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Thabo Mofutsanyana Region, Free
State:
With its beautiful snow capped mountains this untouched area with its breathtaking
scenery, possesses a grandeur of majestic proportions. Hiking trails meander through
densely vegetated valleys and wild gorges created by centuries of wind, water and fire,
while Bushman paintings evoke images of lost civilisations and ancient myths, truly an
area where the magic and mystery of the Free State can be experienced first hand ... |
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Golden Gate Highlands
Park:
Nestled in the rolling foothills of the Maluti Mountains of the north-eastern Free State
lies the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. The park derives its name from the brilliant
shades of gold cast by the sun on the park's sandstone cliffs, especially the imposing
Brandwag rock, keeping vigil over the main rest camp. This 11 600 hectares of unique
environment is true highland habitat, providing home to a variety of mammals; black
wildebeest, eland, blesbok, oribi, springbok and Burchell's zebra - and birds, including
the rare bearded vulture (lammergeier) and the equally rare bald ibis, which breed on the
ledges in the sandstone cliffs.
Ribbokkop, the highest point in the park, reveals a breathtaking tapestry of red, yellow
and purple hues as its warm shades merge with the cool mountain shadows towards evening.
Cool highveld summers with the possibility of thunderstorms in the afternoon and cold
winters with occasional snow transforming the park into a white wonderland. Activities
include Short nature trails varying from 1 hour to 5 hours (no bookings required), Game
viewing at leisure in own vehicles, Guided excursions, night drives, video shows and
lectures during school holiday periods. |
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Bethlehem:
This important farming and commercial centre lies on the Jordaan River in a rich
wheat-producing region, also notable for wool and cattle farming. The Maluti Mountains
provide a dramatic backdrop. The town was founded by the Voortrekkers during the 1840s and
is the setting for a number of historical sandstone buildings. Excellent facilities are
available, including good restaurants and a varied entertainment calendar. The banks of
the Jordaan River form part of the Pretoriuskloof Nature Reserve, a sanctuary for birds
and small game. Bethlehem is a convenient stopover for motorists travelling to Golden Gate
Park and the Drakensberg. |
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Clarens:
Between the high sandstone Rooiberge and the Maluti Mountains, the picturesque little town
of Clarens is aptly described as "The Jewel of the Free State". All year round,
but especially in autumn when the leaves turn to gold, the scenery, is a magnet for
artists and photographers. Several local artists have opened their studios to the public.
Art galleries, a lovely church and a museum are well worth a visit. More than 50 000 beer
bottles were used to build the tiny "Cinderella Castle" in Naupoort Street.
Bushman (San) paintings are found on farms in the vicinity. Nearby, the panoramic Highland
Route meanders along the foothills of the Maluti Mountains. |
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Clocolan:
The town has spectacular views of the Maluti Mountains. In spring, orchards of cherry
trees in blossom provide an arresting sight. Several fine Bushman rock paintings and
engravings are found in the area. Two dams offer excellent fishing. Annual Events: The Vintage Tractor Fair is held annually in Clocolan. |
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Ficksburg:
Lying in a rich agricultural area, Ficksburg is especially notable for the production of
grain, livestock, cherries and asparagus. The town has fine gardens, parks and magnificent
views of the Maluti Mountains. At Ficksburg High School, the S H Pellissier Art Gallery
features works by South African artists, including murals by Pierneef. Water sports and
angling are enjoyed on the Meulspruit Dam, which is surrounded by a nature reserve. The
dam is the starting and finishing point for the 23-km Imparani Hiking Trail. Ficksburg is
a gateway to the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho. One of the most exciting ways of crossing
the rugged Maluti Mountain range into Lesotho is on the back of a Basotho pony. The
traditional means of transport among the Sotho people, Basotho ponies are famed for their
sure-footedness in mountainous terrain. |
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Text courtesy of
SA-Venues.com |
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• Free State accommodation by Town:
• Bethlehem • Bloemfontein
• Clarens • Clocolan
• Deneysville • Ficksburg
• Fouriesburg
• Gariep Dam • Harrismith
• Kroonstad • Parys
• Philippolis • Smithfield
• Springfontein
• Van Reenen • Welkom
• Wesselsbron |
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