Parys is a Vibrant Small Town of South Africa
Antiques, Crafts, Food and Adventure Make Parys a Sensory Explosion.
Oct 27, 2008
Described as a fast developing country town, up to 12 000 vehicles can pass through Parys in a single day. Several suggestions about the origin of the name Parys have been made. The most commonly accepted explanation name comes form the German land surveyor, Mr Schillbach.
Five years after he served in the Fanco-Prussian War, he likened the Vaal River to the Seine in Paris. He said that a day would come when a big town would lie on either side of the river, just like Paris. It seems then that his prediction came true. With the town’s plethora of accommodation, restaurants and activities one could feel satisfied - but Parys also has a few unique features.
Don’t Miss
- The Vredefort Dome is a World Heritage Site and situated 120km southwest of Johannesburg. It was formed 2020 million years ago when an asteroid collided with the earth at a speed of 30 000km/h. With a diameter of 300km, this scar is described as the world’s largest and oldest impact structure.
- A combination of the Vaal River and unique rock types has resulted in diverse plant and animal life. At least 99 plant species have been identified so far, including the well-known wild olive forest. There is also over 450 species of birds and is home to rare species such as the aardwolf, leopard and rooikat.
- The Vaal De Grace Golf and Country Estate is the only golf course in South African to be built on an island and golfers can play over two provinces. Homes are being built within the golf estate and there are both tennis and squash courts. The trendy restaurant 1876 Clubhouse looks over the golf course and is an ideal spot for enjoying the 19th hole.
Activities
History buffs will love the archeologist digs, Bushman paintings, and the Parys Museum. The Town Hall was built in the 1930’s in the Art Deco style. The current Parys Palm Court Hotel is a surviving century old building and the 1919 suspension bridge links Parys to the island.
Those seeking adventure need look no further than Parys. From white water rafting, to 4x4 and hot air-ballooning, every adrenaline junkie will find their fix. Antique shops, arts and crafts are plentiful. The best idea is to work your way up on one side of Breë street and then walk back down to your parked car on the other side. Just make sure that you have a heavy wallet before you begin. Most of the shops close around lunch time.
Restaurants and Accommodation
This town is geared for visitors. Places to stay both in and outside of the town are numerous. Call the Parys Info Office with your accommodation request, and they will be able to suggest a spot suited to your needs. As for where to eat, catch a friendly local and ask them which place they would recommend.
Directions to Parys
From Johannesburg, take the N1 South. 1km before the Kroon Vaal toll plaza, take the R59 off ramp called Sasolburg/Parys. At the stop of turn right and drive towards Parys on the R59. In The main road into Parys turns left.
For more information click here.
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