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Top reasons to visit Free State

• Stunning Scenic Trails: Free State boasts breathtaking hiking trails, ideal for nature enthusiasts looking to explore the outdoors.
• Artistic Towns: Experience the vibrant artistic vibe of towns like Clarens, filled with galleries and local crafts.
• Historical Significance: Discover the rich history of Bloemfontein, the capital, with its historic churches and cultural landmarks.
• Sporting Venues: Visit the Free State Stadium, a hub for sports enthusiasts, offering thrilling events.
• Relaxing Accommodations: Enjoy diverse accommodation options, from charming guesthouses to comfortable hotels, catering to all travellers.

Find great hotels in Free State

Explore a variety of accommodation options in Free State, South Africa, where you can find charming guesthouses and comfortable hotels tailored for both business travellers and adventure seekers. With pet-friendly options and essential amenities, Free State offers the perfect setting for a memorable getaway. Whether you're looking to book the best hotels or find unique local stays, you'll discover an array of inviting places to rest during your visit.

• Protea Hotel by Marriott Clarens: Nestled in the scenic Free State, the Protea Hotel by Marriott Clarens is a 4-star haven for families and adventure seekers alike. With a distinctive theme centred around outdoor adventures, this hotel offers thrilling activities such as archery on-site and horse riding, rafting, hiking, and kayaking in nearby locations. Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities, including babysitting services and complimentary cribs, ensuring a comfortable stay for all ages. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors or simply relax, this hotel is the perfect base for a memorable adventure vacation.
• Kiara Lodge: Combining family fun with relaxation, Kiara Lodge is a 3-star retreat that offers an invigorating spa-themed experience. Set in the heart of Free State, guests can indulge in activities such as cave exploring and rock climbing, as well as fishing in nearby locations. The lodge features a full-service spa, indoor pool, and various amenities for children, including mini-golf and an arcade game room. This lodge is ideal for families seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an excellent choice for a revitalising getaway.
• Villa Bali Luxury Guest House: Experience boutique luxury at the Villa Bali Luxury Guest House, a 4-star accommodation that boasts uniquely designed decor and artistic influences. This charming guest house is perfect for those seeking a more personalised and intimate stay in Free State. Guests rave about the exquisite attention to detail in both the design and service, making it a serene retreat for couples or individuals looking for a distinctive getaway. The elegant atmosphere and thoughtful touches ensure a memorable experience, setting the stage for relaxation and indulgence.

Where to stay in Free State

Free State, South Africa, offers an enchanting blend of city charm and outdoor adventure, perfect for a romantic getaway or a relaxing retreat. Discover the scenic beauty of towns like Clarens, known for its artistic vibe, or the historical richness of Bloemfontein, the province's capital. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and explore secluded spots that promise recreation and tranquility, making Free State an ideal destination for travellers seeking both excitement and relaxation.

• Bloemfontein: As the capital city of the Free State, Bloemfontein boasts a rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Known for its educational institutions, such as historic universities, the city offers a vibrant atmosphere with a mix of urban attractions. Visitors can explore various shopping centres and enjoy events at local conference venues. The climate is relatively stable throughout the year, with peak visitor numbers in January, April, and September, making it an appealing destination for those seeking romantic, cultural, or city-themed experiences.
• Clarens: Nestled in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, Clarens is a charming town renowned for its outdoor adventures and artistic community. Peak travel times in April and from June to July highlight its popularity among adventure seekers. The area is perfect for skiing and exploring recreational activities, with its picturesque landscapes attracting nature lovers. Visitors can also enjoy the local art galleries and quaint shops, adding a unique touch to their stay in this vibrant town.
• Golden Gate Highlands National Park: This stunning national park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and eco-friendly travellers. Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, the park features mountains and nature reserves that provide ample opportunities for exploration. The peak seasons in April, July, and September attract visitors eager for adventure and relaxation in a natural setting. With recreational areas, golf courses, and private country clubs, Golden Gate Highlands National Park offers a perfect blend of leisure and thrill amidst its stunning landscapes.

Things to do in Free State

Free State offers a delightful blend of city-themed, romantic, and outdoor vacations. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, indulge in art galleries, and enjoy various outdoor adventures. The region is perfect for those seeking relaxation at resorts, thrilling camping sites, and vibrant shopping experiences, making it an ideal destination for both nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Shopping

Experience shopping in Free State at Mimosa Mall, a vibrant hub offering entertainment and family-friendly vibes. Visit Mega World for a mix of business and family atmosphere. Don't miss Goldfields Mall, where you can enjoy a lively shopping experience with a variety of shops and amenities.

Recreation

At DP de Villiers Stadium, immerse yourself in a vibrant sports atmosphere, perfect for invigorating workouts. Enjoy a round of golf at Harrismith Country Club, where the outdoor setting enhances relaxation. For tranquility, visit Pikkie Park, a serene space ideal for unwinding amidst nature.

Adventure

Embark on the Clarens Kloof Mountain Trail for an exhilarating hiking experience amidst stunning scenery. This trail offers outdoor adventure vibes, perfect for those seeking to connect with nature while enjoying breathtaking views of the Free State landscape.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Free State offers a delightful blend of culture and entertainment. Enjoy a romantic evening at the Ernest Oppenheimer Theatre, where captivating performances await. Alternatively, catch the latest films at Ster-Kinekor Mimosa, perfect for family outings or a cosy date night.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Free State

To save money during your visit to Free State, plan your trip between August to September or November when prices are lower. Opt for midweek stays, especially on Wednesdays, to avoid higher Saturday rates. Use Expedia’s search tool to find eco-certified accommodations and arrange prices from lowest to highest for the best deals. Consider packaging your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Also, explore free activities and utilise public transport, which can be a cost-effective way to navigate the area.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Free State are August to September and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Free State is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Free State is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservations in the Free State with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Free State

Free State offers a delightful mix of urban and outdoor experiences, perfect for a romantic getaway or family vacation. Visitors can explore scenic dams, historic churches, and vibrant urban parks. Key attractions include the Free State Stadium, which is ideal for sports enthusiasts. This region beautifully caters to travellers seeking cultural immersion and outdoor adventures, ensuring a memorable trip filled with diverse activities.

• Gariep Dam: Experience the tranquillity of Gariep Dam, which offers breathtaking scenery and opportunities for water sports, fishing, and birdwatching. The expansive views of the dam and its surrounding landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and photography.
• University of the Free State: Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history at the University of the Free State. This esteemed institution showcases stunning architecture and vibrant art, making it a hub for education and cultural exchange.
• Supreme Court of Appeal: Visit the Supreme Court of Appeal, a significant landmark that represents the judicial authority of South Africa. This historic building offers insight into the legal system and showcases impressive architectural design.

Best time to go to Free State

The best time to visit Free State is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. November is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain. June is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	66.7°F (19.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	57.7°F (14.3°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	52.7°F (11.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	46.6°F (8.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
July	48.9°F (9.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	51.8°F (11.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	59.5°F (15.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
October	68.0°F (20.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	65.8°F (18.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Free State

When planning your visit to Free State, South Africa, you can fly into three main airports. Bloemfontein Airport (BFN) is the closest, located 8.0km away, with nearby hotels such as Villa Bali Luxury Guest House and Bayswater Lodge, offering various transport services. Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) is 386.2km away, featuring luxury hotels like the InterContinental Johannesburg and Davinci Hotel, providing 24-hour shuttle services. Kimberley Airport (KIM) is another option, situated 144.8km from Free State, with hotels like Protea Hotel by Marriott and Kimberley Anne Small Luxury Hotel, both offering limited shuttle services to the airport.