A trip to thrill all ages

We’ve all felt it … when, after an indefinite period of isolation, the four walls surrounding you start to close in. Time to get outdoors. And Sandstone Estates offers the perfect destination.  This site – located in the Free State near the town of Ficksburg and the Maluti Mountain range – provides locals of all ages with a get-out-of-the-city escape, and for those who live further afield, it’s well worth travelling for.

It’s brilliant for the inquisitive and adventurous … you can ride on a historical steam-train or vintage bus through the scenic surrounds of the estate, and learn about the vintage army, steam and farming equipment. There really is so much to explore on this highly productive farmland, toiled by a team of three dozen working  oxen … it’s all state-of-the-art heritage vs modern farming equipment, with attractions every which way you look.

Walking tours … let’s start with these.  As if the captivating scenery and the promise of fresh air isn’t temptation enough, these walking tours include the viewing of machinery and displays that hold much historical significance. Starting at the Waenhuis Café, you can see everything from military vehicles to tractor displays, from ox wagon to vintage workshops. There’s also an engine museum, the rolling stock shed as well as a Sherman tank shed.

Stylish travel adventures … If you appreciate unique ways of travelling, why not take a trip to the Lesotho border? You can go in either the Estate’s BSA Rail Car, or in their 1910 Classic Edwardian Rail Car. Or you could take a trip in the Wickham Rail Trolley, followed by an ox wagon or military vehicle ride. Alternatively, take the cute Fowler locomotive, as it snakes along the tracks to Grootdraai, or the sturdy Garratts powering the hefty Mountain Wanderer train along the 30km of narrow-gauge track. What more could you ask for, in the name of adventure?

Great accommodation options … for those staying over, there are three affordable options to choose from, for up to 32 guests. For those who like to go simple, there are camping facilities … all camp-fire songs and marshmallows … kids love it! (R380 per night per stand).

There are also six self-catering Victorian cottages. These sleep four guests in twin-bed rooms, and have fully kitted kitchens and shower-bathrooms (R1980), as well as lovely Railway Cottages (R425 per night per person). Braai facilities are also on offer (cue stomach grumble).

Wondering who exactly this venue cater for? Everyone! It has proven to charm a range of groups … executive getaways, student and tourist outings, product launches, year-end functions and corporate team-building ventures. The breathtaking landscape has also attracted television, video and photographic location shoots, and it’s massively (and deservedly) popular for weddings

If you’re in need of an escape – aren’t we all – there is no better place than this.

Safety first … Keeping in line with the various lockdown restrictions, as well as with the additional Covid-19 protocols in place, the Sandstone Estate team has designed a program to entertain a diverse range of needs and interests. Visitor numers and accommodation occupancy remain subject to lockdown restrictions.

Details:  Mariette Palmer on 064-752-3852 or 051-933-2235 or www.sandstone-estates.com