Location: South Africa » Free State » Parys

Parys

Parys is a resort town, northern Free State province, South

Parys is situated on the southern bank of the Vaal River. Parys was founded in 1873 and most likely named by a German surveyor named Schilbach, who had fought in the siege of Paris in 1870. Parys officially became a town in 1887. Tobacco, corn (maize), sorghum, and cattle are raised in the surrounding area.

 

Established in 1876 by the Van Coller brothers on the farm Klipspruit. Situated only 120 km from Gauteng, Parys is one of the most popular holiday venues in the Free State. The town was reputedly so named by a land surveyor because the site of the town, on the banks of the Vaal River, reminded him of Paris (France). The Vaal River is stubbed with tree covered islands, several of which have been developed into beautiful pleasure resorts, offering endless opportunities for relaxation. Whether enjoying a picnic under the shady trees or ripping through the wake of a powerful motorboat on a pair of skis, you’re sure of a relaxing holiday in Parys.

GENERAL INFORMATION

How to get there

N1 18 km, Sasolburg 37 km, Vanderbijlpark 50 km, Potchefstroom 48 km

Altitude: 1694 m above sea level

Average Rainfall: 650 mm per year

Average Temperatures - Summer 15,6°c – 28,45°c; Winter 0,25°c – 18,15°c

Banks – Absa (ATM’s 2), Fnb (ATM’s 2), Saambou, Standard (ATM’s 2)

Rivers – Vaal River

HISTORICAL VIEW

Anglican Church

This church was built with blue granite from relief camp of the British in the Anglo Boer War.

Parys Monument - Dedicated to the town itself. National Monument

Parys Museum

Cultural and historical displays. Information on the geological features of the area. National Monument

War Memorial

ATTRACTIONS

Game Farms – Thabella Thabong, Buffelskloof

Golf Island

One of the unique attractions of Parys is Golf Island, only accessible via a suspension bridge. Built in 1919, the bridge is high enough to allow access to the island even when the river is in flood.

Steyns Island – Beautiful island offering picnic spots

Adventure and Recreation Centre

Vredefort Dome

Woody Island – Island Resort

ACTIVITIES

Hiking

Boot & Paddle Hiking Trail, Buffelskloof Hiking Trail, Emfuleni Hiking Trail, Kruin Hiking Trail

Likkewaan

A 20 km hiking trail in the Vredefort Dome. Prolific birdlife, game, historical battle sites and the remains of diamond diggings along the river. Shorter options available. Rooihans Trail, Stap and Delf Trail

River Rafting

Dimalachite, Hadeda Creek, Hakuna Matata Adventures, Smilin Thru, Sunwa

 

Outdoors

Abseiling, Angling, Bird Watching, Boating, Canoeing, Game Viewing, Gliding, Swimming, Water skiing.


 

Parys

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Accommodation in and around Parys

Klein Paradys Caravan Park    accommodation in Parys
This quiet and delightfully clean 4-star resort is situated in the Brits area,         about an hour-and-a-halfs drive from Johannesburg, and an hours drive        from P... More

Waterfront Guest House    accommodation in Parys
The Waterfront Guest House/Lodge is situated on the banks of the Vaal River in the beautiful town of Parys, Free State - just a mere 110 km from Johannesburg. Parys is situated in the Vredefort Dome, the oldest and biggest meteorite crater in the ... More

Carryblaire River Retreat    accommodation in Parys
Only an hours drive from JHB and nestling on the banks of the Vaal River near Parys, Carryblaire River Retreat embodies peace, tranquillity and a sense of oneness with nature. With its own natural island and being a registered bird sanctuary the view... More

EGWENI    accommodation in Parys
EGWENI, "place of the Vaal River" in the indigenous Zulu Tongue, is situated in the beautiful town of Parys, in South Africa's Free State province. As the name describes Egweni is along the banks of the mighty Vaal River. It is only 110... More




Directory of accommodation in Parys