Headline

Bethlehem is an important farming and commercial town that lies on the Jordaan River in South Africa’s Free State Province. It is famous for its wheat production and Bethlehem is actually Hebrew for “Place of bread”. It is also famous for its wool production and cattle farming. Bethlehem was founded by the Voortrekkers in the 1840’s and still has a number of historical sandstone buildings which were built then. Many of these sandstone buildings are provincial heritage sites. The town is close to a cairn of rocks that is very significant to the people of Lesotho. On their way to work at the Witwatersrand gold mines, the workers would drop a stone on the pile, entreating their ancestors for protection on their journey. On the way back home to Lesotho they would drop another stone on the pile to thank their ancestors for a safe journey.

The town’s setting is idyllic with a beautiful picture postcard view of the Maloti Mountains and stunning Free State countryside. Close by is the Pretoriuskloof Nature Reserve on the banks of the Jordaan River, so it is an ideal location if you are an avid flora and flora fan. The town also plays host to soccer games at the local Gobal Park. For History Buffs, you will enjoy the many museums which detail the town’s history. For example at the Baartman House, there are exhibits of wagons, horse carriages, period furniture and farming tools, which will give you a real insight into the town’s farming history. The town also has a number of restaurants and pubs to keep you refreshed whilst taking in the sights and attractions. Bethlehem also makes a great stop-over to those visiting the Golden Gate National Park and the Drakensburg Mountains.

The accommodation on offer in the town ranges from quant guest houses and B&B’s to exquisite Country Estates.

Photograph thanks to Philip Rickerby