Nestled 45 km north of Ficksburg, Rosendal is a delightful farming town often dubbed “The Free State’s Hidden Gem.” Its captivating scenery, highlighted by the picturesque Witteberg mountains, has transformed it into a favored tourist spot since its establishment in 1908. The town’s vibrant community, comprising small business owners and artists, adds to its unique charm.
Rosendal is famed for its distinctive “Tiny Homes,” earning it the title of South Africa’s tiny home capital. The town’s architecture is a blend of well-preserved early 20th-century buildings and modern designs, creating a visually appealing landscape. Visitors can explore various art galleries, enjoy local eateries and cafes, and stroll through a heritage district adorned with beautifully restored historic structures.
A perfect escape for the weekend, Rosendal is just over a three-hour drive from Johannesburg. Its scenic location, encircled by the Witteberg mountains, makes it an ideal place to relax and explore.
With a population of around 140 permanent residents, Rosendal sees a steady influx of weekend travelers and vacationers from Bloemfontein, Johannesburg, and other nearby cities. Despite its small size, the town boasts a diverse mix of professionals, artists, and rural dwellers. Alongside hosting lively music festivals and art exhibitions, Rosendal maintains its traditional farming heritage, with wild horses and cattle occasionally roaming the streets.
Picture: Sourced / @rosendaltown
There’s a social cycling “club” in Rosendal that is active and hosts enjoyable rides on Sunday mornings in addition to during the week.
Participation in these social rides is free of charge for all individuals, regardless of fitness levels. After the ride, you might be compelled to have a “kuier” coffee because Rosendallers enjoy socialising.
Numerous potholes have been reported on the route to Rosendal. An excerpt from an OFM article from 2023 said that “Nearly two billion to be spent on Free State roads.”
Also read: This small Free State road trip can show you big things
What to do in Rosendal:
Picture: Facebook / @Rosendal – Eastern Free State | Oos Vrystaat – Backdrop of the Witteberge
Discover the quaint gift and craft stores in Rosendal to find one-of-a-kind treasures. Along with small general stores for everyday necessities, the town also has a bottle shop and a bakery. You’ll be thrilled by what you discover by accident as you meander through. Just a reminder that even though Rosendal is an independent community, fuel services aren’t available on Sundays.
There are family-friendly activities available in this charming town. The breathtaking natural surroundings will appeal to nature lovers, and the thriving local arts scene will delight art enthusiasts.
Here are some highlights of what Rosendal has to offer:
- Antique Shops: Discover rare and timeless items.
- Art Galleries: Browse through a variety of artistic expressions.
- Hiking and Biking: Enjoy the scenic trails and outdoor activities.
Top Attractions:
Picture: Facebook / @Rosendal – Eastern Free State | Oos Vrystaat – Skurweberge
Rosendal Village Market
A favourite destination for both locals and tourists is the monthly Rosendal Village Market. Vendors of handcrafted goods, including pies, cookies, and pancakes, come to life at market stalls on these unique Saturdays. Also bringing their distinctive wares are vendors from adjacent towns. On the subsequent dates, from 10:00 to 12:00:
- 6 July 2024
- 10 August 2024
- 21 September 2024
- 12 October 2024
- 2 November 2024
- 14 December 2024
- 4 January 2025
Historic Rosendal – Self-Guided Tour
Use the self-guided tour to learn more about Rosendal’s rich past at your own speed. Discover the events that shaped the town, stroll through important landmarks, and come across fascinating stories. Utilising QR codes on your phone, discover local folklore such as the pastor’s wife who can’t stop whistling and the enigmatic claims of stolen rain.
Rosendal Ghost Walk
Take a ghost tour of Rosendal to discover its eerie side. In approximately one and a half hours, this walking tour will lead you through haunted landmarks and tell you spine-tingling historical tales. Join us for an exciting adventure under the stars.
Art at Yolla’s
Art at Yolla’s, the bar and restaurant inside Yolla’s, offers a selection of affordable local artwork. The exhibition is open Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 in the morning until late at night. The exhibit is occasionally open on Sundays as well, but it’s best to check ahead of time. Mondays and Wednesdays are closed at Yolla’s.
At Yolla’s, located in Rosendal at the intersection of Hertzog and Van der Merwe Streets, you can find Art. You can reach Yolanda at 082 660 5443 for further details.
ark. contemporary
Picture: Facebook / @Rosendal – Eastern Free State | Oos Vrystaat – Ark Rosendal
Established in 2021, ark. contemporary is a hub for Rosendal’s talented artists. The gallery, featuring artists like Grietjie Lee, Louis Olivier, Stella Olivier, and Wessel van Huyssteen, provides a space to exhibit and collaborate. The Gallery Gift Shop offers curated items for sale.
Hours:
- Thursday: 10:00-16:00
- Friday: 10:00-17:00
- Saturday: 09:00-17:00
- Sunday: 09:00-14:00
- Monday: By appointment
Location: 342 Kriek Street (Corner van der Merwe Street), Rosendal Contact: 079 587 6282
IMLA Guest Farm
Located between Rosendal and Clocolan, IMLA Guest Farm offers 60 km of MTB trails, outdoor adventures, educational camps, and team-building activities. It is part of the working Waterfall farm within the IMLA Farm Group.
Contact: 051 011 7819
Kaboedel Craft
Kaboedel Craft is the studio shop of Zaria de Villiers Martens and Dewald Martens. Discover exquisite handmade glasswork and hand-painted merino wool yarn. If you’re lucky, you might tour the mosaic house and studios.
Hours:
- Monday-Saturday: 09:00-16:00
- Sunday: 09:00-14:00
Location: 190 Botha Street, Rosendal Contact: 083 725 2080
Rosendal Handelshuis
Rosendal Handelshuis offers a variety of charming gifts, coffee, and information about the town. It also functions as a weekend café.
Hours:
- Saturday: 09:00-15:00
- Sunday: 09:00-13:00
- Monday-Friday: Closed
Location: Corner Hertzog and Church Streets, Rosendal Contact: 064 813 4933 or [email protected]
Culinary Delights:
Krummel
Café & Patisserie
Krummel (Afrikaans for “crumb”) offers a delicious selection of baked goods. Freshly made sourdough bread, a family favourite chocolate cake recipe, flaky pastries, and unique burnt-butter-chocolate-chip cookies are available for guests to enjoy. These treats are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
There’s a rotating selection of freshly baked treats to go along with a hearty breakfast or light meal from the menu. In addition, the café serves some of the best coffee in the area.
Visitors are welcome to peruse the carefully chosen home and decor items and restock on locally sourced deli goods while relaxing on the comfortable red couch with a steaming cup of coffee and a fresh croissant.
Hours:
- Friday – Monday: 08:00 – 15:00
- Tuesday – Thursday: Closed
Location: 364 Kriek Street, Rosendal
Contact: 071 442 0331
The Service Station
Wine Bar & Restaurant
Housed in a quaintly restored former petrol station, The Service Station Wine Bar stands out as a must-visit in Rosendal’s downtown. This inviting venue offers a relaxed atmosphere with comfortable seating, making it an ideal spot to unwind, socialize with locals, and savor a premium selection of wines and spirits. The menu highlights Southern European-inspired tapas and main dishes, all at reasonable prices.
On Sundays, patrons can enjoy Wine Flights and Charcuterie platters, adding a special touch to their visit.
July 2024 Holiday Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 15:00 – 20:00
- Enjoy Rosendal Glühwein, Kasi Kitchen order-in pizza, and a cozy fire!
Regular Hours:
- Friday: 14:00 – 21:00
- Saturday: 12:00 – 21:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 16:00
Happy Hour: Daily, 17:00 – 18:00 (except Sundays: 15:00 – 16:00)
Location: 319 Van Der Merwe Street, Rosendal
Contact: 084 548 7445
Yolla’s
Bar & Restaurant
Yolla’s is a welcoming bar, restaurant, and performance venue located in the heart of Rosendal. It’s a great place to enjoy drinks, pizzas, and lively interactions with both locals and visitors. Catch live sports events and join in on the Friday and Saturday pizza nights, which are popular social gatherings.
Holiday Hours (2-13 July):
- Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 – Late
Regular Hours:
- Thursday – Saturday: 10:00 – Late
- Sunday: Occasionally open (please inquire before visiting)
- Monday – Wednesday: Closed
Location: Corner Hertzog & Van der Merwe Streets, Rosendal
Contact: Yolanda at 082 660 5443
Rosendal Handelshuis
Waffle House
Rosendal Handelshuis is celebrated for its outstanding waffles, with some claiming them to be the best in South Africa, though the establishment modestly asserts the title for the Free State. Guests can experience a memorable waffle feast with choices such as the Eggs Benedict Waffle for breakfast and the Bo-bo-ti Waffle, infused with Cape Malay spices, for lunch. Sweet options include Peppermint Crisp waffles and traditional waffles topped with locally sourced honey.
Additionally, the menu features a range of milkshakes, including unique flavors like peanut butter and chai tea, as well as homemade ginger beer.
Hours:
- Saturday: 09:00 – 15:00
- Sunday: 09:00 – 13:00
- Monday – Friday: Closed
Location: Corner Hertzog and Church Streets, Rosendal
Contact: 064 813 4933
Where to stay:
The Rosendal Country Retreat
Picture: Facebook / @Rosendal – Eastern Free State | Oos Vrystaat – The Rosendal Country Retreat
The Rosendal Country Retreat offers guests a choice of comfortably furnished rooms and is situated in the small farming town of Rosendal.Rosendal offers several art galleries and cafes, and guests can explore the town to view the buildings and homes. Guests can hike the Mosamane Hiking Trail, go horse riding at Moolmanshoek, or go mountain biking in the area.
From R1,595 pn
*Rates may vary according to season/number of people
078 319 5019, therosendal.co.za
Rosendal Backpackers
If you’re travelling on business or exploring the untamed Free State, Rosendal Backpackers is a great choice. This reasonably priced hostel offers a range of tastefully furnished rooms that make for a cosy retreat following a demanding day of sightseeing or business. The hostel’s social areas and warm atmosphere encourage a feeling of community and let visitors meet people from all over the world.
Enjoy the charms of Rosendal, South Africa’s Free State, and make Rosendal Backpackers your home away from home. To enjoy a comfortable and reasonably priced stay in this alluring location, make your reservation now.
Contact for pricing
*Rates may vary according to season/number of people
068 400 7570, Rosendal Backpackers
Erf1 Guesthouse Rosendal
With a touch of old-world charm, this chic and distinctively furnished retreat offers a cosy and relaxed atmosphere that makes it the perfect choice for families and friends looking for a comfortable and relaxed stay. Ideally located on the outskirts of Rosendal, it caters to individuals who want to peruse the village market, visit the wine bar, eat at local restaurants and explore the town’s picture galleries.
The home has large living areas with reed ceilings, a dining area with a Jewel cooker and a quaint reading nook with a fireplace. There’s a dedicated coffee station for guests to enjoy in the mornings, and there’s a large garden with lovely views of the surrounding foothills where they can unwind with a braai. In addition to four bedrooms furnished with plush white bed linens and towels, the property has off-road parking and an additional water tank for convenience.
Contact for pricing
*Rates may vary according to season/number of people
084 548 7445
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