Places to Stay in Ficksburg, Free State, South Africa

Geography

Lying at the foot of the Mpharane Mountain on the banks of the Caledon River, Ficksburg is one of the major tourist points for visitors to the eastern Free State. The town is situated about 340km from Johannesburg, making it a relatively easy journey to get to the attractions of this charming town.

History

Originally established as a 'strong point' of the Free State Republic in the 'conquered land' taken from the Basotho in the war of 1867, Ficksburg had always been plagued by internal bickering between the indigenous tribes of the Caledon Valley and the white settlers. Early settlers were told to keep gunpowder, a rifle and 200 rounds of ammunition handy for immediate use and were ordered to have their homesteads built within six months. The remains of some of these strong walls built to withstand an impending attack can still be seen today.

Arts and Culture

Up in the hills of the Maluti Mountain are numerous caves with lovely examples of San rock art, and sites of more modern culture include a memorial to Commandant-General Fick built in 1895 as well as the local museum with exhibits mainly about cherry farming and Fick himself. The jail near the Dutch Reformed Church is where the first president of South Africa, CR Swart, was held for treason, and is now a historical monument. In town there are numerous arts and crafts that can be viewed and bought including weaves, cherry products and sandstone products.

Science

Ficksburg is an important agricultural centre and has the largest asparagus crops in South Africa. The delicate spears are sent to the local canning factory the moment they are snipped. The area is also the most important cherry farming centre in the country and in spring the whole town is awash with fragrant white cherry blossoms.

Entertainment

Ficksburg is best known today for its annual Cherry Festival, which takes place in the second week in November, helping to promote the town and its attractions. The festival features a marathon, floats, stalls, a "Cherry Queen" competition, a beer festival and a Cherry and Asparagus Tour. Other notable festivals are the annual music festivals held at Rustler's Valley. These New-Age festivals over Easter and New Year bring together ravers, hippies and rockers to enjoy the holistic, family-friendly and relaxed atmosphere with drumming circles, live bands and DJs. Other than the festivals visitors can enjoy a meal in one of the restaurants in town or go cruising on the Meulspruit Dam at the weekend.

Did You Know

The Old Mill in Gumtree is the highest sandstone building in South Africa.