Founded in 1846, Bloemfontein is the birthplace of J.R.R. Tolkien, author of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. A compact city surrounded by suburbs, much of Bloemfontein's activity is focused upon its waterfront, and it features a variety of accommodation that offers guests easy access to the business district, shopping malls, and attractions such as Bloemfontein Zoo.
Top Things in Bloemfontein
The Oliewenhuis Art Gallery is housed in a neo-Cape Dutch manor house, surrounded by generous lawns. See the art, roam the grounds, and enjoy refreshments in the tea garden and restaurant.
The Naval Hill and Franklin Nature Reserve offers spectacular views from Naval Hill, while the plains teem with free-roaming wildlife - giraffe, buffalo, ostrich, and spring buck. A theatre is located inside the reserve at the Lamont Hussey Observatory.
For families, the Windmill Casino and Entertainment Centre features seven restaurants, bowling, Diamond Lil's, Sweets from Heaven, and Marche Rouge.
Game Reserves in Bloemfontein
One of the key attractions of the city is the game reserves. While some reserves are designed simply for sightseeing, others allow hunting. The Soetdoring Nature Reserve is a Free State reserve located just outside of Bloemfontein. The unique feature of this location is the fact that there are lions living in a small enclosure in the middle of the reserve. The rest of the reserve features non-dangerous animals and offers a one-day hiking trail that is suitable for families with younger children.
Bloemfontein Accommodation
Along with mid-range and high-end hotels, there are also cheap hotels in Bloemfontein available for budget travellers. Offerings include lodges, guesthouses, spas, and luxury hotels. Hotels are located near the waterfront place tourists within walking distance of a variety of activities, including shopping malls and the main strip of restaurants, which is located on 2nd Street.