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Mini guide to Bethlehem

The town of Bethlehem in South Africa's eastern Free State province is situated on the N5 highway. The town lies in a valley on the banks of the Liebenbergs River acts as a gateway for many tourists who use cheap car hire in Bethlehem to see the nearby Rooiberg Mountains.

The name Bethlehem translates as house of bread and the town was named due to wheat being a crop that flourished in the valley. It is still widely grown and a drive through the local countryside with car rental in Bethlehem will take you through miles of golden maize fields. If you visit in October you can enjoy the annual Maize Festival celebrating the local produce.

In addition to the Rooibery Mountains the Drakensberg is within driving distance of car hire in Bethlehem. Not too far from the town is the Golden Gate Highlands National Park where a huge variety of mammals and birds can be seen in their natural environment.

Bethlehem is adjacent to Loch Athlone that was formed in the River Jordaan by a building of a dam. The lake is surrounded by fantastic walking trails and there is a variety of sporting activities available. Several restaurant located here provide a beautiful setting as the sun goes down.