Free State Province – What to take in on a self drive tour!

• By: Editor
• On: 16/Oct/2008
• In: South Africa Travel Tips

The Free State Province stretches from the Vaal River in the north to the Orange River in the south. Its capital is Bloemfontain, nicknamed the ''City of Roses'' and it's also South Africa's judicial capital. The soil is good in the Province, making agriculture the most important industry in the region. 

First things first, before you head off on any self drive you'll need to plan your itinerary. Make sure you have a good map.

Our advice is to hire your car well in advance. You can book car hire Bloemfontein. You can also pick up your car rental at several other locations throughout the country. Check out our car hire South Africa and discover it for yourself.

It's important to know that the Free State is divided into regions or sub-provinces; Fezile Dabi in the north, Thabo Mofutsanyane in the east, Motheo located in the south east, Xhariep in the south, and Lejweleputswa located in the north west. The major towns of the Free State Province are listed below:

Bloemfontein…

As mentioned previously, Bloemfontein is the capital city of the Free State Province. It’s located right in the centre of South Africa and also in the centre the Free State. Bloemfontein is often referred to as the ‘The City of Roses’ in honour of its annual Rose festival and the abundance of colourful roses that you’ll see in the area. There's no shortage of top tourist attractions either!

Bloemfontein is also one of the host cities of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Find out more about Bloemfontein.

Bethlehem…

Bethlehem meaning ‘house of bread’ appropriately gets its name from the many wheat growing farms in the area. Bethlehem is found nestled in the beautiful mountain range of The Maloti Mountains and is just a 3 hour drive from Gauteng. The Maloti Mountains are the source of the Orange River and The Tugela River, which are South Africa’s main rivers. 

There's so much to see and do here; you can visit its many restaurants and shops, stroll through the beautiful streets and meet the friendly locals, visit the beautiful Wolhunters Nature Reserve located just 5km from the town.

Find out more about Bethlehem.

Sasolburg…

Sasolburg is situated at the northern tip of the Free State. It sits on the River Vaal which divides the Free State from the old province of Transvaal. The North West Province is on its North Bank, and The Free State Province is located to the South.

Sasolburg was founded during the 1950’s, its main purpose was for housing and for facilities for the people working for South African Coal, Oil and Gas, or SASOL as it is known. Sasolburg is a true gem in South Africa and has on several occasions won "The most beautiful large town in the Free State" award.

Find out more about Sasolburg.
 

Top attractions to visit…

Discover the beauty of Bloemfontein’s many historical buildings such as the wonderful Anglican Cathedral, First Raadsaal, Old Government Buildings, Rugby Museum and much more.

The Gariep Dam is South Africa’s largest Dam, here you can learn the many wonders of this high-power plant and take in the spectacular surroundings.

The Golden Gate National Park really is a must when in the Free State. It’s located in the shadows of the beautiful Maluti Mountains, and has much to offer. The Golden Gate appropriately got its name from the effect the sun has as it glistens on the sandstone cliffs. Here you’ll be treated to amazing views and you’re sure to see much of the colourful South African wildlife, from zebras to birds, and not forgetting the Springbok, which features as an emblem on the national Rugby team's jerseys.

Clarens also known as "The Jewel of the Free State" is a tranquil little village and a popular tourist destination. It’s also home to many artists who spend their days capturing the wonderful surroundings.

Whatever route you decide to take you are assured of a wonderful experience when you travel to South Africa, with so much to see and do, the many activities on offer, impressive scenery, variety of cultures, amazing wildlife, peace and tranquillity and much more. You’ll certainly cherish your holiday memories of South Africa forever.

If you have any comments, questions, or anything you'd like to add, just drop us a line. We'd be delighted to hear from you.