Things to do in the Free State Province for the World Cup White water river rafting on the Ash River (Clarens)

White water river rafting on the Ash River

The Ash river just outside Clarens in the Eastern Freestate is fed by the Trans Caledon Transfer Tunnel, which

pumps water from the Katze dam high up in the Maluti Mountains in Lesotho. The crystal clear water flows down

the Ash river all the way to the Vaal dam.

The day starts with a short drive out to the river, where we do a safety-brief and explain all the do's and don'ts for

the days rafting action. Then we get on the water, practice getting back into the raft, just in case someone does fall

out, and then within a few 100 metres from the start we hit the first rapid called "Breathiliser"!

After "Breathiliser" it's action all the way with grade 3 rapids like "Car-wash", "Alles-verloren" and "Alles-gevonden"

untill we get to?!? The Bridge! Here we get out and have a look at the high-light of the day - an awesome grade 4

rapid with the name: "Fish-pond rapid". After running "Fishpond" we'll gather on the rocks next to the rapid, have

some refreshments, and contemplate the wiseness of our actions! Then it's back onto the rafts for more

adventure. Next up is the weir. Quite something!

River Rafting at Carryblaire (Parys)

River Rafting at Carryblaire

We offer two types of rafting. The first is a nature raft from Carryblaire approximately 5 km down river and is a

must for nature lovers. The trip takes approximately 1 Hour and includes drinks and transport and requires a

minimum of 4 people.

The second is a White Water Raft and is done on a separate section of the Vaal River. This trip takes

approximately 4 Hours and includes drinks and transport. Requires a minimum of 6 people. River Rafting is

seasonal and rapid grades depend on water flow. All rafting is conducted by qualified guides.

White Water Rafting (Parys)

White Water Rafting on the Vaal

Bring your family, friends or colleagues, come and explore Parys and Upper Vaal white water rafting and

experience a river trip you will never forget.

Start in Parys town and raft down to the take out point at Rocky. This is in the Dome berg land conservation area

part of the Vaal River and the most commercialised stretch of white water in South Africa. It is in a world heritage

site and the oldest and largest meteorite impact site in the world. The biggest rapid is called big daddy on this one.

Other fun rapids such as whiplash where you can surf with your two man inflatable raft (croc), and then carry your

raft up and run the rapid again.

Only one hour's drive from the centre of Johannesburg, these trip on the Vaal range from one day outings to a

weekend with one night or either two nights accommodation, various facilities available and various river stretches

available.

Wild Rides Quad Biking (Clarens)

Try quad biking in Clarens, Free State

Wild Rides Quad Biking offer quad biking experiences in the Maluti mountains, only 10 km from Clarens.

Quad Biking trips range in length from one-and-a-half to two hours depending on the participants' skills level.

Choose between a technical ride, a game-viewing outride or just a leisurely sundowner trip.

We cater for novice to experienced quad bikers.

Thank you for using our services and please feel very welcome to provide any useful feedback that may enhance our service to you. We look forward to receiving further requests from you in the future and as always, we assure you of our best attention at all times.

Skydiving in Bloemfontein

Tandem Skydive at Bloemfontein Skydiving Centre

Only ten minutes outside Bloemfontein, we offer skydiving to all experience levels. From tandem skydives, static

line course, accelerated freefall courses and progressive freefall training.

Bloemfontein skydiving club is one of the oldest skydiving clubs in the country, and is situated at Tempe airport

just West of Bloemfontein. We are a sport club that is affiliated at the Mangaung municipality, that is also

registered with PASA.

We operate on Saturdays and public holidays, but jumps during the week can also be arranged. We also offer

static line training, tandems and showjumps. This is a sport that everyone must try at least once - It will change

your life forever!

Abseil with Earth Adventures (Parys)

Abseil with Earth Adventures at Vredefort Dome

Earth Adventures offers safe and exciting abseiling at a number of venues around the Vredefort Dome.

Abseiling is an exhilarating adventure activity where the accomplishment of facing and eventually overcoming your

fears leads to a natural adrenalin rush beyond words. It was only towards the end of the last century that abseiling,

also called rappelling, became an activity in its own right. Abseiling is the method mountaineers use to rappel

down vertical rock faces or where special forces descent from hovering helicopters beyond enemy territory.

Franshoek Polo School (Ficksburg)

Franshoek Polo School

As one of the more established polo clubs in South Africa, Franshoek offers a unique polo experience. Practice

chukkas are usually played three times a week and, for the spectators, sipping ice cold champagne whilst

watching the game, is nearly as exciting as being on the polo field itself. Please enquire about prices for polo

packages or individual lessons.

The Franshoek Polo School is situated 26km from the town of Ficksburg, which was the heart of Free State polo

for many years. Three Springbok players played for the Ficksburg side in the 1960's, Bill Peacock, Julius Schuld,

and Fritz von Maltz . Over the years however, polo interest waned a bit and eventually in 1994, the Ficksburg Club

polo field land was reclaimed by the municipality for other use. The Franshoek Polo School was then formed, with

the objective of reviving interest in polo in the area. A new ground was planted on the farm. This now boarded field

is set at the head of a beautiful valley, tree-lined with a sandstone mountain backdrop. The 100year old oak trees

shading the pony lines give a majestic air to the venue.

For 10 years now, the Franshoek Polo School has hosted many clinics and introduced the game to many new

players. An increasing number of overseas players are discovering this as an ideal and affordable place to escape

the European winter and receive pre-season tuition - as polo is played all year around.

Get active with Action Sports (Bloemfontein)

Get active with Action Sports in Bloemfontein

Action Sport has 100 indoor floodlit all-weather sports arenas in South Africa for action cricket, action netball and action soccer. Show off or build up your speed, fitness and ball co-ordination skills. Strategy and team work are active in short spontaneous aerobic sessions. Recreational, social competitive and international games are played for all ages, genders and levels. The games lend themselves to corporate events, team building, individual fun and kids parties. Dress in sports kit and bring your own orange wedges for half time. ACTION CRICKET 'Only 2 runs needed to tilt the scoreboard. Bowler bowls; batter bats.. and the ball flies... nice catch! And you're out... oh no hang on its action cricket..you're still in the game just 3 runs down'. Team: 8 Players Time: 70 Min/32

Overs Description: Played on a cricket pitch but not with cricket rules. The balls are harder than tennis balls and softer than regular cricket balls. The game is fast paced and fun filled on an indoor field. All equipment is provided.

ACTION NETBALL

'The crowd goes silent as intense concentration balances the ball on raised fingertip... Swish, the ball is launched;

swoosh the hoop accepts and a goal is claimed!' Team: 5-10 Players Time: 30 Min Description: Girls and mixed

teams take to a rectangular 30m x 10m indoor netball court. Ceiling nets keep the ball on the court and the heart

rates up. A, B, C and social level games.

ACTION SOCCER

'What a steal; he dribbles left; he fakes right; he forges ahead; he sees a gap; he kicks...it is good enough? OH he

scores!!!' Team: 4 Players Time: 30 Min Description: Action soccer keeps the ball in play with a fully enclosed

netted field. Rules are based on outdoor soccer so bend it like Beckham.

Hiking in the Zoutspruit Game Camp (Kroonstad)

Hiking in the Zoutspruit Game Camp

The Zoutspruit game camp may be viewed either by vehicle or by hiking through the camp. Viewing the game

camp by vehicle will only introduce visitors to the most prominent species. Hiking though offers a unique eco-

tourism experience.

Birds, plants, insects, reptiles and small mammals can be observed at close range when hiking. All the senses

experience the atmosphere of the veld and for many urban dwellers it is a unique experience to be the only human

beings for as far as they can see. The Zoutspruit game camp offers a fascinating glimpse of what this area must

have looked like only a two centuries ago.

Horse Riding at Mont Plaisir (Fouriesburg)

Ride through the spectacular Eastern Free State

Enjoy the adventure of horse riding and discover the beauty of the Eastern Free State on horseback at Mont

Plaisir Guest Farm. We offer a variety of possibilities for both the experienced rider and the beginner.

Beginners Instruction - For beginners we offer special instruction packages. The minimum package is 2 days of 2

hours. At the end of these 4 hours you will be able to make your first ride.

Day rides - Hourly beginner’s rides and children's lead rides, intermediate and experienced rides. All day leisure

rides including lunch.

Cross country ride - (only for intermediate - and experienced riders with a minimum of 4 riders). This ride will take

you through the spectacular Eastern Free State countryside to a beautiful farm where we spend the night. On the

2 days ride we will return the next day to Mont Plaisir. On the 3 days ride we will go the next day on a ride to the

Lesotho border area. Spent the night at the farm again. The next day we will return to Mont Plaisir.

Horse Riding at Pumula Farm (Fouriesburg)

Categories: Horse Riding

Price group: On Request (see other things to do in this price group)

Available in the following region(s): Thabo Mofutsanyana

Address: Pumula Farm, on the S 344, Fouriesburg, 9725, Free State

Telephone: +27 (0)83 296-5706 or +27 (0)83 296-5706

Opening hours: By arrangement only. Please enquire.

Non-riders in the group on a tractor ride!

Enjoy the adventure of riding on horseback in the Free State at Pumula Guest Farm. Trips range from a relaxed

scenic ride for approximately one hour around the farm with stunning views to a full on cattle herding ride in the

early morning and late afternoon. Or go for cross country outings and out-rides where over-night camping can be

arranged.

Ponies and lead rides are provided for the kids and for those non-riders in the group we arrange a tractor ride

behind the horses. We can even arrange for a picnic on top of the mountain on the scenic ride.

The Cheetah Experience (Bloemfontein)

The Cheetah Experience in Bloemfontein

It is a once in a lifetime experience to be able to actually touch and stroke a wild animal - especially a cheetah!

Add the wonderful sound of it purring to this and you will remember it forever. We have various animals staying

with us from time to time. So, in addition to our cheetahs, you may also be able to touch a lion cub, tiger cub,

jaguar cub, leopard cub, wolf and a number of others. Keeping in mind that you always have to respect the

animals, as they are still wild animals by nature, you can come and enjoy this awesome experience with us.

About The Cheetah Experience: Riana van Nieuwenhuizen has been involved with Friends of the Zoo since 1996,

and bought her first cheetah, Fiela, in 2006, after realizing the problems cheetahs face and that they're heading

towards extinction. Riana then conceptualized promoting her tame cheetah to increase awareness and for

education.

In November 2007 she launched the project with a hectare of land provided by Emoya Estate located in

Bloemfontein, South Africa. Visitors on game drives at Emoya have the opportunity to meet Fiela and learn more

about this endangered species. The Fiela Funds Cheetah Breeding Project is a South African registered Non

Profit organization, primarily concerned with education. The purpose of the Fiela Funds is to ensure the long-term

survival of the cheetah and their ecosystem.

278 on Main (Clarens)

278 on Main in Clarens

Since opening in December 2007, the restaurant has built a reputation for serving one of the best breakfasts in

Clarens. On the menu throughout the day are a variety of salads comprising fresh farm produce wherever possible

and mouth-watering sweet and savoury pancakes. You'll find many international favourites like toasted cheese &

tomato as well as scrumptious treats served on ciabattas or toasted paninis.

When the weather is chilly, a bowl of Sue's home-made soup or one of her speciality pasta dishes is always a

good option. And if you're not in a hurry, the Beef and Guiness or Chicken and Mushroom pies are well worth

waiting for. Or if you're simply in the mood for a sweet treat you can't go wrong with the chocolate brownies,

scones and cream or freshly baked muffins.

Dinner is always a culinary delight - try the vegetable spring rolls, duck liver pate with toasted ciabatta or the

baked camembert with melba toast. Main course specialities include, lamb shank, melt-in-the mouth lamb curry,

oxtail and stir fries. End your meal with one of Sue's outrageously decadent desserts.

Anglo Boer War Museum and Battlefields (Bloemfontein)

Bloemfontein City Hall

There is no need to drive to KwaZulu Natal if you are in Bloemfontein and are interested in the Anglo Boer war.

There are plenty of battlefield sites around the Bloemfontein area and good place to start is the Anglo-Boer War

Museum on Monument Road. It is believed that this museum is the only one in the world dedicated to the Anglo

Boer War and along with displays of the war that continued from 1899 to 1902, there is also a Women’s Memorial.

The museum staff are very knowledgeable and will give directions to battlefield sites.

Art and Wine Gallery on Main (Clarens)

Art and Wine Gallery on Main in Clarens

Anton Grobbelaar opened one of the countries most exciting Art Galleries, the "Art & Wine Gallery on Main" in

Clarens. The first and only Art and Wine Gallery in South Africa brings a piece of the Cape within a mere 2 hours

drive from Johannesburg and offers Art and Wine lovers the best opportunity in the Free State to experience the

widest range of top quality wine and unique artwork by established artists at the best prices.

The Gallery covering 439 square meters with beautiful mountain views was specifically designed in the Main street

of Clarens to house an exquisite collection of art by well-known artists including Gregoire Boonzaier, Pieter van

der Westhuizen, Erik Laubscher, Jan Vermeiren, Marjorie Wallace, Eben van der Merwe, Conrad Theys, Hennie

Niemann, Hannetjie de Clercq, ceramics by Laura Du Toit, sculpture by Fana Malherbe and Jean Doyle, glass by

David Reade and Shirley Cloete and numerous others and to stock some of the best wines that the Cape has to

offer.

Art Workshops (Ficksburg)

Art Workshop at Malutizicht Lodge

Take part in 4 days of creativity and fun in one of South Africa's most scenic locations. The venue is Malutizicht

Lodge located between Fouriesburg and Ficksburg in the beautiful Eastern Free State.

The art workshop is suitable for artists wanting to improve on and expand their artistic skills; or anyone interested

in a ‘refresher’ course, in fact, anyone who loves painting and drawing.

The workshops include demonstrations, tuition, individual attention (classes limited); painting / drawing outdoors -

the beautiful scenery of the Eastern Free State - all under the expert tuition of an experienced art teacher;

discussions on the day’s art work.

Farm attractions / other activities (especially for the non-painting partner): walking, birding, fishing, visits to nearby

interesting towns like Clocolan, Clarens etc. Golf and bowls are available in nearby Ficksburg.

Basotho Cultural Village (Clarens)

Visit the Basotho Cultural Village in Qwa Qwa

A visit to the Basotho Cultural Village which nestles at the foot of huge sandstone mountains, will give you a

deeper insight into the lifestyle of the South Sotho from the 16th century to the present.

On arrival, a friendly receptionist will show you an introductory video which illustrates the building process of the

museum. Demonstrations of the decorations of huts, making of basketware, crushing of maize and traditional

dances are shown.

The Village regularly hosts art exhibitions as well as live stage performances at the sandstone amphitheater. The

curio shop offers traditional clay pots, basketware and other handmade items. Guided tours of the museum are

conducted from 9:00 to 16:30 (weekends until 17:00) seven days a week

Berry Picking at Bon-Af Berry Farm (Parys)

Go Berry Picking at Bon-Af Berry Farm

For a day out with a difference, why not go berry picking at Bon-Af Berry Farm and experience picking berries

straight from the bush. If you gather enough you can make your own jam when you get home! Also available are

farm tours. Bon-Af have 65 cultivars of berries including frambois, bramble, blueberries and blackberries.

After all your hard work you can enjoy a relaxing tea in the garden - scones and tea will be a perfect reward after

all your manual labour. Harvest time is from November to April and you can also purchase frozen berries out of

season.

Directions to Bon-Af Berry Farm

About 95 km from Johannesburg, right beside the N1 freeway, just before the Kroonvaal Toll Gate, turn off at the

Parys/Sasolburg road. Turn right over the freeway to Parys. 800 Meters further is the Barrage intersection. Turn

right at the Barrage sign. 400 meters further is the entrance to the Berry Farm.

Bird Watching at Carryblaire (Parys)

Paradise Flycatchers frolic in the glades at Carryblaire

Carryblaire River Retreat is a registered bird sanctuary, and boasts approximately 450 species of birds in the area.

Impressively, 100 of these have been personally identified by our father from the glorious verandah that overlooks

the gardens and river.

Goliath herons, paradise fly catchers, spotted eagle owls, cardinal woodpeckers, black breasted prinias and fish

eagles are amongst the more esteemed visitors, while white eyes, sunbirds, black collared barbets, bishop birds

and crested barbets frolic in the glades on a daily basis.

Bottoms up in Bloem! (Bloemfontein)

Enjoy cocktails at Boudoir Cafe

If you are in Bloemfontein, make sure you give Boudoir a try. This latest addition to the Bloem bar scene, Boudoirs

cocktails are opulently garnished and complimentary snacks are served between 4pm and 6pm.

Boudoir Cafe also have a great menu with meals ranging from lasagne, fillet pots and summer salads! The velvet

cushions invite you to make yourself comfortable while you wait for friends and ease into the weekend.

Clarens Brewery (Clarens)

Clarens Brewery in Clarens

If you love to try local brews when you travel, a stop-over at Clarens Brewery is a must! We offer free tastings, and

once you settle on your favourite, you can relax with a draught and enjoy one of the best views over the

spectacular Maluti Mountains.

Clarens Brewery brews fine hand crafted beers and cider in the beautiful village of Clarens in the foothills of the

Maluti Mountains.

The Clarens Brewery is the first and only microbrewery in the Free State and has been since December 2006.

Brewer, Stephan Meyer, has a passion for microbrewed beer and has been been brewing full grain, pure malt

beers since 2004 with an absolute dedication to quality and craftmanship. This is a must-do when visiting Clarens!

Deneys Croc Ranch (Deneysville)

Nile Crocodile at Deneys Croc Ranch

The unique experience of seeing the oldest survivors of the pre-Jurassic period in the world is just a couple of

minutes away. Crocodiles have survived for 200 million years and are still going strong! Even before there were

dinosaurs there were crocodiles.

At Deneys Croc Ranch we aim to educate and inform our visitors on all the aspect of Crocodylus Niloticus (Nile

Crocodile) as well as a host of other facilities at the disposal of our valued guests. Deneys Croc Ranch is situated

close to the Vaal Dam and a short hop away from the town of Deneysville with it's excellent birding, lodging and

sailing facilities.

Dine at Clementines (Clarens)

Dine at Clementines Restaurant & Bar in Clarens

Slightly off the beaten track, the little red and green corrugated iron building that is Clementines Restaurant & Bar

is something of a landmark in Clarens. Located opposite the Post Office in Chiurch Street, the menu at

Clementines is kept fairly simple.

Starters include Blue Cheese and Walnut Salad, Lentil & Coriander Soup or Aocado Ritz. For the main course try

the slow-cooked Chicken Pot Pie, Pan-Fried Trout or Lamb Breedie. Watch out for the weekend specials, like the

fresh rainbow trout with almond butter. The pub has a small but well-selected winelist. A cider, ale or stout from

the Clarens Micro Brewery is worth the stop alone.

Tip:

The Lemon Meringue Ice-cream Cake is to die for!

This is laid-back country! If you are in a hurry the slower pace here will probably not suit you.

Dine at Jenka (Bethlehem)

Dine at Jenka at Lavender Hill Country Estate

The moment you step through the doors not only does one get a Hearty Warm welcome but you are also drawn

into a world where the Aroma of freshly ground Coffee beans and baked pastries Tease and Tempt you.

Early evening the setting changes when you are shown to your table in our Fine Dining Restaurant where the

Spirit of Morocco has influenced every little detail. The menu at Jenka is classic fine dining but the Executive chef

has interpreted every dish with Contemporary Flair and our Wine list has a glass for every Palate. At Jenka, we

also cater for birthday parties, anniversaries, engagement parties, small intimate weddings, year end functions,

corporate functions and even romantic dinners in our beautiful landscaped garden. With our executive chef,

excellent trained staff and divine cuisine, this experience is not to be missed.

Dine at the De Stijl Gariep Hotel (Gariep Dam)

Dine at the De Stijl Gariep Hotel

Here at De Stijl we are proudly Karoo. We use Karoo produce where possible - organic, fresh and local is what we

believe in. This belief is what makes our food unique and as tasty and as special as it is. Our chefs are passionate

about the area and are always on the look out for new ideas and ingredients, so relax, join us on a journey through

the Karoo and the best it has to offer.

Day visitors, if you wish to enjoy a meal with us, please book in advance so that you are not disappointed.

Dine Indian Style at The Raj (Bloemfontein)

Dine Indian Style at The Raj in Bloemfontein

In the mood for Indian food in Bloemfontein, try The Raj at The Windmill Casino. Here you can enjoy North Indian

cuisine at its best. The décor in this casual upmarket restaurant is elegant and warm with touches of gold and

orange that is just as authentic Indian as the “imported” Indian chefs. Soft candle and Indian background music

completes the luxurious ambience.

The food is spicy, exotic and a visual feast, all prepared by master Indian chefs from India. For starters a must is

the home made lamb samoosas served with tamarind chutney. The perfect main course comes out of the tandoor

in the form of Chicken Tikka Masala where chicken pieces are grilled in the tandoor then simmered in an aromatic

and tomato gravy flavoured with fenugreek seeds and cardamom. Round this off with the Gulab Jamun, dumplings

served in rose and cardamom flavoured syrup. And don’t worry if you have a gentle palette, there are some non-

spicy dishes to enjoy.

Essensual Art Gallery (Clarens)

Essensual Art Gallery in Clarens

Essensual Art Gallery in Clarens is not your typical art gallery - be prepared to step into a sensual world of art

where the human form is celebrated in various artworks, styles and subjects.

You will not necessarily find famous artist's work in the gallery, but rather affordable beautiful works of art. Expect

to find regular exhibtions of artists from all over South Africa. Stop by the gallery when you visit the beautiful

village of Clarens and discover why this is the "Mecca" of art in the Eastern Free State.

Fauresmith's Street Train (Fauresmith)

Fauresmith's Street Train

What would the town of Tula Homa, Tennessee, USA and Wycheproof, Victoria, Australia have in common with

Fauresmith, Free State, South Africa? A phenomenon. These three towns are the only places in the world's history

that have ever had the phenomenon of a railway line running along their main street and the only places in the

world today that still pay a tribute to this bygone rail exception.

This 'dorpie' (diminutive term for local town) is the second oldest town in the Free State province yet still has a

village ambience. Named after Rev Phillip Faure and Sir Harry Smith its little known existence, 130km South West

of Bloemfontein, is largely due to the historic absence of two House of Assembly votes that saw Bloemfontein

become the capital of the region over this town that has a train running through it.

The only road on the African continent that had a steam train toot tooting in between olden day hooves that

eventually became modern day honking. The steep main street climb had the locomotive travelling at a pace slow

enough to walk besides and consequently only had one victim of causality, a rooster. The linear locomotive track

clanked with railway activity until 1999 where a pristinely maintained steam locomotive (built in 1903 by North

British Locomotive Company) was mounted dead in its tracks as a monument to this nostalgic transportation. The

need for working steam trains had diminished and the line between Springfontein and Koffiefontein was closed

down. Much negotiation by the old Town Council and the South African Railways resulted in the donation of this

original steam train to the town of Fauresmith where it now stands welded to its original tracks in tribute to its train

transit contribution.

The desire of the local Werda school rugby team to take the locomotive on its final trip if they won the district

tournament was honoured when the team's achievement was secured with the blowing of the game's final whistle.

Mr. Moos Visser's truck towed the train off its tracks taking a victory lap along the main street for one last time.

The polished black beauty with a yellow front bar now (SAR Class 8BW No. 1153 wheel type 4-8-0 ) rests her

steam pipe under the mains streets lamp poles which contrast the parallel railway tracks aground by mirroring

parallel electric wires aloft. Follow the train tracks through the main tree lined street of the town balancing

fearlessly on the rails one foot in front of the other safe in the knowledge that there is no risk of an oncoming train.

Although putting an ear to the tracks will no longer pick up a train echo one can imagine the steam rising from the

locomotive now stationed permanently in the town square.

Fishing at Amohela Ho Spitskop (Clocolan)

Fishing at Amohelo Ho Spitskop

A 2 ha dam is well stocked with rainbow trout, and adjacent deep water quarry is stocked with rainbow trout, black

bass and carp. A further 5ha dam is stocked with rainbow trout, black bass, and that latest of fly fishing fun,

sharptooth catfish.

Catch and release is encouraged, only fly fishing methods and equipment are permitted and each cottage has a

bag limit charged per kilogram for take-home catch.

The Retreat also offers walks, hikes, mountain and cycle trails, birding, small game, self drive day trips, seclusion

and privacy. Instead of television and radio we have incredibly beautiful night skies and endless silence!

Fly fishing at Carryblaire (Parys)

Fly fishing at Carryblaire River Retreat

With its own natural island and being a registered bird sanctuary the views offered at Carryblaire are breathtaking

and some of the most beautiful. The Yellowfish that leap through the water are considered to rival Trout in their

ability to entice fishermen in a challenge of wits.

The waters in front of Carryblaire River Retreat offer some of the most challenging fishing as experienced by many

who have visited Carryblaire in the past. Yellowfish abound and test fly fishing skills as they prove to be true

adversaries.

Should luck not be on your side on the day, the views from all sides will be sure to enthral and mesmerise. Our

usual accommodation is available to all visiting fisherman. Fish by day be spolit by night.

Fly Fishing Clinics can be arranged at Carryblaire with an experienced instructor. Please contact Dave at

Carryblaire for further information. Clinic requires a min of 3 people.

Fourth Raadsaal (Bloemfontein)

Fourth Raadsaal Building dating back to 1893

Opposite the Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein is the Fourth Raadsaal, one of the city's finest buildings. The

foundation stone was laid by President F. W. Reitz in 1890 and the building was completed in 1893. The Fourth

Raadsaal is a Renaissance-style building in red brick with a prominent dome and a portico of Ionic columns.

The last session of the Parliament of the old Boer republic of the Orange Free State was held here before the

occupation of Bloemfontein by British forces in March 1900. Today, the building is home to the Free State

Provincial Legislature.

Free State Botanical Garden (Bloemfontein)

Free State Botanical Garden

The Free State National Botanical Garden is home to some 400 species of plants, mainly from the Free State,

Northern Cape and Lesotho. A meandering paved path, perfect for the more elderly visitor and the physically

disabled, takes one through the gardens, whilst the more agile can venture up the koppies.

The Free State Botanical Garden offers some magnificent examples of wild olive and karee trees, an orange

blossom arbour and a petrified tree, thought to be over 150 million years’ old. For additional information please

see Free State Botanical Garden. The garden’s nursery is also well worth a vist as they have a well-stocked

supply of surplus indigenous trees, succulents, shrubs and bulbs and the Botanical Society arranges talks, sunset

concerts during summer and moonlight walks.

Indigenous plants are on sale from Monday to Saturday and special plant sales are held annually, usually in

September or October.

Freshford House Museum (Bloemfontein)

Visit Freshford House Museum in Kellner Street

Freshford House Museum is one of the few houses of the upper middle class of the Edwardian Period that still

exists in Bloemfontein. The house was designed and built by the architect John Edwin Harrison for himself and his

wife, Kate Caroline. Born and trained in England, Harrison immigrated to South Africa in 1894 and a few years

later entered into a partnership with the architect W.H. Stucke.

Freshford House was completed in 1897, i.e. during a transition between the Late Victorian and Edwardian

periods. The house, with its asymmetrical facade, unplastered red brick walls, bay windows, veranda with carved

wood and corrugated iron roof with cast-iron finishes, is a typical example of a residence during this period in

Bloemfontein.

The house was acquired by the National Museum in 1982 and restored to its original form. The Freshford House

Museum was opened to the public in 1986. A Late Victorian Period garden was laid out on the site to complement

the house.

Ionia Cherry Tour (Ficksburg)

Ionia Cherry Tour in Ficksburg

The cherry farm is made up of five farms and there are more than 15000 cherry trees planted. Currently we have

13 varieties of red cherries and 4 varieties of yellow cherries. Take a tour of the Ionia Cherry Farm and experience

the beauty and magnificence of the Eastern Free State, where you will have the opportunity to take photos, pick

cherries and take a walk through the orchard.

You can also experience cherry liqueur tasting. Don't miss the opportunity to see and taste why they call cherries

"fruit of the gods". This historic farm, set amongst the rugged sandstone cliffs of the Eastern Free State Highlands,

is blessed with precise combination of soil and climate, and is set at the precise altitude - landmarked by a solitary

rock-needle etched against the skyline known as the Pulpit - required to produce the perfect cherry!

Jagersfontein Big Hole Open Mine (Jagersfontein)

Polish up on diamond history at Jagersfontein Mining Museum - The little town of Jagersfontein is an hour's drive

outside of Bloemfontein yet stretches back centuries in time as the world's oldest diamond mining town. Contrary

to its simple modern day existence, Jonkersfontein was once the most glamourous town in the Free State thanks

to the discovery of its natural diamond assets by the 18th century pioneers.

As the first town in the Free State to have piped water and electricity it subsequently had a social life for high-

flyers of the day boasting Sir Herbert Baker buildings, its own newspaper, bank, town hall and theatre. The farm

that this mining town was established on in 1870 was once the property of Grigua Jacobus Jagers, hence the

name Jagersfontein (Jager's Fountain); colloquially referred to as 'Jaggers'. None other than Al Capone and

Elizabeth Taylor are amongst the world's celebrities who have proudly adorned themselves with so-called 'Jagger'

diamonds world renown for their size, clarity, quality and colour.

The term 'Jagers' has subsequently been coined to denote the pale blue tint distinctive of diamonds mined in

Jaggersfontein. In South Africa the diamond mining industry was born before the gold mining era and thus

Jagersfontein is thought of as the 'birthplace of the South Africa mining industry'.

The Jagersfontein Open Mine (Big Hole) boasts the biggest man-made hole on earth which was dug by the hands

of enthusiastic diamond diggers aided only by simple pick and shovel. Olden day transport and original mining

instruments archived in displays at this mining village's museum details the history of this local mine that produced

eight of the worlds biggest two dozen diamonds.

1893 Saw the discovery of the Excelsior Diamond measuring 972 carats and second only in size to the Cullinan

Diamond. Formed from the purest water this gem now described as a blue white diamond is estimated to be worth

R1.2 Billion Rand today. In 1895 an additional history making diamond of 637 carats was excavated on site and

was originally named after Francis William Reitz, the state president of the Orange Free State at the time, namely

the Reitz Diamond. However the following year marked the 60th anniversary of Queen Victoria's coronation (her

diamond jubilee) and this prized gem was renamed for the occasion becoming the Jubilee Diamond in her honour.

The Excelsior and Jubilee Diamonds are two of the world's ten biggest diamonds in history.

The Jagersfontein Mining Museum pays homage to the first place in the world where diamonds were discovered in

Kimberlite; their mother stone or blue ground. The Jagersfontein mining area is known as a Kimberlite Pipe.

Geologists confirm that this abandoned open-pit mine is prime locality for finding mantle xenoliths originating 300 -

500km below the earth's surface.

Enjoy the great facts of the little place that individually produced the greatest volume of the world's biggest

diamonds. Discover the interesting trivia of South Africa mining that led the world in the appreciation of flawless

twinkling beauty. Take a stroll and see the mining site of history at the neighbouring Big Hole, the site is no longer

active as a mine but the outlook is more impressive than ever; after all this is the place that had the foresight to

notice a diamond in the rough.

Lethoteng Weavers (Clocolan)

Visit Lethoteng Weavers in Clocolan

Lethoteng Weavers in Clocolan was started as local women attempted to eke out a living by producing saleable

merchandise. Today, Lethoteng Weavers is a successful business that produces beautiful hand woven wall

hangings from typical African fibers including wool, mohair and cotton. Beautiful jerseys are also on sale and a

visit to the Lethoteng Weavers is both inspiring as well as a rewarding shopping experience. (Keep some space in

your luggage for taking home some of their beautiful jerseys!)

Living Life Station Café (Ladybrand)

Stop for a treat at Living Life Station Café

South African whimsy whistles at Ladybrand's old Railway siding where an authentic farm style restaurant-café

smiles inside a once forgotten South African Railway shed.

Simple, South African food prepared with fresh ingredients and love by locals, warms bellies with wholesome

cuisine. A tribute to organic South African living; local milled organic flour is kneaded each day into bread; the

salad ingredients are grown in the vegetable patch behind the railway shed; fruit, berries and eggs are delivered

from a local farmer daily; pumped water comes clear from a local farm spring and the wood fire oven burns with

community kindling.

Authentic it's rustic décor the interior charm styles antique South African collectables in a whitewashed shed

frame. A corrugated iron roof covers chalkboard menus that change daily and are inspired seasonally. Resident

and patron dogs rest themselves lazy under trees.

Living Life Station Cafe in Ladybrand

Children seat themselves at mini tables and chairs scattered around their sandpit. Marmalades and marshmallows

line jars with dreams. Take-away treats are tied with ribbons so that you remember the decadence long after the

Maluti Mountains fade from your view. The café shares land with Living Life Products where local workers create

handmade crafts for sale as heartfelt gifts. The workshop is open for tourists or guests to walk through to see how

the ladies are making our products which are selling throughout the world.

Lunch at The Cabin Farmstall & Deli (Clocolan)

Stop off at the Cabin Farmstall & Deli

Travelling through the beautiful province of the Free State? Make a note to stop at The Cabin farm stall which is

found 5kms from Clocolan.

The Cabin serves up a wide variety of delicious food, including a curry peach salad and boerejongens - perfect for

a road trip lunch! Freshen up with a watermelon and strawberry or orange, pineapple and carrot juice or have a

hearty breakfast Free State style before continuing on your journey.

Murderer's Graves (Fauresmith)

The small village of Fauresmith has a large number of interesting graves. Shocking tales of past truths will forever

by told on the tombstones of three murderers who were executed in public just one kilometre outside of this town

between 1868 and1870. The then Orange Free State province cordially invited the public to attend the executions

as if they were a social event.

The most popular execution was the second one that saw a so-called coloured man named Appels face an

immediate death penalty. This gathering drew crowds in large numbers as if they needed to witness justice first-

hand to feel satisfied. Appels killed a harmless transport-rider who was sleeping under his wagon. Appels was

swiftly executed the very same day that he committed the crime.

The first execution in an audience was the consequence of love. A Caucasian man named Richardt ended his

wife's life so that he could take a younger bride that he had developed intimate feelings for. The grand finale of

these open-air persecutions was that of a Black African man who terminate the days of Mrs. Rossouw while she

was doing her laundry.

Follow the street sign that swings from a pole reading ' 'Mooderdenaars Graafte' (Murderer's Graves) and visit the

grave sites that made life interesting and kept the town on guard an in gossip.

Friends Restaurant & Pub (Clarens)

Friends Restaurant & Pub in Clarens

Friends is a very popular gathering place for the locals which offers Glühwein and a big logfire for freezing winter

evenings that Clarens in famous for.

Friends is well known for authentic home cooked “Boerkos” prepared by the proprieters themselves, Andre and

Annetjie Coetzee. Join the locals at the bar for a pint as well as live karaoke.

Nell's Restaurant (Zastron)

Nell's Restaurant in Zastron

Nell's is a charming, fully licensed restaurant situated in the town of Zastron in the Free State. Good food, warm

hosptality and a menu that changes regularly all go towards making Nell's a restaurant that is popular with both

locals and visitors alike. Rumour has it that the ribs at Nell's are the best in the country, so meat-lovers, be sure to

order those!

For a relaxing evening with friends, good food and a nice chat with your hosts, visit Nell's for an experience that

will stay with you.

Oliewenhuis Art Museum (Bloemfontein)

Visit the Oliewenhuis Art Museum

Oliewenhuis Art Museum is still a relatively young museum even by South African standards. Being only 13 years

old, the Museum has shown a steady and interesting growth in its collection. The permanent collection, which is

frequently rearranged, is housed on the first floor and is devoted exclusively to works produced by South African

artists. It has a solid foundation of early South African artists, and includes works by Thomas Baines, Jan Ernst

Volschenk, Pieter Wenning, Jacob Hendrik Pierneef and Willem Coetzer. The Museum is still in the fortunate

position to be able to continually expand on its collection of contemporary South African artists.

Visit the Oliewenhuis Art Museum

A considerable number of works have been acquired through donations and bequests; outstanding among these

is a collection of works from the City Council of Bloemfontein. This collection, which was ceded to Oliewenhuis Art

Museum at its inception in 1989, together with art works from the National Museum’s permanent collection, formed

the nucleus for the future Art Museum worthy of the Provincial capital. A large collection of works donated by the

Haenngi Foundation (as a result of the demise of the Pelindaba Museum of African and Modern Art) has assisted

the Museum in building a core collection representing works of some of South Africa’s most celebrated artists.

Phatt Chef Restaurant (Clarens)

The Phatt Chef Restaurant in Clarens

The Phatt Chef Restaurant, situated right at the main entrance to Clarens, is the perfect spot to settle in and enjoy

superb cuisine, complimented by warm hospitality. Owner and Chef, Simon Kerr, personally engages his patrons

in his colourful and inimitable manner, to lend a special flavour to the evening.

Simon Kerr’s 30 years’ experience and love of great cooking shine through. This is primarily a steakhouse and all

the meats are aged for between 28 to 35 days. Try a rump, sirloin or fillet steak with splendid mustard mash and

choose from a list of sauces, like roast garlic and parmesan, avocado and Dijon, or gratinéed brie and red onion

marmalade. There are seafood and vegetarian alternatives on offer, together with a big dessert menu.

Ruby's Restaurant (Parys)

Dine at Ruby's Restaurant

Ruby’s ia a special place. A place unlike any other, where friends gather to break bread, laugh, listen to wonderful

music and enjoy great food.

Featured on Top Billing and Pasella as well as featuring in "Eat Out Magazine" and "Country Life" Magazine,

Ruby's is sure to exceed your culinary expectations. Live entertainment featuring well known artists and Theme

Nights are very popular.

Primi Piatti Bloemfontein (Bloemfontein)

Dine at Primi Piatti in Bloemfontein

In the heart of Rugby country, Primi Piatti Bloemfontein matches the electric sports atmosphere with energetic

passion. Big screens mean you can watch every move your team makes - that is, if you can take your eyes off

your food long enough! And if you’re not into sport, you’ll be able to find a perfect spot on the veranda from where

you can enjoy the views the Loch Logan Waterfront has to offer.

“Urban Energy” is what drives this unique dining experience. It fuels the passionate service you experience time

and again. It inspires everyone involved to do things better than they did yesterday. It’s the force behind the quest

to be the best.

The dynamic atmosphere at Primi works for businessmen talking money or ladies doing lunch. It’s a good place for

the family and even better for fun get-togethers. Primi’s caters for the seasoned traveller without forgetting the

more conservative customer. Or the limits of your pocket. Their generous servings are all made fresh to order -

espresso style - from fresh ingredients in their open kitchens and cooked to perfection to achieve the punchy

flavour for which they have become so famous.

Purple Onion Deli & Coffee Bar (Clarens)

Shop at the Purple Onion Deli in Clarens

Stop off for a coffee at the Purple Onion Deli - reputed to have the best view in Clarens from their patio with coffee

and atmosphere to match! The Purple Onion Deli in the Windmill Centre offers a wide selection of home-made and

organic products - perfect for those on a self-catering holiday or weekend getaway! Stock up on a variety of freshly

baked breads, cakes and muffins; grab a few jars of delicious chutneys, relishes, jams, olive products and other

fine produce. The large jars of mixed fruit and vegetable preserves are highly recommended

Smudge Contemporary Art Gallery (Clarens)

Smudge Contemporary Art Gallery in Clarens

If you are looking for something a little out of the ordinary then pay a visit to Smudge Contemporary Art Galley in

Clarens. “Conventional and conservative are not words I would use to describe my art gallery” says Elsje

Grobbelaar, owner and curator at Smudge Contemporary Art Gallery which is situated at 279 Main Street in

Clarens. Elsje says she has always enjoyed looking at unusual and modern artworks and this is what she looks in

the art she displays in her gallery.

Artists with lots of talent and energy including up-and-coming, emerging or established artists, these are the type

of artists whose works you can expect to see at Smudge. Elsje opened the first and only contemporary art galley

in Clarens, with the hope of bringing these artist as well as patrons and investors of contemporary art under the

same roof.

Spend the day in Maselspoort (Bloemfontein)

Spend the day in Maselspoort

Maselspoort is located a mere 23km from Bloemfontein, the capital of the Free State and has been an accessible

escape for the people of Bloemfontein since the 1930’s. A fisherman's paradise, Maselspoort offers a choice of

leisure facilities. A range of leisure activities are available with casino, golf course, bowls and squash nearby.

The Modder River makes for the perfect place to spend a day relaxing … either pack a delicious picnic lunch to

enjoy on the river banks, or try a slightly less lazy pursuit, and follow a hiking trail, horse ride or spend a few hours

game viewing. All are available.

Stargaze at Boyden Observatory (Bloemfontein)

Stargaze at Boyden Observatory

South Africa is famous for it's diamonds; diamonds which South African skies receive on a sunless night canopy

for safe-keeping.

As the African night deepens the heavens enrobe themselves in midnight velvet for an evening gown and adorn

themselves with a perfectly placed cross for jewellery. This Southern Cross hangs direction on the darkened

horizon and guides its gazer toward the embellished hemisphere's most southerly sanctuary. As African camp

fires are lit by flamed torches, the moon rises to light the silver bonfires that burn brilliance into African camp side

ceilings. This is the nightly ritual taken in by the naked eye on a South African sky and collected in constellations

by the telescopes of the Boyden Observatory.

The University of the Free State continued in Bloemfontein with the work commenced by Harvard University in

Peru in 1889. Stable atmospheric environments and perfect weather conditions resulted in the relocation of this

look-out laboratory to South Africa in 1927. Closed down in 1977, the cast of loyal galaxies stayed faithful until its

re-opening in 1989.

The support of the local Amateur Astronomy Association ultimately led to the formation of The Friends of Boyden

Society which makes magnified star gazing a high-tech experience for both the public and professionals.

Impressive telescopic lenses pierce the atmosphere of day and night skies.

Telescopes include the 60 inch Rockefeller reflector, the 16 inch Nishimura reflector, the 16 inch Watcher Robotic

reflector, the 13 inch Alvin Clark refractor, the 10 inch Metcalf refractor, the 20 cm Coelostat solar telescope and

the UFS Boyden refractor (1.5m) which is the third largest operational telescope in Africa.

Vantage points for taking in sunsets and planetary pathways include an auditorium roof and observation platform.

The auditorium, science centre and library (holding original historic books that date back centuries), enlighten

minds on the meaning of light years. Human and robotic spaceflight as well as planet discoveries are explored in

digital presentations while the skies present their dazzling live displays.

Boyden Observatory is the most accessible observatory of its nature and the star of a Bloemfontein visit.

Observatory visitors can take advantage of the very same equipment once utilised by famous astronomers who

now look down from the very heavens they once studied. Look up and look out.

The Best Cappuccino in Kroonstad (Kroonstad)

Squirrels for the best Cappuccino in Kroonstad

The largest variety of food is found here and only the freshest and finest ingredients are used for meals and fresh

bakes. Visit them at their new premises situated at 38 Reitz Street Kroonstad. Squirrels Restaurant, on the corner

of Cross and Kerk Streets is open all day.

Squirrels serve the best cappuccino in Kroonstad with delicious cakes and confectionary. From their breakfasts to

their lunch and dinner menu to the delicious pizza’s, Squirrels not only offer great value for money, but their food is

highly recommended. If you visit Kroonstad, treat yourself by visiting Squirrels and utilize the opportunity to sit on

their outside veranda area while watching Kroonstad go past.

The Bottling Company Pub & Restaurant (Ficksburg)

The Bottling Company Pub & Restaurant

The historic Bottling Company Pub & Restaurant at the corner of Piet Retief Street serves good steaks, pastas,

chicken and fish dishes. The Restaurant is fully licensed and is family-friendly.

The Famous Pig Out (Smithfield)

Pig Out Restaurant & Bar in Smithfield

The famous Pigout is the definitive home of Fine Country Cuisine. Our dining room is elegant and comforting and

the food is a fusion of old school colonial fine dining and modern fresh cooking.

The new movement to "slow food", where there is no mass-produced food, but just the best organic products, is

prevalent in our dining room. Each meal is individually prepared with love and care with only the freshest fare from

our own organic garden. Come and enjoy a dining experience with "kontrei" food. Our tea garden is world famous

for its excellent coffee and the best garden Quiche and sweet options. This is the place to come relax with a drink

and a snack or maybe a light meal while the kids enjoy a pony ride or just playing in the garden.

Fully Licensed, Air Conditioning, Smoking Area Available, Parking, Vegetarian Options. Children always welcome!

The Hound and Hare (Harrismith)

Stop for a bite at The Hound and Hare

If you are a fan of pub grub then you might want to plan a trip to Durban if you live in Jozi or vice versa if you live

in Durbs. You don’t need more of a reason to stop halfway and drop in at The Hound and Hare in the Eastern Free

State. On the menu are cheesy garlic snails, tongue in sweet mustard sauce, Kassler chops, chicken Cordon

Bleu, curries, vegetarian dishes and last but not least, homemade malva pudding - delicious! The delightful

country pub will serve as a good resting point on your journey and you should get to meet some of the locals.

The Red Barn Gallery (Smithfield)

The Red Barn Gallery in Smithfield

Art has become an important part of life in Smithfield and a number of resident artists regularly display their work

in the local art and craft gallery and in their own studios.

The Red Barn Gallery is the venue for larger exhibitions from time to time to which artists from elsewhere in the

country are invited.

The Rustic Relic (Smithfield)

The Rustic Relic in Smithfield

The Rustic Relic, situated in Genl Hertzog Street, Smithfield, is run from a house dating back to the late 1800's.

The Rustic Relic has a variety of collectibles, bric-a-brac, antiques as well as vintage clothing.

We offer a selection of items but please note that you will need quite a bit of time to browse through the shop! We

are open 7 days a week as well as public holidays and if you would like to visit our shop after hours, please feel

free to contact us.

The Tiger Experience at Tiger Canyons (Philippolis)

The Tiger Experience at Tiger Canyons

The Tiger Experience includes a tiger talk by John Varty - JV will tell you about the experiment, its mission and

objectives and a game drive in a specially protected vehicle where you may get up close to free ranging tigers.

The landscape and famous Karoo evening light provides perfect photographic opportunities to capture the tigers.

Also included is story telling, drumming and campfire singing and Supper.

About Tiger Canyons:

It is not an attempt to introduce tigers into Africa. It is an experiment to create a free-ranging, self-sustaining tiger

population outside Asia. From this population, third and fourth generations of tigers can be returned to Asia into

parks that meet a set of criteria which give the tigers a chance of surviving in Asia.

Visit the Blou Donki Art Gallery (Clarens)

Visit the Blou Donki Art Gallery

Situated in the heart of the picturesque village of Clarens in the Sindmill Centre you will find the Blou Donki Art

Gallery. The Blou Donki Gallery with its modern, stylish and trendy ambience, showcases artwork by leading and

emerging artists from across South Africa. The gallery houses a fine collection of paintings, ceramics, functional

art, sculptures and photography. Visit the Bliy Donki gallery next time you are in Clarens. Relax with a cup of

coffee on one of their leather sofas and immerse yourself in the world of South African contemporary art ...

Visit the Choet Visser Rugby Museum (Bloemfontein)

Visit the Choet Visser Rugby Museum

The privately owned Choet Visser Rugby Museum was first opened in 1974 and by 1976, 5000 people had been

through the doors.

The museum is the biggest private museum of its kind in the world, and houses more than 200 jerseys and rugby

related blazers as well as 450 ties. Original, signed cartoons and pictures of teams and players are displayed on

the walls. For rugby fans a visit to this museum is a very rewarding experience

Visit the Laurens van der Post Memorial Garden (Philippolis)

Laurens van der Post was born in Philippolis in 1906 as the 13th of 15 children. He went on to lead an

extraordinary and eventful life; becoming a mentor to the Prince of Wales (and godfather to one of his sons), a

friend of Carl Gustav Jung and was known to the Bushmen as ‘the white Bushman’.

The concept of the memorial garden is that life is a journey and various aspects of the design of the garden

symbolise van der Posts belief in this. There are also symbols of the different stages of his life and where it led

him.

The memorial centre also houses a museum room where his books are displayed.

Visit the Transgariep Museum (Philippolis)

Visit the Transgariep Museum in Philippolis

Situated on Voortrekkers Street in the town named after Dr J Philip, the Transgariep Museum in Philippolis

showcases three themes; Dr J Philip and the London Missionary Association, the Griqua era of Adam Kok and

Emily Hobhouse who started a weaving school after the Anglo Boer war.

The museum is divided into rooms and shows the work of Dr Philip and the Missionary Association. On display is

a book Dr Philip wrote in 1862. Other rooms focus on the life of Griqua Adam Kok. The bedroom, living room and

kitchen are furnished as they would have been in the time of Adam Kok. A stable, complete with yellowwood

beams and a horse mill which is still in good condition are also on display.

The remaining rooms pay homage to Emily Hobhouse and her spinning and weaving school which was started in

Philippolis in 1905 as a way for the Boer woman to make a living. Various photos are on display showcasing her

life. A distilling kettle (stookketel) is also on display. The museum still uses this distilling kettle to make their own

spirits which are offered to museum visitors!

Please be advised that all information was obtained from the following website link:

http://www.sa-venues.com/events/free-state-events.php