J.D.F. Jones (London Financial Times of 20 June 1998) explores the plateau between Johannesburg and Cape Town and finds plenty of surprises to break a long drive.
" If driving south-west, stop off for the night at a fascinating settlement called Philippolis, at the southern end of the main road and just north of the Orange River. That is 550 km from Johannesburg, which is enough for the day.
Philippolis is the oldest white settlement in the Free State and has enough history to justify a visit. It was the capital of the Griquas in the mid-19th century as is demonstrated in the surviving Griqua cottages and in a small museum, whose distinction is that it is the only museum I know which specialises in the sale of alcholic liquor - the notorious Free State witblitz, a mighty hooch akin to grappa.

Transgariep is the vast, outstretched landscape that lies in the southern tip of the Free State. Its semi-desert vegetation of grass, shrubs, karoobossies and mesembryanthemums covers the hills and vales, and epitomises the wild and free spirit of this land.

Philippolis is the oldest mission station in the Free State, and it is home to several declared national monuments. The town has retained its historical appearance, making it a special tourist attraction.

Sir Laurens van der Post was born here, and his birth place is a declared national monument. His ashes is part of a monument that was erected in his honour. Tour the Emily Hobhouse School of Weaving which forms part of the Transgariep Museum.

If you're there during April, do not miss the annual Witblits Festival!