Marquad, Thabo Mofutsanyana
With a total area of less than 10 square kilometres, Marquard is a small town that is known for the excellent condition in which it is kept and for its value in terms of agri-tourism. It is situated in the South African province of the Free State, where vast open plains of golden grass and green hills rise to meet the clear blue of the African skies.
Marquard was established in 1905 and, as such, has a quaint, but significant history. This adds an old-world charm to its architecture and vibe. It is best known for the local cherry and asparagus farms, on which visitors from all over the world can immerse themselves in total peace and quiet. The local community is known for their friendly smiles and warm welcome as they take pride in their little town.
There are a number of mountain biking routes in the area. In fact, these are a major draw card to the region for the cycling enthusiasts from around South Africa and the world. The Koranna Two Mountain Cycle race is held in Marquard every spring, and is the town’s largest and most popular event. Whether leisure or competitive, mountain biking in and around Marquard is a must.
Significantly, Marquard is one of the few towns still in existence to be able to boast a working mill. The building in which this is housed is simply beautiful and definitely worth a visit, as is the monument to commemorate the Great Trek. The architecture of some of the old buildings, including the NG Kerk, is a wonderful part of the area’s rich heritage.
The capital city of Bloemfontein is about 160 kilometres from Marquard, and is an established urban area with all of the necessary facilities and amenities.
In the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options
Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary
Lions Rock Lodge offers comfortable accommodation on Kleinbloemhof Farm in Bethlehem. The main lodge has a guest lounge and a lapa area. There is...
Hoogland Guest House
Hoogland Guesthouse is situated in peaceful surroundings, yet close to the hospitals, restaurants and the CBD. We offer our guests an enjoyable s...
Clarens Escape One
Located just a five minute walk from the Clarens town square, Clarens Escape provides accommodation for four guests. The Golden Gate Highlands Na...
Village Studio
Village Studio is located in Fouriesburg and is ideal for a couple, a family or a group of friends wanting to visit the region. Only a stone thro...
4 The Mews
No 4 The Mews, is a modern self catering home (sleeps 4) in a secure and quiet establishment of eight town houses in the main street of Clarens. ...
Serenity Loft
Serenity Loft is a characterful and tranquil self-catering getaway, perched high up in Malherbe Street in Clarens, overlooking the Maluti Mountai...
His Vessel Guesthouse
His Vessel Guest House is a charming B&B in Clarens, just a 5 min drive / walk from Clarens Central. The small town of Clarens is situated at the...
Views In Clarens One
Views In Clarens One offers a beautifully styled self catering apartment situated on the edge of Clarens village, where it borders with the Clare...
La Croche Guest Lodge
La Croche Guest Lodge has en-suite rooms, luxuriously appointed with Rhodesian teak iron furniture and wooden floors. Room facilities include Wi-...
Things to do in the area
Kameelkop Hiking Trail
Start: Rietfontein cattle farm, near MarquardFinish: Rietfontein farmDuration: 23 km over 2 daysFitness: moderateOur tip: if the feedback from re...
Bell's Pass Hiking Trail
Start: just outside of Winburg on Bell's PassFinish: back where you startedDuration: 18 km over two days, or two separate day hikes Fitness: mode...
Noteworthy attractions
Golden Gate National 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 d...
Sterkfontein Dam Reserve
Rugged, steep krantzes silhouetted against the skyline, mountain slopes snugly covered with a grass blanket, deep lushly vegetated kloofs and a c...
Clarens Golf Estate
The par 71 golf course, designed and constructed by Golf Data, is bound to excite every level of golfer. All 18 holes meander along and across th...
Basotho Cultural Village
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 ...
Bethlehem Golf Club
The Bethlehem Golf Course is a Par 71 (W69), 18 hole golf course located in the lovely town of Bethlehem in the Free State. Facilities at Bethleh...
Harrismith Country Club
The Harrismith Country Club is a wonderfully kept course in the humble town of Harrismith. The golf course, famously known for being the third ol...
Mount Everest Game Reserve
The privately owned Mount Everest Game Reserve is set in a particularly scenic part of the Free State close to the town of Harrismith and, despit...
Clarens Village Conservancy
The Clarens Village Conservancy (CVC) is a group of people, homeowners and businesses who together look after the town's natural resources - land...
Normandien Pass
The Normandien Pass links Memel in the Free State with Newcastle in KwaZulu-Natal. The pass is gravel that by all accounts has seen better days, ...
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