About Kestell

Kestell, Thabo Mofutsanyana

While Kestell may be a very small village nestled within the foothills of the mountains of the Free State, it boasts an interesting history and breath-taking landscapes. It was initially established in 1905 on two farms, but has since grown to be a little hamlet in its own rights. Still, there are homes in Kestell that date back to the very early 1800's, testifying to a community that pioneered the development of the modern-day residential area.

Kestell is situated about halfway between Harrismith and Bethlehem, being around 45 kilometres from both of them. The capital city of Bloemfontein is just less than 290 kilometres away. The village has the Maluti Mountain and the Rooiberge Mountain as its idyllic backdrops. The sandstone found here was used to construct many of the churches and other historical buildings that still stand in Kestell as remnants of yesteryear.

Kestell is the ideal spot for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the tranquillity of the South African landscapes. The mountains are perfect for hiking and cycling as well as motorcycling. There is an abundance of birdlife here, allowing avid avian enthusiasts to indulge in hours of undisturbed bird-watching. The Basotho Cultural Village invites visitors to get a glimpse into the local culture and makes for a lovely day trip.