Richmond is South Africa’s very own Book Town.

Book Town? What does that even mean?

According to Wikipedia:

“A book town is a town or village with many used book or antiquarian bookstores. These stores, as well as literary festivals, attract bibliophile tourists. Some book towns are members of the International Organisation of Book Towns.”

Richmond is a proud Book Town! And its situated just off of the N1, between Bloemfontein and Beaufort West.

This charming little town offers a welcomed escape from the tedium of the long road heading beach-ward.

Accommodation

Because of its status as a Book Town and the fact that it plays host to yearly literary festivals such as Boekbedonnerd, Richmond offers various accommodation options for you to take a break before heading further south.

Attractions

Richmond doesn’t only promise joy for the bibliophiles in your life. With art galleries and the rugged beauty of the northern cape and the Great Karoo surrounding it, even just a stroll through the streets will give your travel-weary soul a break and take your mind off the long road still ahead.

With its platteland vibes and thriving community of local farmers, Richmond will never disappoint.

Where to eat?

While many of the accommodation options are self-catering and the amazing local climate lends itself to al fresco dining almost every night of the year, there are a couple of places in town where you can sit back and have your meals prepared for you.

What to do?

As we have already mentioned, Richmond plays host to various literary festivals.

Both Boekbedonnerd and Madibaland Literary Festival take place in Richmond.

Looking for a souvenir?

In Richmond you won’t have to buy tacky fridge magnets or ill-fitting t-shirts as souvenirs. This little town, true to its identity as “Book Town” boasts a number of excellent book dealers. With their perfectly curated selections of second hand books, you’ll be spoilt for choice as you meander through the town, popping in at each little shop.

Here is a list of Richmond Book dealers, click on the link below.

Richmond may not be as famous as the other little tourist towns in South Africa (yet), but it’s well worth the detour next time you are making your way along the N1.

It’s a quaint break from the rushed highway, and the perfect way to set your mind at ease and get into the holiday mood.