South African Bloemfontein (Blumfontein) is the legal capital of the Republic of South Africa , the administrative center of the grain-producing province - Free State, previously known as an independent state of the Orange Republic. According to the legend, the city (thanks to the farmer who moved to South Africa during the Anglo-Boer conflict) received his name ("flower fountain"). The territory of the farm, carpeted with wild flowers, grew into a settlement, which later became the largest city and the capital of the Orange Republic.
Where is?
Bloemfontein is located in the heart of South Africa . It is located on the border of the semi-arid arid region of Karu and the steppe plateau of High Veld, rising above sea level to a height of 2000 meters. Bloemfontein is not exactly a resort town, it is located far from the ocean. But this fact does not detract from its attractiveness for tourists. The city is a major transport hub, so visiting Bloemfontein can easily be combined with a trip to other major cities in South Africa.
Climate and weather in Bloemfontein
Bloemfontein is in a semi-arid climatic zone, the coldest time of the year in South Africa is the European summer. From June to August, the average daily air temperature is + 10 ° C, at night the thermometer's column drops to -3 ° C. Once in a few years at this time of year, snow falls in the city. The summer here lasts from October to March, the average temperature is +24 ° C, but in December and January it often rises above + 30 ° C.
sights
Start acquaintance with the city is best from the viewing platform of the Hill of the Nether Hill. Here is the nature reserve Franklin Game Reserve. Another unique place where you can discover the world of African nature is the famous Bloemfontein Zoo. The true connoisseurs of the flora are suitable for visiting the Royal Rose Park, the National Botanical Garden, the House of Orchids and the nearby Garden of fragrances for the blind.
Of historical monuments worth noting the National Women's Memorial, numerous museums: the Military Museum of the Royal Fort, Old Presidency, the Museum of the Anglo-Boer War, weapons and even wagons. The places to be visited are the Supreme Court of Appeal, the Dutch Twin-spire Church and the Presidential Cemetery.
| | |
| | |
Where to stay in Bloemfontein?
To the services of tourists and travelers in Bloemfontein there is a wide choice of hotels of the most different price category. Lovers of a beautiful and comfortable stay await a modern hotel with magnificent Anta Boga service and a retro-styled boutique hotel City Living. Those who are accustomed to luxury rest, will not disappoint the five-star guest house Dersley Manor. A large selection of economy-class hotels and guest houses is offered to the attention of non-spoiled tourists in Bloemfontein. Hobbit Boutique Hotel cordially opens its doors to admirers of Tolkien's creativity, as it was here that the famous writer was born, and the entourage of the hotel is dedicated to his life and creativity.
Where to eat?
As in many other cities of South Africa with a developed tourist infrastructure, local food establishments are mainly focused on visiting guests. Here you can visit Italian restaurants, for example, the fashionable Avanti Italian Restaurant, the Longhorn Grill Steakhouse and the themed The New York. You can listen to jazz improvisations and at the same time you can eat at the famous Jazz Time Café restaurant. Hotel staff often recommend visiting Margaritas Sea Food & Steaks - a fairly popular restaurant with a high level of service and low prices, equally loved by the local and guests of the city.
Shopping, souvenirs
Despite the fact that Bloemfontein is one of the cleanest and best-kept cities in South Africa , together with oases of purity, noisy squares and bazaars harmoniously coexist here. One of them is Boeremark - a farmer's market or a market of crafts, attracting tourists with fragrances, lively bustle and a unique atmosphere of the city. Here you will be offered homemade dried fruits and jam, as well as fresh products brought from numerous nearby farms. As a souvenir, you can take something from the handicraft stalls. The market operates on Saturdays from 6:00 to 14:00 at Bankovs Boulevard, Langenhovenpark.
Cultural shopping awaits you in the huge shopping center Mimosa Mall. It presents the products of famous brands and often practice discounts.