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
Mt Horeb Manor
Mt Horeb Manor offers comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation in Clarens within walking distance of the quirky town centre. Choose from the E...
Kamohelong Guest House
Kamohelong Guest House is located in Qwaqwa heartland of Free State. The guesthouse offers accommodation with peaceful garden to relax in. Kamohe...
Mont d'Or Clarens
Mont d'Or Clarens invites you to exhale deeply, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maluti Mountains, the luxurious décor, the outstanding se...
Gemsbok Cottage
Gemsbok Cottage is located in Bethlehem and provides accommodation which is 6km from the Saulspoort Dam and 2km from the Dihlabeng Shopping Mall....
Rheola's Guest Cottage
Rheola's Guest Cottage offers accommodation in a quiet and peaceful suburban area in the quaint town of Harrismith. The fully equipped 2 bedroom ...
Feathers Robin's Nest
Feathers Robin's Nest offer comfortable accommodation in Clarens in a private cottage. The cottage is close to the town center of Clarens with pi...
Rosewood Corner
Rosewood Corner B&B is situated in the centre of the village of Clarens, a very special little village surrounded by sandstone mountains. We are ...
Bethel Lodge
At Bethel Lodge, situated 4km outside of Clarens, you'll find yourself in the midst of pristine nature; a restful place, home away from home, wit...
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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