Free State province sparkles as a tourist destination

BY Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe

Known for its agricultural abundance, the Free State is mostly used as a thoroughfare to other provinces and is not given enough credit it deserves for its vast tourism offering. There are many tourist gems this land-locked province has to offer for every budget size. This December, give it a chance and you will be pleasantly surprised and return for more.

Bloemfontein

The city of Bloem, as it is affectionately known, is the beautiful provincial capital that also houses a lot of gems. Not only is it a city of roses, but it is a perfect escape for those seeking nature and our rich history. This is where you find the iconic 6.5m tall bronze statue of Nelson Mandela. Nature lovers have a choice between the Franklin Game Reserve, the Botanical Gardens, the Orchid House and a Fragrance Garden for the Blind – or just set aside enough time to Xplore all of them.

If you are looking for museum for a bit of history, Bloem has them in abundance. From the Anglo-Boer War Museum, the Choet Visser Rugby Museum, the SA Armour Museum, the Fire Station Museum, the National Museum, the Queen’s Fort Military Museum and the National Women’s Memorial – they are all there to Xplore.

Clarens

The quant town of Clarens is a great escape for art and craft lovers as well as people who adore nature. Here, you can soak in the astonishing sights and bring out your inner Picasso, there is no shortage of inspiration. From the imposing Golden Gate Highlands National Park that greets you before you enter this picturesque town and the many galleries that line up the charming streets. You can snag beautiful pieces for next to nothing and immerse yourself in lots of activities ranging from hikes, white water rafting quad biking, and even get a greater view of the town by a hot air balloon. Legend has it that it also hosts the oldest dinosaur nesting site, so if you are into that kind of history – saddle up and get personal with Clarens.

Parys

The artist enclave that is Parys is just a short hour’s drive from Johannesburg. Here, you get lost in the architecture and the beauty of this tourist heaven. Although best known for its art and craft finds, it is also a Mecca for adventure enthusiasts. Located on the banks of the Vaal River, there is no shortage of water activities from river rafting and canoeing. Another hidden secret of Parys is the food. There are over 40 restaurants to choose from offering a wide variety of sumptuous cuisine, the town is fast becoming a food capital of the Free State. If anything, spend time Xploring the town’s tastes and sights.

Gariep Dam

In case you did not know, this is where the largest dam in South Africa is located, and it is quite impressive to see in person. While it houses the country’s first hydroelectric power station, it does not prevent tourists from also enjoying what the dam has to offer. There are boat cruises, fishing, and other water-related activities – you just have to pick what works best for you. Once there, also add the Gariep Dam Nature Reserve, Free State’s largest nature reserve, to your list of activities. A hike is a first start, but there is also a lot more to see and enjoy at your own pace.