Hotels in Free State

Top reasons to visit Free State

• Scenic Landscapes: The Free State boasts breathtaking natural beauty, perfect for hiking and picnics amidst stunning vistas.
• Cultural Exploration: Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture by exploring charming towns like Clarens and Bloemfontein.
• Diverse Accommodation: A range of lodging options, from boutique hotels to guesthouses, cater to all types of travellers.
• Outdoor Activities: Enjoy various outdoor pursuits, including nature reserves and family-friendly attractions.
• Vibrant Arts Scene: Discover local art galleries and cultural sites that reflect the region's rich heritage.

Find great hotels in Free State

Discover the diverse hotel accommodation options in the Free State, perfect for every type of traveller. Whether you seek a charming guesthouse or a modern hotel, this region offers a range of facilities, including business amenities and pet-friendly options. Experience adventure-filled vacations or enjoy the tranquillity of boutique hotels, all while being surrounded by the stunning landscapes of South Africa's Free State.

• Protea Hotel by Marriott Bloemfontein Willow Lake: Nestled in the heart of Bloemfontein, the 4-star Protea Hotel by Marriott Bloemfontein Willow Lake offers a refined city-themed experience ideal for business travellers. With a commendable guest rating of 8.6, this hotel features modern amenities, including spacious conference facilities, an on-site restaurant serving delectable local cuisine, and a tranquil outdoor pool. The stylishly appointed rooms provide a comfortable retreat, ensuring guests can relax after a busy day in the city centre.
• City Lodge Hotel Bloemfontein: This 3-star hotel stands out with its excellent guest rating of 8.8, making it a popular choice for business travel. Conveniently situated in Free State, City Lodge Hotel Bloemfontein boasts well-equipped rooms designed for comfort and productivity. Facilities include a restaurant offering a hearty breakfast, a fitness centre for those looking to maintain their workout routine, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property. The hotel's welcoming atmosphere and professional service create an environment conducive to both relaxation and business activities.
• Premier Splendid Inn Bloemfontein: Offering a blend of comfort and convenience, the 3.5-star Premier Splendid Inn Bloemfontein features a guest rating of 8.2. This hotel is strategically located in the city centre, making it ideal for business travellers seeking easy access to local attractions and services. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a restaurant, outdoor pool, and well-appointed rooms tailored for relaxation. The friendly staff are committed to ensuring a pleasant stay, making it a solid option for those visiting Bloemfontein.

Where to stay in Free State

The Free State province offers an enchanting blend of romantic escapes and vibrant city experiences. Here, you can explore charming towns like Clarens, nestled in the scenic Maluti Mountains, or the historical allure of Bloemfontein. Enjoy tranquil getaways amid breathtaking landscapes, friendly locals, and a relaxed atmosphere. With a variety of attractions, from nature reserves to cultural sites, your stay in Free State promises to be both rejuvenating and memorable.

• Bloemfontein: As the capital of the Free State province, Bloemfontein is steeped in history and culture. Known as the City of Roses, it boasts a pleasant climate and an array of attractions. The city is home to significant landmarks like the historic college university and the modern college university, making it an educational hub. Visitors can explore the historic civic government building and enjoy shopping at local centres. Bloemfontein's cultural theme attracts travellers throughout the year, with peak visits in January, April, and September, ensuring a vibrant urban experience brimming with activities.
• Clarens: Nestled in the picturesque Maluti Mountains, Clarens is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With its stunning mountain scenery, this charming town offers a range of activities, including golf at private clubs and outdoor sports. Clarens is especially popular from April to July, drawing visitors seeking an adrenaline rush amidst nature. The nearby nature reserves and parks provide ample opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in the breathtaking South African landscape.
• Bethlehem: Situated in the heart of the Free State, Bethlehem is ideal for sports lovers and adventurers alike. The city is known for its ski fields and golf courses, attracting visitors who seek thrill and excitement. With its modern civic government building and town hall, Bethlehem combines urban amenities with a welcoming atmosphere. The peak travel periods in March, April, and September highlight its appeal as a dynamic destination for those seeking both adventure and leisure in a charming setting.

Things to do in Free State

Shopping

In Free State, visit the vibrant Bloemfontein Mall, offering a mix of shops and eateries. For a local experience, check out the Oliewenhuis Art Museum's market, where you can find unique handcrafted souvenirs and gifts that reflect the region's culture.

Recreation

The Drakensberg Sun Resort offers a tranquil atmosphere with stunning mountain views, wellness treatments, and outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. Enjoy yoga sessions and spa therapies to rejuvenate your spirit while immersing yourself in nature’s beauty.

At the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, explore scenic landscapes through various walking and hiking trails, with opportunities for birdwatching and picnicking amidst breathtaking vistas. This natural haven invites relaxation and outdoor adventure.

Adventure

The Golden Gate Highlands National Park offers breathtaking landscapes and a range of hiking trails, allowing you to explore dramatic cliffs and unique rock formations. For thrill-seekers, the Ash River offers white-water rafting adventures amidst stunning scenery, providing an adrenaline rush in a picturesque setting.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Free State offers a vibrant mix of bars and clubs. You can enjoy live music at venues like The Jazz Room or sip cocktails at the trendy Taal Monument. For a relaxed evening, the local pubs provide a warm atmosphere to unwind after a day of exploring.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Free State

To save on your trip to Free State, consider visiting during the cheaper months of August to September and November, avoiding the pricier April, October, and December. Book your stay on a Wednesday for the best rates, as Saturdays tend to be the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and accommodation type, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for further savings. Look for deals on platforms like Momondo to find the best prices and rates available.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Free State are August to September and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Free State is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Free State is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To uncover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in the Free State with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Free State

Free State offers a delightful mix of romantic and city-themed experiences, ideal for both business and leisure travellers. Visitors can explore a variety of popular attractions such as dams, churches, and landmarks, all while enjoying cultural and outdoor activities suitable for families. Whether you're seeking top Free State attractions or unique local experiences, this region promises a memorable vacation filled with diverse points of interest.

• Vaal Dam: Experience the stunning vistas of Vaal Dam, a serene oasis ideal for water sports, picnics, and leisurely strolls along the shore. The picturesque surroundings make it a great spot for relaxation and photography.
• Supreme Court of Appeal: Explore the Supreme Court of Appeal, an architectural gem that embodies South Africa's judicial heritage. This historic building offers insights into the country's legal framework and rich cultural narrative.
• Vredefort Dome: Visit the Vredefort Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its dramatic landscape formed by an ancient meteorite impact. The unique geological features and scenic beauty provide excellent hiking opportunities.

Best time to go to Free State

The best time to visit Free State can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Free State falls in November, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Free State falls in June, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	66.7°F (19.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	57.7°F (14.3°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	52.7°F (11.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	46.6°F (8.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
July	48.9°F (9.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	51.8°F (11.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	59.5°F (15.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
October	68.0°F (20.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	65.8°F (18.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High