If you haven’t been to Parys, you better make a plan. This small Free State town is not only loved by Joburgers who seek a weekend’s reprieve from the hot city streets, it’s also a haven for residents from surrounding towns who are keen for a taste of adventure.
This Parys also has an Eiffel Tower. Picture: Matthew Sterne
Although I don’t like to compare apples to pears, some would argue a trip to Parys is even more sought-after than a visit to the French City of Love that bears the same name in Afrikaans.
The Vaal River is an oasis. Picture: Getaway gallery
In the Free State’s Paris, you can do anything from shopping for antiques and art to kayaking down rapids in the Vaal River and hiking where a meteorite struck Earth. Here are six options to kick off with.
Also Read: 15 cool things to do in Knysna, the jewel of the Garden Route
1. Go thrift shopping in town
Picture: byronv2/Flickr Commons
If you like taking to the streets, there are ample antique stores, second-hand book and clothing stores and great coffee for recharging in between. Just park in the main street, start from one end and work your way all the way through.
Also Read: The 20 Best Spas in Johannesburg
2. Unwind at a spa
If you’re on holiday, there’s nothing wrong with a little pampering. Picture: Pexels
No break would be complete without de-stressing at a spa. Belle Foi Spa just outside town is one of the best, and offers a wide range of indulgent treatments.
Also Read: 60 things to do in Cape Town with kids in 2023
3. Go river rafting
You might get a little splash here and there. Picture: Matthew Sterne
Real Adventures offers exactly that. The Vaal River has excellent white water rafting spots, and it’s great fun. Make sure to double up on sunblock, and take a dip in the cool waters when you get a chance.
Also Read: The Lion’s Head hike: A guide to Cape Town’s iconic trek
4. Hike the Vredefort Dome
Picture: Ossewa/Wikimedia Commons
Over two billion years ago, one of the largest meteors to ever hit the Earth collided with a spot 10km from the centre of Parys. It left behind the largest-known crater on the planet with an indentation 40km deep and 360km wide, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can explore it on a hike with Fagala Voet.
Also Read: 11 Things to Do in Cape Town for Couples
5. Do a wine tasting at Pont de Val
Wine outside of the Western Cape? You bet! Pictures: Pexels
When you’re done hiking and river rafting, reward yourself with impeccable wine at Pont de Val. Their wine is produced on-site and is nothing short of fabulous.
Also Read: Babylonstoren: A Boland paradise waiting to be explored
6. Go hot air ballooning
Get a different point of view. Picture: Unsplash
For those looking for even more, Hot Air Ballooning SA will take you to the skies. You’ll be able to experience the beautiful Vaal River, the Vredefort Dome and the surrounding farmlands from above.
Also Read: 11 day trips out of Cape Town for the whole family to enjoy
Stay here
The Parys Golf & Country Estate, Unit 3003 is a marvellous double-storey eight-sleeper for families or friend groups.
Picture: Parys Golf & Country Estate, Unit 3003
Situated right on the river bank, your view is a bright green burst of willows and your soundtrack is the bubbling of the rapids over rocks.
Kick up your feet! Picture: Anita Froneman
You can wake up to this every morning and dip your feet in the river, right from the lawn.
Picture: Anita Froneman
The estate also offers one of the best golf courses in the area, for those eager to hone their skills with a few rounds or just get some practice on the driving range.
When you’re done taking in all the sights and doing the activities in Parys, why not go southeast, and discover the 20 ultimate things to do in Clarens, the “Jewel of the Eastern Free State”?
ALSO READ: A great new offering of hiking and cycling trails in the south of Joburg
