 11) is situated between Vrede and Memel. Accommodation consists …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Rose House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Fouriesburg
Northern & Eastern Free State
The Rose House offers visitors to the Fouriesburg area with self catering or bed and breakfast accommodation. Situated on a 580 hectare farm between Fouriesburg and Clarens on the S325. The main sandstone house was built in 1923 from local sandstone... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Akzente
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Clarens
Northern & Eastern Free State
Akzente is situated in the heart of Clarens, within walking distance of all the galleries, shops and restaurants, but still has a panoramic view of the valley and the mountains of Golden Gate and Lesotho... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
MacFarlanes Country Retreat
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Harrismith
Northern & Eastern Free State
MacFarlanes' picturesque setting on the bank of a large lake offers self catering accommodation for up to 12 guests. Warm hospitality and a beautiful countryside await our guests and their pets. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Madrid Farm Cottages
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Clarens
Northern & Eastern Free State
We have three self-catering cottages in the large garden on the farm "Madrid", which has been in the Mousley family for 144 years. The cottages are close enough to the homestead to be very safe but still out of sight of each other. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Ongeag Guesthouse
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Clarens
Northern & Eastern Free State
Ongeag is a spacious, fully-equipped, self catering double story sandstone house, surrounded by the mountains of Clarens. Wide balconies integrate the warmth of the house with splendid views of the surrounding scenery. The house is designed to... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Sediba Lodge
Guest Farm Accommodation in Clarens
Northern & Eastern Free State
Sediba Lodge offers self catering accommodation in Clarens, the "Jewel of the Free State". The Lodges are spacious, well appointed, fully serviced and offer home from home comfort. The view from all the windows is stunning.. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Barbet Country Cottages
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Clarens
Northern & Eastern Free State
The Barbet Country Cottages are situated on a large farm, 17km from Clarens along the magnificent Maluti route, a beautiful, scenic drive, including our very own 'God's Window', overlooking the vast Maluti Mountain ranges. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Farm Stay At Harry's Place
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Memel
Northern & Eastern Free State
Farm Stay At Harry's Place offers self catering accommodation (sleeps up to 10) on a guest farm in probably the best part of Memel in the Eastern Free State. Wake up to the peaceful sounds of the farm in a beautiful old fashioned, English sandstone... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Mont Plaisir
Guest Farm Accommodation in Fouriesburg
Northern & Eastern Free State
Mont Plaisir offers self catering accommodation near Fouriesburg, where you can discover and enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of the Eastern Free State Highlands. 4 self catering options are available. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Riverview Country Inn
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Swinburne
Northern & Eastern Free State
Situated in the village of Swinburne, just 1 km of the N3 highway. This is the ideal spot to overnight or spend a few days discovering the back roads of the Drakensberg Highlands. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Camelroc Guest Farm
Fresh-Water Fishing Accommodation in Fouriesburg
Northern & Eastern Free State
Camelroc sits between the two Caledon rivers, close to Caledonspoort border post. Its a good base from which to explore Eastern Free State as well as Lesotho. 6 chalets sleeps 8, 6, 2. Hikers Cabin sleeps 16 Main home has three rooms sleeps 6. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Golden Cove
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Clarens
Northern & Eastern Free State
Golden Cove is a lovely comfortable and cosy self catering house in the quaint Clarens village and sleeps up to 6 people. There are 3 bedrooms, with 2 queen beds and 3rd bedroom has 2 single beds. Main bedroom has an en-suite bathroom with bath and... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Wedge-Wood Cottage
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Clarens
Northern & Eastern Free State
Wedge-Wood Cottage is a charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom, cottage on the Clarens Golf and Leisure Estate and can accommodate 6 guests. The cottage is situated opposite a peach orchard with uninterrupted views of Mount Horeb. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Holey Trails Farm
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Fouriesburg
Northern & Eastern Free State
Discover your free state at the Holey Trails Farm, where tranquillity and adventure await. 6 Chalets (sleeps 18 in total). Whether you're biking on our scenic trails, immersing yourself in a good book or simply soaking in the serenity, you'll find... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
