Discover Xhariep: Landscapes, Culture and History

Gariep Dam lies at the southern tip of the Xhariep District Municipality; the N1 national road runs through the area. If you are planning a stay in Xhariep, you can tailor your choices to your specific interests: landscapes and nature, local history or an event in Fauresmith. The towns offer different starting points, from a 4x4 route past rock formations to museums and an endurance horse race held every July.

Landscapes and nature areas

The Xhariep District Municipality has water resources along the Orange River. When the dam is full, Gariep Nature Reserve covers 13,500 ha. Tussen Die Riviere Nature Reserve is near Bethulie in the Xhariep District Municipality; a 4x4 route there passes the unusual rock formations of the Klipstapels.

Things to see in Koffiefontein

Large outdoor paintings of Victor Emanuele and Benito Mussolini in Koffiefontein were left by internees during the Second World War. The Coffee Pot Fountain symbolically welcomes visitors by “pouring” them a cup of coffee. The Bird Park is home to native and imported bird species. Check which facilities are currently available before your visit. The Open-air Museum is at the entrance to the town. Together, these attractions offer a glimpse of birdlife, local memory and a distinctive welcome sign.

Jagersfontein’s mining and local history

The Open Mine Museum provides an overview of the town’s origins and mining history. The municipal tourism information describes Jagersfontein as the world’s oldest diamond-mining town. Adam Kok House, also known as Griqua House, was once the home of Griqua leader Adam Kok. On Voortrekker Street, the TransXhariep Museum presents the history of the town and its people. The historical themes thus span mining and the town’s origins, Adam Kok’s former home and the history of the local population.

Bethulie and Fauresmith

Near Bethulie is the D. H. Steyn Bridge, a beautiful sandstone bridge measuring 1.2 km in length. It is the country’s longest road and railway bridge. Less than 20 km from Bethulie, San rock art attests to the early presence of the San in this area. The International Horse Endurance Race takes place every July in Fauresmith. The Gariep fish hatchery breeds yellowfish, carp and catfish.

When planning your trip, consider the different factors: if you are attending the International Horse Endurance Race, check the current dates; before setting off, check the condition of the 4x4 route. Your preferred cultural or landscape interests can help guide your choice of accommodation. In the wider travel destination of Free State, Golden Gate Highlands National Park offers hiking, horse riding and cave exploration. The Vredefort Dome in Free State is the oldest and largest known meteorite impact structure on Earth.

Discover more destinations: Bethel, Gariepdam, Rietrivier, Jacobsdal, Philippolis, Petrusburg, Smithfield, Springfontein, Bethulie, Koffiefontein, Rouxville.

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