The N1, the main road running between Johannesburg and Cape Town, slices through the Free State. For many travellers, it’s a stop along the way to other tourist meccas. But for those looking to take things slow, it is road-trip country. Only a smattering of small towns intersect the never-ending road with the capital, Bloemfontein, at the centre of the province.
Why you should visit: If you’re exploring Clarens and the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, make a detour to kick up some dust. Bergwoning offers two 4X4 trails. One is a 6 km, two-hour, family-friendly self-drive trail while the other is a 26 km route, guided by the owner, Thys Martiz, an adrenalin-busting adventure for experienced drivers.