Goldfields (Lejweleputswa District)

Includes: Allanridge, Boshof, Bothaville, Brandfort, Bultfontein, Dealesville, Hennenman, Hertzogville, Hoopstad, Odendaalsrus, Theunissen, Ventersburg, Virginia, Welkom, Wesselsbron, Winburg.  

As its name suggests, this is the heart of South Africa's agricultural fields, and also where you'll find some of the richest and deepest gold mines in the world.

Endless mielie (maize/corn) fields, Free State

Gold was discovered here near Vredefort in 1948 and today, these mines are on par with those of Gauteng in terms of richness and depth. 

Welkom is the region's 'capital' and is known for its numerous traffic circles and city centre in the shape of a horse-shoe.  Apparently the whole city was pre-planned and laid out by Anglo American before the first foundations were dug. It is a pleasure to drive through.

Bothaville is the centre of one the richest agricultural communities.  Each May it hosts the NAMPO Harvest Festival (2nd largest private agri show in the world) and every July the Food & Witblits (Moonshine) Festival.

Top 10 Attractions:

• Aldam Holiday Resort & Willem Pretorius Game Reserve
• Voortrekker Monument, Winburg
• Gold Museum - Welkom Library
• Underground Mine Tours
• Phakisa Motorsports Race Track
• Soetdoring Game & Nature Reserve (near Bultfontein)
• Annual Boshof Game Auction & Festival (May)                                                            Mining Head Gear at Sunset
  
• Goldfields Casino, Welkom
• Winne Mandela Museum & Lodge, Brandfort
• Soutpan's salt pans

For more info, visit Explore Free State