Surrounded by flat topped sandstone hills, Fouriesburg lies only 10 km from the Lesotho border. The town, with it’s rustic enchantment and many attractions, encircled by rough terracotta sandstone gorges, is well known for it’s fine accommodation and affords the visitor easy access to the sights and wonders of the Eastern Free State. The town was established in 1892 and was named after Christoffel Fourie (Rooi Stoffel) on whose farm Groenfontein it was laid out. For a short period during the Anglo Boer War Fouriesburg served as seat of the Orange Free State government and was nearly completely destroyed during heavy fighting in the region.

GENERAL INFORMATION

How to get there

Clarens 36 km, Ficksburg 53 km, Bethlehem 42 km

Banks – Fnb (ATM’s 1)

Mountains - Maluti

HISTORICAL VIEW

Battlesites

Several Anglo Boer War battlesites in the vicinity of the town can be visited

Dutch Reformed Church

During the Basotho Wars, Paul Kruger and his commando camped here temporarily

Fouriesburg Hotel

A charming piece of agricultural history on the original Fourie Farm.

President Steyn House - The humble dwelling of the former Free State President

‘Queen Victoria’ - A unique sandstone formation in the shape of a finger.

San Rock Art - Can be viewed on more than 27 farms in the district.

Sandstone Museum

An old, stately museum featuring carefully constructed historical exhibits

Surrender Hill

A memorial to fallen British soldiers and Boer guerillas stands on the spot where, after being cornered, 4000 Boers surrendered and were sent to India as prisoners of war.

NATURE

Meiringskloof Nature Reserve

A picturesque reserve, including the Brandwater Hiking Trail, and a large cave where a group of women took refuge during the Anglo Boer War. Accommodation facilities consist of a caravan park and well equipped chalets. Hiking, rowing and horse riding.

Saltpeterkrans Cave

One of the largest sandstone caves in the southern hemisphere can be seen on the farm Braamhof. This dramatic formation is a traditional Basotho worship ground

ATTRACTIONS

Annual Events

Agricultural Show and Asparagus Festival

‘Surrender Hill’ Marathon and Half Marathon – September

Asparagus Festival and Agricultural Show – October

Rose Show – November

Holkrans – at Meiringskloof

ACTIVITIES

4 x 4 Routes

Explore the rugged Fouriesburg countryside in a vehicle that can take it.

Hiking - Boesmandgrot Hiking Trail, Lesoba Hiking Trail

Brandwater Hiking Trail

Leading through beautiful scenic valleys and gorges, this is a five day expedition offering an outdoor experience not easily forgotten.