Often referred to as the “Free State wonder”, the Golden Gate Highlands National Park is a scenic drive away from the cities of Johannesburg, Durban, and Bloemfontein, making it the perfect place for weekend getaways. The park boasts some of the most incredible scenery to be seen in South Africa, with the highlight being the sandstone cliffs that light up with the rays of the sun, emitting hues of orange and golden yellow.
But the scenery is not all that makes the Golden Gate Highlands National Park special. There is a rich diversity of fauna and flora, offering up-close encounters with black wildebeest, blesbok, springbok, Black-backed jackal, Burchell’s zebra, and various birds, including the rare bearded vulture and the bald ibis who breed on the sandstone cliffs. With no predators lurking in the bushes, the park is popular amongst families with young children.
To make the most of your stay in the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, it is important to consider where you will stay and what experiences are on offer.
Golden Gate Hotel & Chalets is a modern establishment with 54 luxurious rooms and state of the art facilities. It is a great option for travellers seeking a little extra comfort.
Glen Reenen Rest Camp nestles close by and offers campsites, rondavels, and guest cottages; perfect for nature lovers and families seeking an adventure.
Highlands Mountain Retreat is a firm favourite in this region because it only has eight log cabins and sits at the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, boasting the most incredible views. It is a great choice for couples and honeymooners looking for a romantic getaway.
The Basotho Cultural Village offers a completely different experience with luxurious rondavels that resemble an 18th century village. It is a great choice for travellers looking to experience the local heritage.
Noordt Braaben is positioned approximately six kilometers from Glen Reenen Rest Camp and is a quaint rustic farmhouse that sleeps upto six people. The farmhouse is equipped with two bathrooms, a kitchen, lounge and a dining room with a fireplace. It is perfect for families or friends looking for a more private space to enjoy.
Making the most of your visit to Golden Gate Highlands Park means exploring the region extensively and trying new experiences. One should try and do as many activities as possible to truly appreciate the beauty of the park. Activities include white-river rafting, hiking, game drives, abseiling, canoeing, nature walks, horse riding, swimming, golf, shooting, arts and crafts, quad and Motorbike trails, zip lining, paintball shooting, archery, fly fishing, game farms, rock art, trip to Lesotho, Katse Dam, snowboarding, and skiing.
