In 1866 James Barkly laid out a town on his farm, Klipfontein. His daughter was a keen gardener and he named the town after her interests. Bloemhof means 'Garden of Flowers' in Dutch. During this era there was a pontoon, called North Star, which transported travelers across the Vaal River. Today the waters of the Bloemhof Dam covers the spot of the old ferry crossing.
Bloemhof is a maize and cattle farming town on the banks of the Vaal River. This town is situated in the Southern Region of the north west Province.
The tranquil town of Bloemhof is situated on the banks of the Vaal River along the N12 Highway.
Bloemhof is predominantly a farming town but its attractive location makes for an ideal outdoor destination.
Climate
Generally mild to hot but can be cold in winter especially at night.
Bloemhof Dam Reserve hosts a wide variety of plains game with particularly large herds of springbok, black wildebeest, eland and gemsbok. Over 250 species of birds have been recorded at the reserve including some rare waterfowl on the dam.
The reserve hosts several national and international fishing competitions including the Tri-Nations and the Bloemhof Bonanza.
The Bloemhof Dam is open for all watersports. Powerboat launching facilities are provided.
Angling is also permitted on the Vaal River below the dam wall. When visiting the Bloemhof Dam Reserve, take in the dam wall, accessed from the village. A dramatic experience when the river is in full flood |