Free State DestinationsBloemfontein, Motheo Region
Bloemfontein is perched near the centre of South Africa, on the road between Cape Town in the Western Cape and Johannesburg in Gauteng. It is one of the largest cities in the country, but is known for its natural prettiness and warm hospitality. Dubbed the City of Roses, there are scores of gorgeous places to see and explore in this, South Africa’s judicial capital.
Its name means “fountain of flowers” and it is not surprising because, in the heart of the rugged Free State Province, it is abundant in colourful rose bushes. In fact, there are more than 4 000 rose bushes planted in the gardens of Kings Park, not counting the many gorgeous blooms in gardens and along streets around the city. This is complemented by the fact that, although a big centre, Bloemfontein is relatively quiet, with a distinct lack of the usual hustle and bustle of the metropolis.
Thanks to the rich history of this part of South Africa, there are beautiful historical buildings throughout the city centre. These flank the streets and showcase the classic architecture of yesteryear in graceful nostalgia. Museums dot the suburbs as a testimony to times past. They are filled to the brim with keepsakes, relics and memorabilia that tells fascinating tales.
In the heart of the city is the Franklin Game Reserve at Naval Hill. It is extremely rare to find a nature reserve right in the heart of a city, making this a very special attraction. In addition to the natural fauna and flora to be discovered within, the hill is also a fantastic vantage point from which to enjoy breath-taking views of Bloemfontein and the Free State. Hamilton Park lies at the foot of Naval Hill and is home to one of the largest collection of orchids on the planet.
Visitors to Bloemfontein that are on the hunt for fun Things to Do in Bloemfontein and see are spoilt for choice. Check out the shops and restaurants at Loch Logan Waterfront, the incredible art pieces at the Oliewenhuis Art Gallery, or Art in the Park at Kings Park. The Bloemfontein Zoo offers a wonderful opportunity to get up close and personal with chimpanzees, tigers, hippos, panthers, and cheetahs.
Bloemfontein’s laid-back appeal is the drawcard for many tourists. To accommodate these, the city is sprinkled with guest houses, bed & breakfasts, self-catering units, Bloemfontein hotels and lodges. The accommodation in Bloemfontein ranges from affordable and simple to opulent and luxurious. The city has an excellent infrastructure too, and is amply equipped to handle the needs of its locals and visitors. Bloem is about four hours from Johannesburg, 10 hours from Cape Town, and seven hours from Durban.
