Free State Travel & Leisure - Volume 1

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Come Join

2 Yan Co{{er Street Parys

056 811 5080 or w.rubysyarys.co. • book: Ruby's P.r-:J . .,. .. /1

"Our h piest 11----..1.- , a ts as

iii=:~ ourists always seem to come

when we stumble upon one

thing while in pursuit of

something else"

There are two worlds: the world of the tourist and the world of everyone else.

We are really spoilt in our country, when it comes to the amazing choice of outdoor adventures, around the corners of the countryside there is something exciting for everyone.

Take this first issue, the new Sun Pilgramage Route, in the Rieml;and area. The funky stores of the Platteland, Frankfort . Dinousaurs at Uniondale, The different routes of the Free State and the artist Edward van den Berg with his "Forgotten Spaces"

Things that fascinate us .... seeing how ordinary people are transformed and uplifted, such as the people in the Paul Roux area. Who are making a powerful difference in peoples lives. And the funky stores and art galleries that thrive in the Platteland.

Read a bit of everything in this first edition ...

Publisher: Suzette Annandale 083 447 4535; [email protected]

Marketing Manager: Bianca Marais 084 491 0997; [email protected]

The publisher accepts no liability of whatsoever nature arising out of or connection with the

contents of this publication . Whilst every care has been taken in compiling this publication, the

publisher does not give any warranty as to the completeness or accuracy of its contents. The

views and opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the Publisher or

contributors

3 4 8 10 12 14 15 16 19 19 20 21 24 26 28 30 31 32

A Day in the Country Forgotten open spaces The Sun Gazer Pilgrimage Paul Roux - History of the Village I love Free State Eagle Route Lion Route Map Free State Cheetah Route Flamingo Route Springbok Route Avanti Restaurant Holhoek Guest farm Uniondale Game Farm Erika Turvey How to clean Hiking boots Info and rate Card Frankfort Explorer

Online Magazine: www.sandvelder.com Facebook Page:

Free State Travel & Leisure

FREE STATE TRAVEL AND LEISURE 2

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vote for.p I R 1 FREE STATE TRAVEL AND LEISURE 3 a u o u x .

FORGOTTEN OPEN SPACES ... f,r t,.Jt ''fJ"1_/J, /.l,i1t,t 1-o lift, fJ1ti /.l,i1t,t t,.Ji/.1,, ~vt, hl>pt AA.&l hW1AJ. INW iJ 1.tfl, ,thihi

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Born in 1979, Edward van den Berg , grew up and

schooled in Witbank, Mpumalanga, South Africa and pursued his passion for art at school where he achieved numerous awards. He obtained a graphic design diploma at the Technikon Pretoria, and worked thereafter as a graphic designer. In 2004 , he started painting as a full time artist and pursued his dream, allowing him to grow his potential and talent as an artist.

Working mostly in acrylics and drawing inspiration from the beauty within nature and the emotional artistic connection hidden within it, Edward depicts this in painting landscapes, still-life , wildlife, floral studies and life drawing. Edward is often commissioned by private art collectors and companies locally, and abroad; his

paintings hang in many boardrooms and company atriums . He was also commissioned to paint the 31 portraits of the past and current Patrons and Trustees of the Kagiso Trust for their Legacy Wall which included Bishop Desmond Tutu , past First Lady Zanele Mbeki, Beyers Naude, Eric Molobi and the Rev. Frank Chikane.

SPACES. PLACES. AND BELOVED THINGS ... NOW MEMORIES LEFT

BEHIND IN FORGOTTEN OPEN SPACES.

Edward is known for his wildlife , as well as Free State landscapes, and of late he has been particularly noted for magnificent paintings of leopards which are usually painted to life-size in order to emphasise their beauty and impact. He enjoys the challenge of creating an


exclusive piece for an individual through his unique style, and the way he sees and feels things , believing that this is the essence of true art. Living in Paul Roux in the Free State, he likes to bring the richness of colour and space into his work, and especially his Free State landscapes where big clean skies and vast open horizons are incredibly inspiring . They bring their own depth to the colours that one sees at a specific time of the day or a season of the year. Here in the beautiful eastern highland village of Paul Roux is where , in the stillness, Edward 's creativity talks, and the imagination can run free with colour on any canvas he works on.

For more info feel free to visit Edward ' s website at: www.edwardvandenberg.co. za or email him directly at [email protected].

F~ STATE TRAVEL AND LEISURE

'N DINO STEM VIR 'n KWELA PAUL ROUX WEN! SMS PAUL ROUX NA 33157!

ANT/OU£ SHACK

Beautiful shop In Paul Roux. We have antiques, stunfflng portable smalls and decorative Items. we are at 39 Voortrekker Street.

Contact Okkle 0797339222

, ~ anmar 111 ........

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The ite ouse

art, antiques and country deli email: paulrouxvillage @gmail.com I Hanli +27 78 554 2486 I Rose +27 82 851 5516


A pilgrimage is not a vacation, it's an adventure!

A transformational journey during which significant changes take place. New and old memories of the heart are revisited. Blessings occur and healing takes place. On return from a pilgrimage life is seen through new eyes and there is a greater sense of our life purpose . The Sun Gazer Pilgrimage is an opportunity to break away from routines, away from the constant hustle and bustle and stresses of modern life. A chance to slow down, breathe and meditate . Walking the dirt farm roads through

our beautiful countryside in the Eastern Free State affords a pilgrim a time of inspiration, and introspection . To just BE in harmony with nature amongst the beautiful vistas, mountains and breathtaking views. A circular walk of 170kms that begins, and ends, in our small village, Paul Roux. Follow the sandstone markers from one overnight stay to the next. Walkers will pass through such small towns as Slabberts, don't blink else you might miss it, and quaint Rosenda!. Sleep in comfortable bed and breakfast lodges such as Malutizicht and Uniondale Game Farm. More

back packer style at Holhoek Game Farm and Moolmanshoek. Earthrise is an eco tourism farm that offers such things as picking fresh vegetables in season at the time of your walk and visit the local bakery for some homemade bread. Our lives are filled with moments of brilliance often overlooked . Meaningful travel illuminates those moments. The Sun Gazer Pilgrimage opens in January 2017. Please visit our website www.paulrouxvillage.co.za for more information.

olden

T he landscape of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park in South

Africa is characterized by massive , colorful sandstone formations, wooded ravines and indigenous grasslands under wonderful sunshine sky. Dark cave sand deep shelters displaying ancient rock art , all add to its mystery and splendor. The Park derives its name from the spectacular shades of gold cast by the sun on its gigantic sandstone cliffs , especially the imposing mushroom rock formation , which keeps vigil over the Glen Reenen Rest Camp. Below the cliffs the mountain slopes are covered in green vegetation and wild flowers . Truly one of SAN Parks' well hidden treasures to be explored .

The Golden Gate Highlands National Park offers a large variety of accommodation, ranging from luxury hotel suites, selfcatering cottages, log cabins to scenic and comfortable camping and caravan sites . Hotel accommodation, as well as cottages , are available at the luxury Golden Gate Hotel and Chalets and Rest Camps . Fully equipped self-catering bungalows and cottages which can accommodate a maximum of six people, can be found at the Glen Reenen Rest Camp. The Wilgenhof Environmental Education Centre with four

ate '' 1ht Frtt SI.It I.AMlupt 1~ ~ 1ttn~ hi ~ ~w ~ ~,,. Who.. I ~ wt I {ttl ~ hi~

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Former State President Dr Nelson Mandela wrote in his autobiography Long Walk to Freedom

dormitories will make youth groups feel welcome and can sleep up to 92 people.

The camping and caravan sites are equipped with excellent ablution and braai facilities. The facilities at Glen Reenen include a shop , a filling station , natural swimming pool next to the range of selfcatering facilities available inside the bungalows and the cottages . Meriting Picnic sites caters for day visitors in the National Park. Facilities at the Golden Gate Hotel and Chalets include Masutsa restaurant and bar, Brandwag lounge and curio shop. A picnic spot is available for day visitors , while conference and banqueting facilities cater for up to 250 guests. Activities include Great bird and game viewing to be enjoyed from the comfort of your vehicle . You will spot many species of animals like the Burchell 's Zebra and Red Hartebeest and Eland amongst others. Over 150 bird species have been identified in the park, including the rare Bearded Vulture, Bald Ibis and Black Eagle . A hide at the vulture restaurant enables bird lovers to observe these scavengers closely without being detected .

For those who enjoy history and culture , Golden Gate National Park also offers the


following historical sites; The oldest dinosaur nesting site in the world , Graveyards that date back before the Anglo Boer war, and Rock art sites, the experience should be highly educational. The Golden Gate Highlands National Park is a hikers paradise. A visit to the park should always include at least one leisurely walk along one of its winding nature trails , some of which start at the Glen Reenen camping site. There are many hikes available , ranging from easy to difficult. For the fit and not so fainthearted visitors , there is the two day and one night 31 km Rhebok hiking trail. According to many visitors , this trail gives you the best views in the park , such as the place called Lesotho View at the highest point of the trai l and the landscape across the Caledon river into Lesotho , which is just amazing. Horse riding and 4X4 trails through the mountainous Golden Gate are some of the most exciting experiences. Golden Gate Extreme challenge is a multi-day trail running event organized in collaboration with Wildlands Conservation Trust and SANParks Honorary Rangers, since 2011 the event has been raising over a hundred thousand rand annually for park specific conservation projects that include the bearded vulture conservation and others.

The history of this beautiful village The village of Paul Roux was established on the route of the postal coach

between Winburg and Harrismith. Approximately every 10km, there was a

stop where the postcoach horses were swapped for fresh ones and where the post

would also then be distributed; these coaches frequently also carried passengers.

Where the current bowling club now stands, there used to be an Inn which belonged

to Mr. John Hiscock. It was here where the horses wou ld be changed . A bugle would

be blown as the coach came over the hill so that the fresh horses could be harnessed

up ready for the exchange; this would thu s ensure that no time would be wasted in

changing the horses in order for the coach to speed off to the next post station . John

Hiscock's grave is situated just south of the bowling green. Transport riders would

often overnight in his Inn.

The Postal Tree On the corner of Van Rooyen and Mark streets stands a large oak

tree; it was under this tree the post would be left by the postal coach. There is, to this

day, still a servitude which app lies to this tree, and it may not be cut or dama ged in

anyway.

Zuuringkrans and the Cleaver family Ten kilometres on the road to Senekal, lies the

farm Zuuringkrans which is currently owned by Hentie Senekal. A postal coach

horse-changing station was also situated here . It was here where Mostyn Reginald

Cleaver was born 2"' December 1862. At thi s stage her parents were already the

owners of a shop at Zuuringkrans . Here they used to receive the post from the coach

and would ensure the distribution of the letters to their proper destination s. This

was the nearest shop in what was a very large area; groceries, farm products and

even wool could be purchased here. In the door of the kitchen there is still a postal

slit , where apparently letters can still be posted. Past the house there is a stable

where the floor is laid with round stones, and it is here where the horses were

rested.

Some interesting facts about Moslyn Cleaver. He had decided as a young man to

study further in England. He qualified as an Advocate and returned to South Africa,

where he was th en appointed by General Jan Smuts . With the outbreak of the Boer

War, he took a decision to fight on the side of the Boers. Although his mother

protested and pressured him not to fight against his own English country men, he

stood firm insisting that he was born here and that the Boers were his people.

During the war, he was taken prisoner by the English and they called on him to take

an oath of allegiance to the Queen of England where after they promised to set him

free . He refused, and was sent to Ceylon as a prisoner of war where he eventually

died offever in captivity .

The Origin of the Village Paul Roux The Village was proclaimed on the 9'" of May

1909. The land was purchased from a Mr de Jongh. The original home stead is still

occupied, and the old family grave yard remains next to the hou se.

The Name of the Village There had been some friction as to what the name of the

village shou ld be. One half of the village wanted the name to be Paul Roux who was

the minister of the Senekal congregation (Rev. Paul Roux was also a military genera l),

and the other half wanted the village to be called Du Plessis Ville. In order to solve

the dispute, it was decided to engrave the letter s "PR" on one side of a flat stone and

"Dup" on th e other side. A Jacobus Smit had to throw the stone into the air and the

village was to be named according to th e name which initi als appeared facing

upw ards wh en it landed. A large crowd of people gathered on th e open land next to

the current APK Church, in order to see what the Village name would be. " PR" fell

facing upwards. A public sale of plots took place in 1910, and these plots were sold

for a shilling each (approximately 50c in today's value). Mo st of the sandstone

hou ses that were built back then by farmers were used as homesteads. Their homes

were also open for use for church services especially for communion. A building in

which to hold church services had not yet been built. Rev. C.P Theron and associate

Rev. H.A Roux wou ld come to Paul Roux in order to hold church services which would

be held on the banks of the Sandrivier under the shade of the wi llow trees. Once

buildings were built in the village , services were then also held on the veranda of the

National Bank. This building has been preserved in Voortr ekker Street, and is now a

private dwelling. Later services were also held in a dance hall. Strong objections

were made where after the dancing was stopped in the building. Eventually services

were held at the schoo l building.

Building Fund established Mr Okert van Schalkwyk was awarded the tender as the

building manager and contractor for the bui lding of the church. The corner stone of

the church was laid on 13'" of May 1914 by Rev. CP Theron. The congregation was

established on Thursday 25'" of June; at that time the walls of the church were 11 ft

high . Unfortunately, the building work had to halt during the rebellion at which time

grass grew against the walls because clay had been used to hold the bricks together.

After the rebell ion, the building manage r worked quickly and the church building

was handed over to the congregation in September 1915. The inauguration took

place on 10'" February 1917, although the pews were only insta lled in November

1917.

The New Teacher Rev. Hendrik Boshoff, was appointed 5'" October 1915. He was

willing to take up the appointment if the congregation was prepared to wait until he

was released as a prisoner of war from the Fort in Johanne sburg. It was surely a fir st

that a Pastor would be called out of prison! He was received in Paul Roux on Friday

25'" February 1916. During communion services the women would sit on one side of

the church and the men on the other. The reason? There used to be only one

communion wine cup and the women would be served first because several of the

men would chew tobacco leaving a horrib le taste on the cup which the women

disliked . A branch of the women' s missionary society was established in Paul Roux in

1916. The church building as it appears today was completed by a later reverend , H.

Reyneke, when the church tower was built. The cornerstone of the tower was laid on

the 25'" February 1947.

Other businesses in the village Various Jewish businesses opened t heir doors; there

was Margoliu s, Khosoff and Schatz, Kristal!, Sadoff and Levi. The community was

able to buy all their needs from these businesses. Fuhrmann had a shop where one

could buy fresh fruit and vegetabl es. The hotel, which still operates today as the

Rosenhof Guest lodge, was also bui lt during 1927. Tennis was played on the first

tenni s courts as early as 1915, and in Voortrekker Street , the first Post Offic e was

built with the large auction pens oppos ite. The Post Office was also a sandstone

building which was later converted into a double story dwelling . Part of the main

road to Bloemfontein was Voortrekker Street which ran through the village and at

that time the road was not fenced off. Between Paul Roux and Bloemfontein in 1927

there were 123 gates which traveller s had to open and close; it was surely a time

consuming business travelling to the city!

The School and Boarding House On the 8'" Octob er 1912, the schoo l with 52 pupils

and principal HJJ van Rensburg was formed, and back then in January 1922, it was

also a high school. At a community meet ing on 10'" January 1920, t he building of a

hostel was also approved. In the interim , a building belonging to Mr CTvan

FREE STATE TRAVEL AND LEISURE 1 0

Schalkwyk was rented, and on lO'h April 1920, a temporary hostel with 12

school borders was opened. The Retief Boarding house was named after

a teacher CW Retief, and at the end of 1930 it was handed over by the

contractor, J Andrews, to the church council , In January 1931, the first 16

boarders moved into their new boarding house.

Former State President PW Botha He was certainly one of the most

famous people who came from Paul Roux. He was born on 12'h January

1916, on the farm "Telegraaf', situated just outside Paul Roux. He

attended school in the village for 11 years before finishing his schooling

at Voortrekker High school in Bethlehem where he matriculated . He

would ride every day to school in Paul Roux on a horse and, even as a

child, he would buy a newspaper daily which he would read before riding

home. From a young age, he developed an interest in politics and

national affairs. He was in standard 9 (grade 11) when he wrote in the

back of his science book: 'PW Botha. Telegraaf. Paul Roux. Minister of

Defence'. During his mother's, Hendriena's, 80'" birthday celebration,

the son of his half-brother, Joachem Prinsloo, presented the book to him

- PW was very surprised; he acknowledged that it was his handwriting

but could not remember that he had written it. He had been appointed

as a young man, to be Secretary of the National Party in Cape Town and

later he became a member of the National Assembly. Thereafter, he

achieved his schoolboy dream when he was made Minister of Defence,

thereafter Prime Minister, and eventually State President.

Tombstone Monument A Tombstone Monument of General Rev. Paul Roux after

whom the village was named, is to be seen to the north of the church in its grounds.

Two reverends are also buried here: Rev H. Bosh off and Rev.CW Retief.

spans the Koppie. The route takes one under large trees and up over rock

formations. It is not a strenuous walk and anyone who wishes to go for a stroll will

really enjoy th is t rail. Safe parking is available at the APK Church in Joubert Street. It

is especially beautiful to see our village from the top of the Koppie.

The San Bushman Paintings In various places in the district, one can find bushman

paintings, such as on the farm' Telegraaf', belonging to Hendrik Smit, 'Lusthof' of

SusanJacobsz and on the Witkop Game Ranch.

There are graves of children at the farm 'Marthinusdal'. During the Great Trek, the

Voortrekker s, under the leadership of J.J Prinsloo were situated on the banks of the

Sandrivier, which is today the farm 'Marthinusdal' . Two children who had died of

measles are buried here. With the symbolic Trek of 1938, a monument was erected

at the graves. This was unveiled by Mrs N.C Pretorius who was the daughter of Mr.

MV Pretorius, who had built the Gelofte Kerk in Pietermaritzburg.

Walking Trail A walking trail of approximately 1 hour and 18min was developed by

Mr. Theuns Van Rooyen. The Village has a beautiful Nature Conservancy which also

On the 10'" of October 2015, the Paul Roux Resident's Forum held their first

Hollhoek 40km mountain bike race/10 km fun run and waterfall fun walk. It was to

raise funds to rehabilitate the Rooidam in Paul Roux, and to promote the area as a

tourist attraction. Two farmers in the vicinity, Gert Van Zyl (Holhoek) and Andries

van Vuuren (Marocco) granted the Forum permission to hold the sporting events

on their respective farms. Routes were planned and there was a lot of marketing

done. Natural ly, there was much nail bit ing as to whether people would support

the event or not. As always, the Eastern Free state did not disappoint and entries

were received, not only from Paul Roux and surrounds, but also as far away as

Johannesburg. Radio Maluti also stepped up to the plate and provided a lot of

marketing for the day together with a live broadcast.

Paul Roux Villiage, a special place, where a fine balance is kept between preserving the farm village character and its country life charm, but where sustainable and environmentally-friendly

development is pursued providing a safe and secure have, which is well managed, has a good

infrastructure and is known for its friendliness and diversity of people. Here we have local farmers and business people, professionals, retirees, artists,

crafters, and those living here just for the joy that simple country living can bring. Residents proudly

bring friends to visit the village, but if you are

looking for accommodation, the village has Dunlin

B&B and Rosenhof Lodge. Primarily, the Village is a place where one can truly

relax. But there are a host of acitivities to keep one

busy such as Hiking - the famous Holhoek Hiking Trail where one can see bushman caves and their art. Visiting the dinosaur fossil foot prints either by

4 x 4 or as a hike. Gently strolling along the village trail for those that are not serious hikers. Taking morning coffee or sundown drinks on the koppie

above the village. Kids can safely ride their bicycles. Excellent fishing, bird watching and geological sites are in the vicinity. Partake of an

excellent meal and friendship at the Pink Tricycle Tea Room, Dino's Antiques and Restaurant and The

Rock, a great base for off-road biking and popular

for classic car clubs.

The village has an active residents forum that is involved in activities to promote the vision of the

village and to encourage people to join in arranged


activities and social life, and the village is also a registered conservancy. During the 89'" annual

meeting ofWESSA (Wildlife Environment Society of

South Africa) the forum was awarded the WESSA national group award in recognition of the excellent work taken by the group for the benefit of

environmenta l conservation in their community, through action taken to ensure compliance with environmenta l legislation.

The village has several artists including Rosemarie Schutze, Edward van den Berg, Peter van Reenen,

Hanli de Lange, Nanna Brits and Anton Grove The

Uniondale Game Farm has dinosaur footprints

dating back many millions of years and you could also visit Witkop Game Farm for a game drive.

,

Uniting Free State through Tourism I Love Free State aim to unite the Free State province through Tourism. We envision having the tourism sector united in an effort to increase our province's tourism market share and increasing the capital investment in this province through various innovative tourism projects. We strive to uplift the people of the Free State and are working tirelessly towards creating an environment which is conducive to job creation in this sector. We have the privilege of opening a window to our beloved province for the world to see what the Free State can offer . We believe that the love

people share for this province runs deep within their core being and sharing the love will do a lot for social cohesion for the people that call it home. We have been privileged

to build up a huge fan base and are fortunate to see first-hand how our friends share their love daily. The introduction of this journey has now been written and we cannot wait to experience where this journey will lead us.


the free state 's

big

Cheetah Route

Lion Route

Springbok Route

SMALLEST CHURCH IN SA The top of Van Reenen's Pass, on the main road between KZN and Harrismith, you'll find South Africa's smallest church - the Llandaf Oratory. The tiny Roman Catholic church was built by the Maynard Matthews as a tribute to his son, Llandaff, who died in 1925 while rescuing 8 co-workers in a mining accident at the Burnside Colliery in Glencoe. Significantly , the little church can only accommodate 8 people. Now a National Monument, the church is open to the public during daylight hours.

FREE STATE TRAVEL AND LEISURE Magazine www.sandvelder.com - online Magazine

THE TOWNS TO EXPLORE ON THE EAGLE ROUTE ARE: Ladybrand, Clocolan, Ficksburg, Fouriesburg, Clarens, Bethlehem, Phuthaditjhaba , Harri smith, Memel.

LEGENDARY LADYBRAND Visit a host of natural wonders , includ ing The Stables (a huge rock shelter used by the Boers to stable horses during the 1858 Basotho War) and the ; Cave Church (a hollow

sandston e outcrop where Anglican missionaries worshipped, and where Africanist churches make pilgrima ges); Modderpoort (Lekhalong la Mantsopa) and the grave of the legendary BaSotho prophetess Anna Mantsopa Makhetha. FUN IN CLOCOLAN Fish at the 2 hectare Amohela Ho Spitskop dam and adjacent deep water quarry for

rainbow trout, black bass and carp. Catch the unforgettable Vint age Tractor Fair each March. Take a peek at the prestigious Prynnsberg Heritage Home. Don't miss a visit to Highlands Essential Oils, the

Angora Rabbit Farm and the Ben Nevis Cherry Wine Farm. FICKSBURG - CHERRY CAPITAL OF THE WORLD You can't visit Ficksburg without going to the loni a Cherry

Farm and ta stin g th e famous lonia Cherry Liqueur. The highlight of the year is the world -class Cherry

Festival, which takes place each November. Other Ficksburg attractions are: The Gumtree - SA's tallest sandstone building; General Fick's monument; The White Mischief Cruise boat; Organic indu stries at Green Goose Organics and Ember Down; Meqheleng Township in Ficksburg , where many Basotho from

Lesotho come to shop . NATURAL BEAUTY IN FOURIESBURG Visit the

mystical Motou leng Cave, a tradit ional ancestra l worship site, and t ake a drin k from the sacred spring. Exper ience ind igenous bird life amidst the sandstone cliffs and caves of Meiringskloof Natu re Reserve. See the Surrender Hill Battle Site (where 4,000 Boer soldier s surre ndered during the Anglo-Boer War)

and a monument to fa llen British soldiers.

ART, CRAFT AND ADVENTURE IN CLARENS Famous as an artists' and crafters ' paradise, Clarens is also a dream-come-true for outdoor enthu siasts. Here are a few reasons why Clarens is called the "Jewel of the Free State": 18 art galleries , and dozens of arts & crafts shops.; The famous Clarens Brewery; Golden Gate Highland s Nation al Park; The oldest dinosaur nesting site ever found ; Sports activities galore, including white water rafting, abseiling, 4X4 or quad bike safaris and golfin g. BETHLEHEM'S BIG CATS At Bethlehem you'l l find

Lions Rock, an extraordinary w ildlife rehabilit ation and breeding centre that has rescued more than 60 big cats from all over the wo rld. Also visit the monuments at Sol Plaatje Dam and the Old Nazareth Mission Church. SOTHO CULTURE IN PHUTHADITJHABA See Wets i's

cave, where Chief Wetsi of the Makholokhoe tribe hid cattle sto len from t he Boer. Walk to the top of the 850m- high Tugela Falls on the Sentinel Hiking

Trail. Visit the Basotho Cultural Village (Tel: 058 721 0300) and experience Sotho life dating back to the 16t h century . Drive up to th e Wits ieshoek Mountain Resort and visit the legendary Vulture Restaurant . HISTORIC HARRISMITH Visit the historic Deborah Retief Garden s and see a 250 million -year -old , 33m

high petrified tree. Relax at the beautiful Sterkfontein Dam Resort and Nature Reserve.

MEMEL Surrounding the town of Memel is the Seekoeivlei Nature Reserve, a 30sq km wetland which has international RAMSAR status. At certain times of the year, thou sands of water birds

congregate here, making the area a true birdin g paradise.

RESERVES AND RESORTS Sterkfontein Nature Reserve and Resort-23km from Harri smith .Tel: 058 622 3520 Golden Gate Highland s National Park and Resort -17km from Clarens.Tel: 058 255 1000 Me iri ngskloo f Nature Reserve - 17km from

Fouriesberg.Tel: 058 223 0067

THE TOWNS ALONG THE LION ROUTE ARE: Deneysville, Sasolburg, Parys, Vredefort, Kroonstad.

DENEYSVILLE - SA'S INLAND RIVIERA Situated at the wall of the Vaal Dam, Deneysville is just an hour's drive from Johannesburg. Known as SA's " Inland Riviera", Deneysvi lle is famous for: Water sport of all kinds, from power boating to laid -back pontoon boat trips and fishing charters . The annual "Round the Island" Yacht Race -South Africa's biggest inland regatta. The Deneysville Croc Ranch which has about 2,800 crocodiles and also farm s emus. SASOLBURG - MORE THAN JUST OIL Sasolburg is most well known for its unique oil -from -coal inst allat ion, but it has plenty else to see and do : An Olympic size swimming pool and world-class athletics facilities . The Ettienne Rousseau Theatre which hosts a wide range of Afrikaans and other artists . Gallery 88 which houses a stunning collection of contemporary South African art . A bird sanctuary with up to 70 species of Highveld birds. The Riemland Museum and Riemland Wine Route at Heilbron, an hour 's drive away.

PARYS - YOUR FREE STATE PARADISE The beautiful town of Parys is situated on the banks of the Vaal River, and has become a firm favourite fo r both art and adventure lovers. With so many attr actions, you ' ll find it's the perfect paradise for you. 42 restaurants and a wide variety of arts & crafts shops. Play a round of golf on Golf Island in the middle of the Va al River. Pick berries off the bush at Bon-Af Berry Farm and see SA's only black raspberries .

Interact with the big cats at the Dell Cheetah Centre. Visit Tumahole township ju st outside Parys - birthplace of Free State Premier, Mr Ace Magashule. Head fo r the Vaal River or the mountains of the Vredefort Dome and enjoy nature from land, water and sky. VREDEFORT'S BIG BANG The small town of Vredefort is the gateway to the world' s oldest and largest crater, the Vredefort Dome. Recently named a World Heritage Site, the 300km-wide crater was created when a meteorite the size of Table Mountain-sized struck the earth 2,000 million years ago. Attractions include: Spectacular rock formations, including the world's only pink granite. A wealth of plant, bird and animal life. Water sport on the Vaal River. A nearby Lion Breeding Programme.

WALK THROUGH TIME IN KROONSTAD Kroonstad was the first town established after the Orange Free State became independent. Situated on the banks ofthe beautiful Vais River, a tributary of the Vaal, it is rich in history and outdoor opportunities . Historical sites include : A concentration camp and blockhouse from the Anglo-Boer war (1899-1902). The Bloemspruit Monument for concentration camp victims. A Garden of Remembrance for Allied Pvictims of th e two world wars.Prehi storic stone corbelled huts . San rock art and fossils .. OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: Golf on an 18-hole golf course; Inter act ion with lion and ti ger cubs; Fishing on the Vais River or the Bloemho ek Dam; Boating on the Serfontein Dam; Horse riding , gliding, hiking and more .

RESERVES AND RESORTS Koppies Dam Nature Reserve and Resort- 71km from Kroonstad. Tel: 056 7770927

CAPE WINE TASTING ... IN THE FREE STATE! You don't have to travel to the Cape to

experience the delights of some of the best wines in the world. Two farm s in the

Heilbron District near Sasolbur g have

come together to form the Riemland Wine Route - an authentic Cape wine

tasting experience in 100-year-old cellars with wooden tables, narrow-rimmed

wine-sniffing glasses, spittoons and water

jugs for cleansing the palate .

Francolin Creek market s the boutique wines of Kloovenburg Vineyards , Shiraz Country, Riebee k Kasteel, Groote Post

and Babylon's Peak. Goedehoop Wine Cellar markets the well-known Van

Loveren wines from the Van Loveren

Estate near Robertson.

FREE STATE TRAVEL AND LEISURE Magazine www.sandvelder.com - Read our online Magazine

• dley

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TRAVEL THROUGH SPACE

Did you know that Bloemfontein boasts the

very first digital planetarium in Sub-Saharan

Africa? Offic ia lly opened in November 2013,

the Naval Hill Planetarium is situated at the

old Lamont -Hussey Observatory Building on

Naval Hill. The digital dome boasts a 12-

metre aluminium screen, a powerful

surround-sound system and multiple data

projectors which allow visitors a

breathtaking experience of the galaxy.

The Naval Hill Planetarium was estab lished

by the University of th e Free State w ith the

support of the Department of Science and

Technology , the Free State Department of

Economic Development, Tourism and

Environmental Affairs and the Mangaung

Metro Munic ipality . The project is

envisaged as the fir st component in a

proposed "Centre for Earth and Space" - a

multi-purpose facility which will ho st the

digital planetarium, an environmental

education centre and a science and arts

garden. For bookings and information, call

051401 9751.

TOWNS ON THE CHEETAH ROUTE ARE: Bloemfontein, Botshabelo , Thaba-Nchu.

BORN IN BLOEM Did you know that the National Party, the African National Congress (ANC), as well as the legenda ry writer JRR Tolkien, were all born in Bloemfontein? The beautiful city, which is also the

provincial capital and the legislative nation al capita l, boasts a massive range of attra ction s, including: • The Naval Hill Precinct which is home to a Digital Planetarium , a Fragrance Garden for the Blind, the 250ha Franklin Game Reserve, the iconic 6.5m tall bronze

statue of Nelson Mandela , and a picnic spot. The

Hill with its viewin g decks affords visitors the opportunity of a panoramic view of Bloem's urban landscape . • Fantastic flora at the Botanical Gardens and the Orchid House. • King's Park, home of the Bloemfontein Zoo and the 80,000sq m Loch Logan Waterfront - SA's largest inland mall, set alongside a picture sque lake. • Cultural hotspot s includin g th e Oliewenhuis Art Mu seum & Gallery and the Sand Du Plessis Theatre. • Museums galore-the Anglo-Boer War Museum, the Choet Visser Rugby Museum, the SA Armour Mu seum , the Fire Station Mu seum, t he National

Museum (wh ich hou ses the famous Florisbad skull), the Queen's Fort Milit ary Museum and the Nat ional Women's Memoria l.

"KASIE" TOURISM IN BOTSHABELO A visit to the Free State is not complete without experiencing "Kasie" (lokasie/location) tou rism and a visit to a "Chisa Nyama" (traditional barbeque) or "shebeen " (bar). While you are in Botshabelo, pay

a visit to th e Moroka Chiefs Monument and some places of entertainment in t he area. A number of buildings still stand as a reminder of the township 's role in the struggle against apartheid, and there is a connection between facilities in Botshabelo , Thaba Nchu and Bloemfonte in. Some of these connections are found in places such as:

• The Free State Youth Martyrs' Mo nument. • The house of Me Moipone Mohlakoana (Free State President of the ANC Women's League and a

member of the 1952 Defiance Campaign). • Ramkraal Prison (where many freedom fighte rs were incarcerated) .

• Paradise Hall (the gatheri ng p lace for the 1952 Defiance Campaign) .

• Mapikela House (Ulundi Khaya).

THABA NCHU'S RICH HERITAGE Thaba Nchu is named after the 2,138m-h igh Thaba Nchu mountain where the Barolong nation was centred in the 1830s. On a visit to the Chief's Kraal you might even catch a glimpse of traditional trib al court proceedi ngs. Ratlou Location in Thaba Nchu is the birthplace of Dr JS Moroka, President of the ANC from 1949-1952. His home , Moroka House, is

now a national monument . Nearby are the Maria Moroka Nation al Park and the Rustfonte in Dam and Nature Reserve.

RESERVES AND RESORTS

Franklin Game Reserve-Cent ral Bloemfontein . No accommo dation.Tel : 051412 7016 Ma ria Moroka Nationa l Park- Thaba Nchu .Tel: 051

873 2427 Rustfon tein Dam Nature Reserve - near Thaba Nchu. No accommodation.Te l: 051528 2926


THE ROUTE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING TOWNS: Bothaville, Welkom, Ventersburg, Virginia, Winburg, Brandfort

BOTHAVILLE - A SMALL TOWN WITH A BIG HEART The small town of Bothaville is famous for the world's second largest private agricultural show: the NAM PO Harvest Festival, held each May. Places of interest include: The Doorn kraal Monument- honouring the

Boers killed dur ing the Battle of Doorn kraal. Hiking, birdwatching and watersport opportunitie s. Sadat and Middelbult farms, which breed Arabian horses. Middelbult and Slots Rose Farm, which have hundreds of rose hybrids. The Tarentaalbosch Christmas Market - a large art and craft market held annually at the end of October. WELCOME TO WELKOM One of South Africa 's

youngest citie s, Welkom was established after the discovery of gold in the area in 1947. Welkom 's many

interesting tourist attractions include: The Gold Museum - a fascinating history of gold mining and

the origins of Welkom . Underground mine tours through a modern mine. The Phakisa Freeway Race Track - one of the fastest tracks in the world. The

Harmony and Sibanye gold mines . The Welkom Flea Market event, held every second we ek of th e month . The challen ging and well -kept Oppenheimer Park Golf Course. Klippan Farm, featuring a variety of animals and traditional Free State farming equipment. Aandenk Monument, where the first borehole was drilled in search of gold . Thabong Township, where most migrant worker s on the Welkom Mines lived. FASCINATING VENTERSBURG The tiny town of Ventersburg has a colourful history. Here you can see: The ruin s of the Basotho chief Moshoeshoe's

Kraal; The country 's only fully-restored Police Museum; The remains of the Voortrekker hospital ; The Skanskraal Monument ; The graves of children who died in the measles epidemic of the 1830s; The well-pre served ruin s of a prehistoric settlement; The

Sand River Monument.

If you're looking for a fun family outing, visit the popular Al dam Resort or the Willem Pretoriu s Game Reserve overlooking the Allemanskraal Dam. VIRGINIA'S HEART OF GOLD A beautiful town with a strong gold mining heritage, Virginia is the home of the famous Virginia Jewellery School (tel: 057 904 4364). Visitors can also enjoy boating , fishing and water-skiing on the Sand River, or hiking and birdwatching along the river banks. The nearby

Tikwe Lodge Nature Drive offers 40 species of buck, zebras and giraffes, as well as cruises along the Sand River. WINBURG - A WINDOW ON THE VOORTREKKERS The oldest proclaimed town in South Africa , Win burg is home to the Free State's Voortrekker Monument and also the Voortrekker Museum. The Voortrekkers ("pioneer s" in Dutch/ Afrikaan s) moved by ox wagon from the Cape Colony into the int erior in the 1830s-40s. The nearby Erfenis Dam Natur e Reserve offers great fishing and game viewing. BRANDFORT ... WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT? The small town of Brandfort was where Nelson Mandela's former wife, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, spent nine years under house arrest for terror ism from 1977-1985 . You can still see her former home in

the township of Majwemasweu . Another int eresting piece of histo ry is the Florisbad archaeological site at Soutpan, 45km from Brandfort. See where the skull of a 260,000 year-old hominid and other fossi ls have been found, then visit the renovated Florisbad Resort for some R&R. You can also see graves dating back to the concentration camps of the Anglo-Boer war. RESERVES AND RESORTS Willem Pretoriu s Nature Reserve and Resort - 30km from Vent ersburg.Tel: 057 6514003/4 Sandveld Nature Reserve and Resort - 126km from Bothaville.Tel: 053 4331701/2/3 Erfenis Dam Nature Reserve - 30km from Winburg.Tel: 057 733 2125

Soetdoring Nature Reserve, Resort and Predator Park- 45km from Bloemfontein .Tel: 051 433 1167

PHAKISA - SA MOTORSPORT'S BEST KEPT SECRET Just off the R70 north of Welkom lies the Phakisa Freeway Race Track, built in 1998, the fourth fastest track in the world . With a Formula 1 Grand Prix flat circuit and a Super Speedway Oval, Phakisa hosts a number of national and international races - including the six World Motorcycle Grand Prix events to date, the South African Motorcycle Grand Prix, the National Super Series and the Midas Histories Tour. With 14 turns, the 12m-wide Grand Prix Track is rated as one of the safest circuits, but also one of the most demanding. As Valentino Rossi says, "you have to be brave to win here." See if you can beat Rossi's amazing 1 min 31 sec time!

Phakisa Freeway Race Track: • is the only motor racing track with speedway track outside USA and Africa's only track to host MotoGP events • is a 4-in-1 track with a flat, a short , an up-and-down and an oval track

FREE STATE TRAVEL AND LEISURE Magazine www.sandvelder.com - Read our online Magazine

19

THE TOWNS ALONG THE SPRINGBOK ROUTE ARE: Jakobsdal, Koffiefontein, Jagersfontein, Bethulie, Gariep Dam, Philippolis

DIAMONDS AND WINE AT JAKOBSDAL The town of Jakobsdal is part of the Diamond and Wine Route which extends down to the diamond mine hole at Jagersfontein . Diamonds were discovered in the area in 1867. Grapes have been grown in the area since 1972. Be sure to visit the Landzicht and Wilreza wine cellars in Jakobsdal. The town played a major role in the Anglo-Boer War of 1899-1902. The Magersfontein Battlefields and Museum are 20km out of town.

COLOURFUL KOFFIEFONTEIN Transport riders used to outspan (unharness) their horses here in the 19th century, and the story goes that their taste for coffee gave the town its name - and its distinctive coffee pot fountain. Other places of interest include: An Open Air Museum dedicated to the prisoners of war who were held in the area during World War II; San rock art; The Diamond Game Farm. A bird park and the 9-hole Koffiefontein Golf Club. The grave of South African author Etienne le Roux. The Burger Monument, the Great Trek Monument and the famous Paardeberg Battlefield near Fauresmith, en route toJagersfontein. JAGERSFONTEIN'S BIG ROCKS The humble town of Jagersfontien produced two of the biggest diamonds ever discovered. The open-pit Jagersfontein diamond mine was dug by hand between 1870 and 1909 and measures 760m from one side to the other (and is nearly as deep). With a top area of 19.65 hectares, it is 2.65 hectares bigger than the Big Hole in Kimberley! Other historic sites include: The Jagersfontein Graveyard where many AngloBoer war heroes were buried. Original water pumps which still stand in the

town's streets . The Moth Museum which features memorabilia from the Anglo-Boer War, the Namibian Border War and both world wars. Several Anglo-Boer War blockhouses en route towards Bethulie, near Springfontein. A BIT OF EVERYTHING AT BETHULIE The l.2km-long DH Steyn Bridge which connects the Free State to the Cape. Tussen-die-Riv i ere; Reserve. Klaversfontein Angora Rabbit Farm. The 185-yearold Pellissier House Museum and other historical monuments. GARIEP DAM, THE FREE STATE'S YOUNGEST ATIRACTION Only registered as a municipality in 1994, the town of Gariep Dam was voted the Volksblad Tourism Town of the Year for 2010. What makes it so special? Site of the first hydro-electric power station built by Eskom, 13km of passages and halls within the Gariep Dam wall. Fishing and water sport on the dam. The annual Gariep Dam Water Sport Festival every February. The Free State's largest nature reserve-Gariep Dam Nature Reserve. TIGERS IN THE FREE STATE Take a trip up past Philippolis to visit the tigers at Tiger Canyons on the Van Der Kloof Lake in the Karoo. The Laurens van der Post Memorial Centre, the Emily Hobhouse Memorial and the Old Jail are other attractions worth seeing. RESERVES AND RESORTS Tussen Die Riviere Nature Reserve and Resort -15km from Bethulie.Tel: 051 7631000/1/2 Gariep Dam Nature Reserve and Resort - Gariep Dam and Bethulie.Tel: 0517540048 Caledon Nature Reserve- Near Smithfield . Camping only.Tel: 051583 2000/1/2 Kalkfontein Nature Reserve-Between Koffiefontein and Jagersfontein. Camping only.Tel: 051 723 1028/7

DID YOU KNOW? The Anglo-Boer War of 1899-1902 may seem remote compared to the antiapartheid struggle, but the memory of

it is very much alive. Every town and cultural group in the Free State was affected by the war in some way, and you'll find war memorials and museums across the province.

The Anglo-Boer War originated from rivalry between the expanding British Empire and the young South African Republic in the Transvaal (which was joined in combat by the Republic of the Orange Free State). In the biggest war ever waged on South African territory, some 7,792 British and 6,000 Boer soldiers were killed. In the British concentration camps, a further 26,370 Boer women and children died, along with approximately 20,000 black Africans.


0 AVANT I

* AUTHENT I C I TALIAN RESTAURANT *

At Avanti we share a meal together. It's a way of celebrating friends, family and good food.

Our Food

051447 4198 53 2nd Ave I Westdene

051436 7981 Shop 21A I Woodland Hills Village

At Avanti no t hing is left to chance . From a simple homemade biscotti with your imported Ita lian Cappuccino to our delic ious homemade lamb ravioli, every part of our presentation is carefully selected For excellence.

Our Restaurant Avanti Restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Bloemfontein to Find authentic Italian dishes. Come relax in a comfortable atmosphere, enjoy your Food and stay as long as you like, because when you're here your Family!

Avanti Service Profe ssionalism and charisma. These are the hallmarks of our best wa itron s. Many of our regula rs ask For our wa itrons by name and some even make book ings w ith the m on a personal basis.

Our goal is to create the atm osphere of hom e. We are not aloo f or over bearing. You w ill always find a manager nearby to say hello and tend to your needs.

Bookings Sometimes it can get a bit busy, so please boo k a table to avoid disappoin tmen t, espec ial ly wit h b i rthdays an d specia l celebration s. For book ings please phone: 051-44 7 4198 Westdene or our new venue OS 1-436 7981 Woodland Hills Village. Terms For bookin g a table >> Please arrive on tim e or phone ahead if you're going to be late , we wo uldn't wa nt to give your tab le to someone else, but you have an half an hou r leniency.


Should yo u req uire it , we will be glad to make your book ing ju st th at little bit more special w ith some ext ra cand les and flowe rs. Our passion is that you enjoy every mome nt at Avant i.

Opening hours Mondays to Thur sdays: 11 h30 to 22h00 Fridays& Saturdays: 11h30to 22h3 0 Sundays: 11 h30 to 15h00

not ~hy to give!

I 6km from the picturesque, arti,t ic lmrn or Clarcn, On the nuin route lo

Golden Gate :'l:ational Park Directh- next lo the 1nain road

:1 Beauti ful full\' equipped rottai.{e!'t

,\ rnm1nH><latirn1 for I.; people in total

Campin g !-tiles for cara, ·;m!'t and lcnb

Indoor swin1rning pool

ESTELLE NAU DE Tel I Fax O.i8 :10:1 1289

Fax to e-mail : 08(i .iG8 1918 ce11 : 082 aas :1m 1

E-mail : i11fi, .jastdl e@n, d ,unail .co .za

Free State Travel and Leisure Magazine The area's cutting

edge Tourism Magazine

ADVERTS:

Free State Travel and Leisure is a regional community tourism and business

magazine. (Also online) Marketing and promoting the

Free State. The full-color, gloss magazine covers

tourism, culture, the communities, events and

attractions in this region. It is a free publication.

The reader will be introduced to the area through the advertising

and editorial mix of excellent photography,

various articles related to Marketed under the slogan tourism, community,_ where

' to stay, food, festivals, "I Love Free State". outdoor adventure

The magazine is the reader's passport to affordable

destinations. Articles are entertaining, packed with beautiful photography and stories about interesting

places to visit in this area.

education, arts, entertainment, business

profiles and more.

Contact Bianca Marais

084 491 0997 ore mail sandvelder2@gmail. cam

Read magazine online: www.sandvelder. cam

Biddulphsberg is a Private Nature Reserve and Game Ranch in Senekal. The Mountain Resort offers 3 self catering units, hunting opportunities, game viewing, and a walking trail.

~-

' l -\ -.'"'!' ,- - ' l!. -"': ~Ill

We have a lovely lapa & chapel which can be rented for functions & weddings and can seat up to 120 people.

Rita 083 259 6071 I 058 481 2302 I www.biddulphsberg.com


One of the finest in Bloemfontein accommodation, Guest accommodation , is situated on a Merino sheep farm,

House establishments in South Africa. and the best allowing you to experience the best of the Free State

choice for your stay in the Free State Country lifestyle.

This is a luxurious, award winning, four-star Owners Gerhard and Marie Lombard established De

Bloemfontein guest house, situated 35km south of Oude Kraal Country Estate and Spa through hard work ,

Bloemfontein on the N1, Free State, South Africa . dedication and love for all things native to the Free

This Bloemfontein Guest house, Free State State, having built a legacy they want to share with you.

GPS: S 28"13'13.0 E 28"28'09.4

Accommodation, Game drives Restaurant & Bar, Swimming Pool, Conference & Wedding Facilities

T: +27 58 304 1691 1!]:!t[!] E: [email protected] ~~

www.lionsrock.org l!l~


Holhoek "One can only appreciate the

true beauty of this breathtaking land when seen through one's own eyes"

Come and enjoy the peace and seren ity of Holhoek Guest Farm which is situated some 18km near the picturesque small Eastern Free State town

of Paul Roux. It is appro ximately 310km from Johannesburg and 230 km from Bloemfontein . The town is situated next to the NS (the National Road between Durban and Bloemfontein - the Capital of the Free State), approxim ately 30 km from Senekal and 40 km from Bethl ehem . We like to ensure the comfort of all our guests . All accommodation is

self-catering with excellent faciliti es at your dispo sal. The farm offers self-catering thatch-roofed accommodation with beautiful views of the

surrounding mountains and a duck pond , hou sing 60 people at any given time. Our camp facilitie s are excellent -the kitc hen and braai area must rank among the best to be found on any hikin g trail, and the ablutions would do credit to any self-catering establi shment which house s clean neat bathrooms with 24 hour warm shower s. Make thi s your base, and explore our San rock art, game and also the beautiful town of Clarens which is only 60km away. THE TRAIL The beauty of the Eastern Free State come s to life as you walk our tra il. The farm has a very rich archaeological heritage and is therefore very special and unique . The two day figure of eight trail traverse s a variety of terrain s including mountain tops, sandstone krans , kloof s and valley s.

One ofth e trail s are 13km long and the second trail is 7km . The trail can be graded as moderate and suitable for all ages. Caution must just be taken on all bridges and ladders . The trail was designed and constructed by Tiaan Strydom of Discovery Trails. There are several ladder s and bridge s to cross along the way and the paths have been cut back to enable ease of walking . Trees in all shade s of green or touching autumn colour s, mounta in

stream s and ducks on the pond, will speak a languag e that no one else will und erst and . One of th e 5 caves th at are visit ed on th e rout e is located near a stream and is rich in Bushman rock painting s. The second

cave were inhabited at some stage by Iron Age farmers , probably Sothospeaking people. There are two huts, built against the back wall under th e low overhang of the roof , which are close on 200 years old . The next cave is close to the above and is semicircular with a spectacular waterfall

and pool at its center . On the second day the cave where the mothe r of old president PW Botha took shelter durin g the war is visited . The ruins

Length/Duration: Two 1 day trails of 13km and 7km. Two or more days or overnight. Degree of difficulty: Moderate

of severa l rectangular houses are sti ll visible above the fa rm house , on the route of the hiking trail and probab ly date to the fir st whit e settlement of the farm. Safe bridges built over mountain streams , breathtaking trails through

the valley s and ladder s up the moun tains will not only be an unfor gettable memory but an urgent call to com e back to Holho ek Hiking. A lot of thou ght and effort has gone into this tr ail. It is a trai l t hat will appeal to the many hikers who like the ease of walking on developed paths. The wheelchair friendly trail is something this count ry lags behind many countries in developing. Well don e to the owners and Tiaan Strydom for the foresight in developing such a tra il. Please Contact Sume on 0718155 892 or email holhoekguestfarm@gmail .com.

1, 2, 6: Waterfall caves on the farm , Holhoek. Photos by JP le Richie and Thia Landsberg.

3: Bushman rock paintin gs.

4,5: Large, clear, dinosaur footpr ints left on sandstone rock can be found on the farm , Uniondale.

FOUR PAWS Animal Welfare Foundation

fo:,·~ . V' FOUR PAWS is an international animal welfare ory a, u.:.ciCIOn with headquarters in Vienna, Austria. Founded by Heli Dungler in 1988, the organisation strives for improvements in animal welfare through sustainable campaigns and projects. The work is based on substantiated research and scientific expertise as well as intensive national and international lobbying. FOUR PAWS focuses on animals that are directly under human influence: stray dogs and stray cats, farm animals, wild animals and companion animals but also bears, big cats and orang-utans kept in inappropriate housing. With offices in Austria, Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, Germany, Hungary, Netherlands, Romania, South Africa, Switzerland, United Kingdom and USA FOUR PAWS aims to help animals in need directly and quickly. www.four-paws.org .za

Big Cat Sanctuary LIONSROCK, a project by FOUR PAWS,

provides an appropriate, lifelong home for big cats that were kept in

inadequate conditions in zoos, circuses or private captivity. The

habitat constructed for the big cats offers highest standards

including large areas for family groups, facilitation of natural behavior through enrichment and highest standards of medical

care as well as highest security standards of enclosures. In

LIONSROCK hunting, trading or breeding of big cats is strictly

prohibited. Big cats raised in captivity cannot be released into the

wild .

On arrival the animals are nursed back to health as many have

suffered the effects of years of neglect and abuse.

Undernourished, and with wounds both physical and mental they will never be able to return to a life "in the wild". At LIONSROCK we

provide them with an environment as close to complete freedom as

viable without endangering their lives.

Many fail to see the dark side of these industries as it is hidden

behind a veneer of caring and so called conservation. Pull back the veneer and what you find is a world filled with cages,

malnourishment and mistreatment. All in the name of entertainment and ultimately profit. Unfortunately, it is the cats

caught in this web that inevitable end up at the Four Paws big cat

sanctuary, LIONSROCK.This means specialized enclosures that

mixes the illusion of freedom with the natural habitat that these cats

are born to experience. We ask nothing of them, but to be themselves and grow old gracefully. The sanctuary has a strict

hands-off policy on both cubs and grown lions and our volunteers

are in place merely to ensure that the cats are fed and the

environment is clean and safe.

LIONSROCK is currently home to 109 big cats that is mostly made up out of lions with a sprinkling of tigers, leopards and cheetah. The

cats have been relocated to LIONSROCK from various locations

around the world, where they lived in varying degrees of squarely

whilst being utilized to benefit their owners.

LIONSROCK is funded by the donations of animal lovers from

around the world who support FOUR PAWS. In addition to the

donations, the lodge is an important source of income and all profits are directed to animal welfare at LIONSOCK.

I {)I' ... f ... ' ., () I \I A, ", •• 'II (l

The Hound & Rose Country House offers more that 10 rooms, spread throughout a beautiful

garden on the edge of Rosenda!. It is also available for functions, conferences ( conference

hall at entrance) and weddings (sandstone chapel on property). The restaurant and bar

both have stoeps with relaxing chairs and gorgeous views.

www.lionsrock.org FREE STATE TRAVEL AND LEISURE 25

Uniondale Game Farm is situated approximately 8km from Paul

Roux in the Eastern Free State.

This is a 1 OOO hectare farm surrounded by beautiful mountains.

Uniondale is well known for the historical dinosaur footprints on

the farm. About 185 million years ago dinosaurs roamed in this

area . A large l?l<?ck of Clarens Formation Sandstone cal.!..!m!.!S.·,1,M,1,iliali--.....:::.i

from a high cliff on the mountain and rolled down to lay on the ,

flat land below. This rock contains parts of the fossilised track

ways. We have developed tl;lis into a big tourist attraction with

various other dinosaur attractions, such as a museum and real • life dinosaur sculptures. The dinosaur museum is in

construction and professors from Wits University is going to

help with the outlay of the museum. Dinosaur sculptures are

being imported from China.

Uniondale also offers accommodation in the form of a lodge with

5 rooms and en suite bathrooms. The lodge also offers a

restaurant and conference facility. In the future Uniondale is

looking at more accommodation facilities such as chalets.

We also have a wide variety of wild life on Uniondale which

includes; zebras, giraffes, kudu, eland, blesbok, redhartbeest,

impala, wildebeest, buffalos and much more to come.

Horseback riding is also available on Uniondale. Game drives

will also be available.

Much more attractions will be available soon.

For those who love the quietness and the outdoor life, Uniondale

_ __ is the perfect option for that breakaway.

' r1 urve ART GALLERY & STUDIO 69 JJ Hadebestraat I Frankfort I 082 923 8199 I [email protected] Erika Turvey byeenvan hoar portrette.

Die dog toe Erika Turvey Frankfort toe moes trek, het sy gevoel hoar Jewe is verby. In Fouriesburg het sy aktief geskilder, uitstallings gehou en selfs 'n buitelandse mark vir hoar kuns gehad.

Moor Frankfort! Door goon niks aan nie, het sy gedink.

Passie het hoar egter uit die as loot opstaan en gedryf om 'n verskil te maak sodat Frankfort nie die dorpie sol wees wat almal verby ry op pad no 'n bestemming nie, moor dot Frankfort die bestemming sol wees.

'n Era van kuns en teater is in die dorp ingelui toe Erika Turvey Gallery and Studio met 'n groepultstalllng geopen het. 'n Restaurant en teater met bekende kok van die Karoo open binnekort.

Turvey stal tans meer 150 werke van 30 plaaslike kunstenaars uit, waarvan die meeste Turvey se groter as lewensgroot figuur-en portretskilderye is.

Haar werke, alles olie op doek, beskryf sy as "vol tekstuur, met baie emosie en 'n vreeslose gebruik van kleur". Turvey se die uitstallings sol elke maand verander sodat ander kunstenaars ook blootstelling kry. "Ek wil 'n verskil maak en gee reeds leiding aan 'n hele bende kuntenaars in die township. Door kom ongelooflike mooi werke uit hul geledere."

Turvey beplan ook pret-aande, soos om groot skllderdoeke buite om die galery op te stel en vir elkeen wat deelneem, 'n blik verf te gee en 'n opdrag wot om te skilder. "Elfuur sit ons die ligte of en don hou ons partytjie."

Turvey se kunslewe het aan die Pro Arte-skool in Pretoria begin. Na matriek het sy kuns aan die Universiteit van Pretoria gestudeer en toe sy met die idee om in kunsterapie te spesialiseer aan die Optimaskool vir blindes klas gegee het, het die ervaring bygedra tot die ontwikkeling van 'n eie styl.

"Die mense se stories het my aangegryp, veral die oor die laaste ding wat hulle gesien het voordot hulle blind geword het. Van toe of gebruik ek nie foto's, modelle of prente om van te skilder nie. My inspirasie kom uit oomblikke of gevoelens wat vir my uitstaan." Turvey se toe sy hoar esel en kwaste moes bere omdat hoar klnders slek geword het van die terpentyn (waarmee kwaste gewas word), het sy hoar op fotografie toegele. Make Believe Photography het sy hoar onderneming genoem, 'n naam wat vir hoar kliente 'n werklikheid was, moor sy aanvanklik moeilik kon glo. S6 gesog was sy vir geleentheidsfoto's, veral troues, dot sy oor die wereld heen agterkliente aan gereis het.

Na sewe jaar was sy sat van reis en wou sy net weer 'n normale lewe saam met hoar gesin he. Teen daardie tyd het hoar kinders die terpentyn-allergie ontgroei en toe sy hoar kwaste uithaal en weer begin skilder, het sy beset hoe sy dit gemis het. Sodanig dot sy meer wou doen as om kuns net vir hoar eie plesier te beoefen. Sy wou he almal wat belong stel, moet saam met hoar die wonder van visuele kuns ervaar. Dit is toe dot sy vir talentvolles in die township les begin gee het, die galery ingerig het en door binne ook vir hoar 'n werkplek.

Die huis op hul plaas (hoar man is 'n boer) het sy as 'n gastehuis ingerig. Nou is sy vry om hoar voile gewig agter die uitbou van Frankfort-as-bestemming in te gooi en met 'n kop vol idees 'n nuwe era tegemoet te goon.

Die Erika Turvey-galery is Saterdae oop en Sondae met afspraak. Die galery is ook beskikbaar vir funksies.

Artikel met vergunning van Volksblad.

Hiermee volg 'n paar van Erika Turvey se kunswerke.


ANDER PRODUKTE BESKIKBAAR BY DIE GALERY Varswater perels, krale, gerestoureerde antieke meubels, houtmeubels, beligting, houtkandelare,

leer handsakke & -belde, Nguni velle, en nog vele meer.

'!'!\~ \\ :.8:~~· FREE STATE TRAVEL AND LEISURE 29

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To get the most out of your footwear and to protect its life-cycle it is important to take a little time and effort to keep them in good condition.

Here are our top tips to maintain the life of your footwear:

After every walk or ramble it is recommended to give your footwear a clean. Try and dislodge most of the dirt by walking through wet grass or a puddle on your way home.

Then rinse the shoes or boots with clear water. Avoid submersing your footwear in water as it can alter the overall performance.

Brush

Condition

Once dry it is important to apply conditioning and waterproof treatments . Leather footwear needs conditioning to prevent splitting while all waterproof footwear requires you to reapply waterproofing agents. Application of proofer to the outer reduces the ability of moisture to penetrate the upper materials, especially those with mesh panels for improved breathability.

Remove laces and footbeds to get into the tight spaces and brush off mud and grime with a soft brush and Inside bowl of water. Depending on the frequency of use it is also a good idea

Dry

Never force dry your footwear with heat, this will result in the deterioration or hardening of the outer layer. Natural drying is best, try stuffing dry newspaper inside your footwear to soak up the moisture, frequently changing the wet newspaper for dry.

to give the inside of your boots an occasional clean. Salty sweaty deposits can actually damage leather and block the waterproof membranes reducing the overall breathability of your footwear. To clean the inside of your leather boots or shoes fill with luke warm water, leave them overnight before tipping water away and leaving to dry naturally.


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Free StateTrave and Leisure Magazine , a luxury, leisure, culture, travel and business regional magazine. It seeks to share, invigorate and inspire readers through a host of fresh, charming informative, entertaining articles, advertorials and stories.

In conjunction with I Love Free State, we are proud to publish this unique magazine. First edition also Distributed at the Durban lndaba -Africa's Top Travel Show.

The area's cutting edge new first edition of Free State Travel and Leisure Magazine will be published online May 2016. Next Edition September 2016.

It's a provincial and regional community tourism and business magazine. Print and online. Marketing and promoting the Free State five regions. The full-color, gloss magazine covers the communities, events and attractions in this region. Marketed under the slogan,"/ love Free State". The magazine is the reader's passport to affordable destinations.

Articles are entertaining, is packed with beautiful photography and stories about interesting places to visit in this area.

What's different about the magazine is that it's designed to have a consistent look, excellent quality of the paper and high image resolution. One of the advantages of this magazine, is that it has a much longer shelf life than other publications, online and on Facebook.

Designed to showcase the very best of the Free State from the advertisements to the business listings and editorial, the design flows well. The reader will be introduced to the area through the advertising and editorial mix of excellent photography, various articles related to tourism, community, culture, where to stay, food, festivals, outdoor adventure education, arts, entertainment, business profiles and more.

Distribution points might differ in every area. Magazine available online and facebook.

Tourism offices, municipalities, at all advertisers, distribution points identified by tourism buro's, lodge's, guesthouses, restaurants, doctors and hospitals in area, also distributed at events and festivals. It differ in different towns in the area.

A digital version is also available. Links shared on I Love Free State and other applicable fb pages. We trust that you are as exited as we are about this excellent opportunity and we are looking forward to the first publication.

The magazine creates the environment that delivers a reader in the right frame of mind to be receptive to the advertiser. Advertising is seen as an integral part of this magazines . Advertising is valued by readers because advertisements are relevant and add value. Ad clutter is not a problem in this magazine .

Please contact Suzette Annandale at [email protected] or 083 44 7 4535 to place your advert in the amazing magazine.

MATERIAL SIZE COST SPECIFICATIONS (hxw)

FULL PAGE R 6125

1/2 PAGE R 3375

1/4 PAGE R 1750

1/8 PAGE R 875

1/6 PAGE R 1160

INSIDE FRONT R 8574

INSIDE BACK R 8574

BACKPAGE R 9850

251.5 mm(high) x 200 mm

123 mm x 200 mm

123 mm x 97 mm

77 mm x97 mm

59 mm x97 mm

251.5 mm x 200 mm

251.5 mm x 200 mm

251.5 mm x 200 mm

/)ot..' ~ IWJJ 1-hir ~

oppomuJJ'1 !

Suzette Annandale 083 447 4535 I [email protected] Iwww.sandvelder.com FREE STATE TRAVEL AND LEISURE 31

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ENJOY THE VERY BEST ONLY AT 71 JJ HADEBE STREET, FRANKFORT * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Contact us at 058 813 4058 I kopikof [email protected] ! Graph i c Design @ redfoxdes i gns.weebly.com

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"Forgetting your past is forever remaining ignorant" Aristotle

With its rich history, its breath-taking landscapes and its melting pot of cultures, the Free State is more than just a geographical heartland at the centre of South Africa. It's also a place where the South African gees or spirit shines brightly and where history comes in alive in its people and its places.

Experience this world with the Big 5 ... five unique routes that bring together all the sights, attractions and history of the unforgettable Free State province. As you journey through space and time, you'll do more than take pictures; you'll reconnect with where you came from and who you are.

Discover the true meaning of heritage

Follow the heritage trail through five fascinating regions using the Big 5 sub-routes:

The Cheetah Route '• See where the ANG was founded in 1912 and

follow the ANG Liberation Route through the Waaihoek Wesleyan Church, Maphikela House and Dikgareteneng.

• Visit the natural wonder of Naval Hill inBloemforntein and see the Nelson Mandelastatue, two historic British naval guns, thefamous white horse sculpture, a Planetariumand a game reserve.

• The grandiose sandstone buildings which linePresident Brand Street are a boardwalk

of history - from the 1909 Supreme Court Building to the modern-day "glass palace" of the Bram Fisher Building.

The Eagle Route • Kgalong la Mantsopa (Mantsopa's grave) is near

Modderpoort, where the young prophetess AnnaMantsopa Makhetha fled after being banishedby her brother, King Moshoeshoe. Mantsopa setup home in a sandstone cave in which she lateraccommodated a group of Anglican missionarieswho in time turned the cave into a chapel.

• The Motouleng Caves (or Fertility Caves) arelocated 18km from Clarens. For centuriessangomas (African spiritualists) have conductedritual ceremonies and offered sacrifices here,and some have lived there for years.

• The Basotho Cultural Village is a window ontraditional Sotho life, from the 16th century tothe present. Visitors can also see rock-art andindigenous medicinal plants nearby.

• South Africa's smallest church, the LlandafOratory, is an 8-seat Roman Catholic churchbuilt in memory of a young miner who diedrescuing 8 co-workers in a mining accidentin 1925.

• Surrender Hill, near Fouriesburg, is a monumentto soldiers who died in the Anglo-Boer War. It islocated on the spot where 4000 Boer guerrillassurrendered and were sent to India as prisoners.

The Lion Route • Vredefort Dome is the oldest and largest crater on

earth. The 300km-wide crater was the result of ameteorite striking the earth some 2000 millionyears ago. In addition to the world's only pinkgranite, it contains a wealth of bird and plant lifein its rugged ring of mountains.

The Springbok Route • The Laurens van der Post Memorial Centre and

labyrinth at Philippolis pay tribute to Sir Laurensvan der Post, a renowned author, political advisor,philanthropist and conservationist.

• The Emily Hobhouse Memorial commemorates anEnglish woman who strove to improve theconditions in the Anglo-Boer War concentrationcamps.

The Flamingo Route • The township of Majwemasweu, in Brandfort, is

where Nelson Mandela's ex-wife, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, spent nine years under house arrest for terrorism.

• The Florisbad archaeological site at Soutpanhouses the skull of a 260,000 year-old hominidand other fossils - as well as graves dating backto the concentration camps of the Anglo-Boer war.

www.freestatetourism.org i lovefreestate ID

Documents

Free State Travel & Leisure - Volume 1