Harrismith

Harrismith is a large town situated on the N3 highway in the Free State province of South Africa between Johannesburg (about 350 km from Johannesburg) and Durban. This important crossroads in South Africa's land trade routes is surrounded by mesas and buttes and located at base of one of these called "Platberg" ("Flat Mountain" translated from Afrikaans). The town was founded in 1849 by British Governor Harry Smith, who tried to persuade the disillusioned Voortrekkers not to abandon Natal. Harrismith is the centre of one of the five wool producing districts in Southern Africa.

Tourist Attractions

*Harrismith Town Hall - A graceful sandstone and brick building built in 1907, and a National Monument.
*Harrismith Wildflower Gardens - Founded in 1967 as a botanical garden these contain about 20 % of the Drakensburg region's flora. Located around two dams fed by mountain springs. Perfect picnic spot.
*Platberg - The most famous landmarks in the Eastern Free State, the 9 kilometre long, 2 377 metre high Platberg.
* Harrismith Golf Course - The 18-hole golf course is the third oldest in South Africa
*Kerkenberg - The Voortrekkers camped in the area, whilst their leader, Piet Retief, negotiated with the Zulu leader Dingane. After receiving reports of what the Voortrekkers interpreted as successful negotiations, Retief's daughter wrote his name and recorded the date, which was also his birthday, on the rock where they held a church service.
*Sterkfontein Dam - The third largest dam in South Africa. Practically all the water is pumped up the escarpment from KwaZulu-Natal. Built before the Lesotho Highlands water scheme was developed, this was a vital source of water for Gauteng. Ideal for water sport enthusiasts and anglers.

Accommodation links

* [http://www.harrismithaccommodation.co.za/ www.harrismithaccommodation.co.za] – The View 3 Star bed and breakfast in Harrismith
* [http://www.harrismithmanor.co.za/ www.harrismithmanor.co.za] – Summit Legacy Manor bed and breakfast accommodation
* [http://www.wildhorses.co.za/ www.wildhorses.co.za] – Wild Horses Mountain Lodge - 5 Star Accommodation