The scenic Friendly N6 runs between East London in the Eastern Cape and Bloemfontein in the Free State. Embark on a scenic journey through the Eastern Cape farmlands and small inland towns, past endless mountains occasionally topped with snow, and over the Orange River which separates the Eastern Cape and the Free State.
Along the route, you will pass through the towns of Stutterheim, Cathcart, Queenstown, Aliwal North, Rouxville, Smithfield, and Reddersburg.
A host of things to do include visiting many museums, buying Xhosa arts and crafts, trips into the mountains, guided rock art trails, fishing, hiking, birding, mountain biking, horse riding and farm holidays.
Accommodation offerings along the N6 route include budget backpackers, charming guesthouses, rustic B&Bs and luxury hotels with many game and nature reserves spread throughout the route.
This route has its attractions all year round. Be warned, though, that the Eastern Cape part of the route traverses high country and mountain passes are sometimes closed in winter because of snowfalls.
Kids will love…
East London Museum
This interesting museum has some unique displays, such as the only remaining Dodo egg and the famous Coelacanth. It also has many interesting facts about East London. Tel: +27 (43) 743 0686
Smithfield Cemetery
There are war graves and the graves of historical figures, like the first church Dominee of the Reformed Church and the first shopkeeper.
Queens Casino – Queenstown
Kids can play on the jungle gyms in the gardens or play a friendly game of 18-hole mini golf. There are several restaurants and also a games arcade. Tel: +27 (45) 807 9700
Frontier Museum – Queenstown
The museum was built as a school but now houses, among many other interesting exhibits, a fully rebuilt and furnished frontier cottage. Tel: +27 (45) 839 5860
Kologha Forest Walks – Stutterheim
Step into a different world and revel in the natural beauty of the pristine, indigenous Khologha Forest – the second largest natural forest in South Africa.
Naval Hill Planetarium – Bloemfontein
Experience the “magic” of a digital planetarium while a physics professor explains just how small earth is. High tech and educational but even a six-year-old can understand! Tel: +27 (51) 401 9751