Free State...Wild, Scenic and Cultural.
The defining element of the Free State is undoubtedly its great sense of open space. Its great rolling plains and fields, combined with the stark beauty of the Drakensberg escarpment which protrudes into the Free State's territory, evoke a bygone age of frontier farming life.
The history of the San people can be traced in the many rock art sites in the province. South Africa's rock art heritage is recognized by art historians as one of the world's great cultural treasures. However, some of these specimens are difficult to view because of the remote locations and fragility of the paintings.
Overall, the pace of life is slower in the Free State. The rhythm of the farm calendar dominates, and the experience is one of enjoying the good things, such as excellent food and country hospitality in incomparable surroundings of the great sandstone cliffs of the Golden Gate Park or the Maluti Mountains.
The Free State's "must-do's"
Explore the great outdoors
In this the ultimate "big sky" province, one of the best drives is the fantastic 250km Highlands Route from Harrismith via Ficksburg and Clocolan through the great Maluti Mountains.
Golden Gate National Park
This wondrous park features magnificent natural sandstone sculptures carved by Mother Nature. It also has a museum, amphitheatre and tea garden. Look out for the area's black eagles and bearded vultures.
The Qwaqwa National Park
The Sentinel Trail through this park is one of the easiest routes into the Drakensberg plateau. On your way, drop into the Basotho Cultural Village for a sense of how the indigenous people live.
Visit Clarens
This town, surrounded by sandstone cliffs, is a haven for artists and other bohemians who have set up studios and opened quaint craft stores, bars and eateries.
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