Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa

Bloemfontein is the capital city of the province of the Free State. It is a charming, medium sized city, living up to its name of 'spring of flowers'. Thousands of pretty rose bushes line the streets, creating an amazing spectacle most of the year, especially in the spring time. Nearby is the orchid house, another tribute to that beautiful name.

Bloemfontein was originally inhabited by the Stone-Age people and later by the Basotho. It was named Mangaung, which means 'Place of Leopards'. Bloemfontein is the capital of what was then the Orange Free State until the Union of South Africa was declared in 1910. It was then made the judicial capital of South Africa and is the site of the Supreme Court of Appeal.

A small nature reserve called Naval Hill offers lovely walks and the opportunity to see small game. There are also a number of wonderful little museums dedicated to subjects ranging from natural history to warfare. The most poignant memorial is that of the Women's Monument, erected to commemorate the thousands of women and children who died in British concentration camps during the Anglo-Boer War.

Bloemfontein also offers wonderful recreational, shopping and entertainment facilities. A number of quaint and vibrant shopping centres are available in the city. Another worthwhile visit would be to the Bloemfontein Botanical Gardens, the only botanical gardens in the Free State. It features 6 hectares of delightful walks and trails, a bird hide, nursery and tea garden.

Bloemfontein is a great stopover point for journeys between Cape Town and Johannesburg and is the closest city to the Kingdom of Lesotho.