#TourismForAll: What to expect when planning a Free State roadtrip

#TourismForAll

#TourismForAll

Published Aug 25, 2016

Share

If you are planning a visit to the Free State around this time of the year, make sure you pack warmly as it can get really cold.

This, I wish someone had told me before I arrived in Deneysville for my four day Sho't Left trip. I spent my first night at the Prive Holiday Resort near the Vaal River, where the temperature dipped to a low four degrees in the afternoon.

 Next stop was the adventure town of Parys. Named after the capital city of France Paris, the small town is known for its adrenaline pumping activities.

What you may not be aware of is that nearby there is an even smaller town called Vredefort that is known world wide and listed in The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as an important cultural and heritage site.

 

At the Vredefort Dome. Very close to where a massive rock from outer space collided with the earth 2023 million years ago. 🤗 #TourismForAll #ShotLeft #MeetSouthAfrica

A photo posted by Nontando [Sunrise] Mposo (@nontando58) on Aug 23, 2016 at 4:18am PDT

Our tour guide Jan Fourie told us that in between the town of Vredefort and Parys is where a massive rock from outer space collided with the earth 2023 million years ago. Resulting in what is now called the Vredefort Dome. The impact played a huge part in forming a part of the South African Golden Arch, a land rich in gold.

 

Back in Parys, I did Quad Biking for the first time. Driving through a rough and bumpy terrain, this was a fun group activity. As long as you keep your eyes and focus on the trail as there are trees and big rocks along the way.

While my colleague was brave enough to try abseiling, I gave it a pass and played archery instead.

Photo Credit: Paballo Thekiso

The two towns, Parys and Vredefort are neighbours yet offer different experiences. One is rich in heritage while the latter is a draw card for young people looking for a adventure on a budget. Both are worth exploring.

Visit Sho't Left  for more information.

Related Topics: