Excelsior

This small town, about 110 km north-east of Bloemfontein, owes its existence to a few farmers who became tired of travelling the long distance between Ladybrand and Winburg and subsequently decided in 1910 to erect their own “Half Way House ” stop.

Adventure And Sport

Bird-hunting: Pointers Hunting Lodge has accommodation in a beautifully restored old farmhouse and offers bird-hunting opportunities accompanied by trained dogs. Patrysvlug Hunting alo offers bird-hunting packages, especially partridge shooting, with the necessary accommodation options included.

4×4 routes: There are 4×4 routes laid out on the farm Vrugbaar and a 4×4, two-hour endurance race is hosted here every year, during June or July.

Hiking: Several hiking trails have been laid out in the district. These include the Merrimetsi and Korannaberg Trails.

Horse riding: Horse riding can be done on several private farms in the district.

Sport: Excelsior has facilities for badminton, bowls, squash and tennis and golfers are welcome to a round of golf at the Excelsior Golf Club.

Archaeology And Palaeontology

San Rock Art: Good examples of San rock art can be seen at Korannaberg. Contact the Municipality for more details.

Art And Crafts

Hunters Taxidermy: The taxidermy business is located in an old renovated sandstone building. Visitors are welcome to visit and view the many mounted animal heads (trophies) and to learn more about the art of taxidermy.

Pottery: Visit Ria’s Pottery Studio on a nearby farm for local, hand crafted pottery articles. Contact the Information Centre for more information.

History And Architecture

Anglo-Boer War Monument: The Anglo-Boer War Monument was erected in honour of those who lost their lives during the Anglo-Boer War.

Sandstone buildings: The town has two sandstone churches and a historic old sandstone reservoir. The striking Dutch Reformed Church was designed by architects Moerdyk and Louw and built out of local sandstone. The unique church organ is one of only six of its kind in the country.