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From R790 per night, for 2 ppl
108
5
1
4
River of Joy Off-ramp 213 on N1
Glen
9302
Free State
021 344 2440
14:00-21:00
10:00
-28.962933333333
26.345566666667
River of Joy
River of Joy
River of Joy
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The accommodation comprises 7 spacious self-catering units with private entrances.
Additional on-site facilities include a conference or function facility for up to 35 delegates.
Ideal for travellers along the N1, 25 km North of Bloemfontein in the Free State. A resting place with a view in a secure and peaceful environment.
The accommodation comprises 7 spacious self-catering units with private entrances.
Additional on-site facilities include a conference or function facility for up to 35 delegates.
Ideal for travellers along the N1, 25 km North of Bloemfontein in the Free State. A resting place with a view in a secure and peaceful environment.
Features
Reviews (108)
108 guests' feedbackThe heater was on when we arrived, which was wonderful. The place is clean but small. We managed to braai and cook and had a good night's sleep! Thanks, Bertha.
Perfect, wish we could stay longer.
Beautiful area and the cottage had everything we needed.
Nice, quiet environment.
At first I was skeptical. But I was surprised. The shower is not modern, but the water was deliciously hot. The mattress was very good. It's just what you really want.
It was perfect for an overnight stop on a long journey.
Nice quiet environment.
July 2024 - NO HOT WATER.
The noise of passing N1 traffic is disturbing.
Bed was comfortable, and spot clean, but smelled cramped and musty. No water in fridge or even only ice bucket in freezer section. Parking far from accommodation if you need to drop off luggage.
Campsite and self-catering available. Turn off the N1, located just a little further on a neat dirt road, get back on N1 very easily. Owner was very helpful. Could buy braai packs with delicious meat right on the premises. Enough space for your pram - can turn around without unhooking. Tree-rich, various bird species, peaceful and comfortable.
The facility is very untidy. Junk lying around in common areas. Doors are difficult to close and are coming out of the frames. They could install solar/battery lights in the bathroom and kitchen as they are very dark and dingy. Bathtub is so gross, we chose to bath in the sink. The light fittings have holes around them and could see into the ceiling. The TV woudn't turn on.
Very neglected. The place needs a lot of love and attention.
We stayed comfortably. Only problem was that TV didn't work. We were only there one night so it didn't bother us much.
Lovely homely environment, with a "farm" feel to it. Accommodation was clean and spacious. Friendly service received. Will definitely go back again.
Good, fast, friendly service and a well-appointed room with everything you need for a lovely evening's rest in a beautiful farm setting.
Nice environment. Close to river and highway.
If it is raining the indoors would be small especially with children.
I was sorry we paid so much for the room. I expected much more. There was no sugar or milk, only 2 bags of coffee. No soap or cream in the bathroom and it was just generally disappointing. If we had paid half, I would have had no problem, but we are used to higher standards at that price.
Only slept over. Basic services.
We used the Family Unit. First impression when you walk in, cramped, dark, old cramped furniture, fridge parts of which are loose (freezer door inside), a loose mattress lying on the couch and that sitting area was not a place you wanted to sit after long not traveling, retarded and old. Our shower was clogged and had a smell. There were bats in the upper unit with all the single beds where my son and his fiance slept, they went to sleep in their vehicle through the night. Overall we were disappointed. The yard is neat and has nice big trees.
Go and see.
Not really much to get excited about.
See stars.
On the highway, trucks keep you awake all night.
Will not use the place again.
They just need a shower. It only has a bath.
The reception and meals are very nice and neat. The interior of the house needs urgent attention. The noise of the trucks on the main road remains a problem.
See stars.
The accommodation was very nice and conveniently located near the N1 motorway. The rooms were very neat and the electric blanket kept away the cold winter nights in the Free State. Unfortunately there was no hot water and no water pressure. So it was very inconvenient to shower and it made one very cold in the early morning or before going to bed. The service was very good and we enjoyed it and will definitely stay here again if the water situation changes soon.
Will not sleep there again.
The river was brown, not the owners fault but that's how it is. The rooms were very dated, reminded me of visiting grandma in the 1970s. The bath had rust marks around the plug and the tiling was aged. The TV was the old wide version with a wire coat hanger type aerial. The room was spacious and clean and it was OK for a quick one night stop over. The swimming pool was ridiculous. It looked like a large hippo waste bag filled with water! The gardens and setting were pleasant.
It's a cute little place, but it didn't justify the R590 for us. It did meet our needs for one night's sleep.
See stars.
Outstanding! Very clean and tidy. The hospitality immediately made us feel at home. The dinner and breakfast were delicious! We had such a great time and can definitely recommend River of Joy and would love to visit again.
Nice stay. Was quick but got everything we needed.
We enjoyed the fresh air and tranquility. It was awfully nice.
Apparently there was a misunderstanding with the reservation, I asked for a room but the reservation said camping. Everything worked out well and effort was made to give me hot coffee as the power was out due to a storm and I couldn't make my own.
Nice place to spend the night if you are on the long road.
Very pleasant and friendly host. Unfortunately WiFi is not available while advertised, otherwise very pleasant. Might put stronger air cooler in units as it gets very hot in here and the cooling helps but is a bit minor.
Will be beautiful in the summer. River accessible and banks clean. Tariff a bit high, especially for the caravans. Slept well.
Upon arrival, the lady just unlocked the place and got herself out of the way before we could enter the place. Dust greeted us with an open window. No DStv as indicated. Microwave did not work. No person turned up the next morning to hear if there were any queries. Rusty grater that is dangerous. No broom or any mop. As we were leaving I called her. She didn't put her feet out the door, where she made her appearance so quickly on Friday night.
At least they could have just cleaned the place before we got there.
Price shown compared to others of the same and cheaper itself disappointing.
River of Joy is a must. Stunning and peaceful, perfect if you need to find yourself.
Great value for money! Everything you need, neat and clean.
Had a great stay and the people were very hospitable, friendly and accommodating.
Excellent service. Perfectly located for an overnight stay.
The only issue we had was the shower, it did not work very lekker but the rest of the service and accommodation was wonderful.
Thanks so much for a safe and neat overnight stay on our travels. Neat and sensible.
Used the small double room and had everything we needed. Braai was nice and clean and it was nice to sit outside and visit by the fire.
We arrived late and were warmly received and helped. Neat and clean accommodation and the tasty rusk was an unexpected treat!
Everything was very convenient, from the booking, payment and directions. We had a wonderfully peaceful stay, without disturbances. Had what we needed.
It's very affordable and people are very friendly. The shower floor and bathroom floor just need a proper scrubbing with Pinegel or Vim, otherwise it was warm and clean and we rested well. Thanks, will recommend them.
Accommodation was nice and peaceful.
Nice quiet place and good value for money.
Great shade trees by the river. Good birdlife and fish to be watched.
River of Joy is a beautiful place surrounded by gorgeous natural beauty. Safe and peaceful area with animals that was nice for the children to visit, but the house definitely hadn't been cleaned before our arrival. There were cobwebs in every corner of the room and bathroom. Cockroaches ran around in the house and we also found them in the bed we had to sleep in. It was horrible. Coffee, sugar and tea were offered but it was ancient and rock hard. We couldn't even get it out of the bottle to use it. The lady who received us was very kind and friendly and made us feel very welcome. The house wasn't clean though and in the end that is all you really want after a long day on the road - a clean and neat place to sleep for the night. Pest control can definitely be recommended for this place. Thanks anyway. Despite the abovementioned things we still had a nice stay at River of Joy.
The people are very friendly, but when I opened the door to my unit, there were spider webs on my face. The place doesn't look very pretty and it's not value for money.
The room smelled like smoke despite the 'No Smoking' signs against the walls. Bedding and towels were old and had better days. I definitely wouldn't stay there again.
No number directions, had to drive around and struggled to get a room. Gas bottle open in the living room, don't think it's safe! No fire extinguishers and no instructions in case of emergency! Beds not the same height. Bathroom mock small. Notice on ceiling, "black mold growing". Plates do not fit in the microwave. Chair broke when my 78-year-old father sat on it, he only weighs 74 kg, he hurt his back now. Not worth it, not at all. Bathroom light switch in the other bedroom/dining room/kitchen? TV from 1970 takes up all the space on the table, no place to eat. Although they try, I really think their standards are far from what they should be, but rather just a campsite week. Would recommend that people stay elsewhere and request a refund please.
Very peaceful atmosphere, only 20 minutes from Bloemfontein and thus removed from the bustle of the city.
Feel free to see the stars.
Very friendly reception. Nice and close to the highway so we could get going nice and early the next morning.
Great service and friendliness can be expected at River of Joye. Perfect getaway for you and your family.
At very short notice, the venue was able to accommodate us and our Pekinese fur kids. The customer service was good. The grounds are stunning and so good for the soul. We might book a few days leave during the year to return for a short holiday just because it was such a pleasant experience.
It was a quick overnight stay. Everything clean and neat.
Bertha was very helpful. We didn't know that there were no restaurants close by. However, she provided meat, margarine and other necessities. She was really friendly and made us feel comfortable. The gardens and trees are a paradise and are very well kept.
Friendly reception by the hostess who also went to a lot of trouble to make us comfortable. Room was clean and well equipped.
Friendly people and helpful.
Our stay at River of Joy was really nice. The quiet atmosphere really relaxes you and the sheep that were washed in the camp in front of our door create that real farm atmosphere. Everything you need is there, your braai is nice and clean and the chalets were spacious enough for the three of us. What I would suggest might be DStv because the SABC channels are not for everyone, and the little one couldn't have enjoyed it in the evening when he couldn't play around outside like during the day. A nice getaway for a family.
The place could do with a pool. Fishing is out, everything gets stuck in the reeds. Nice lawn and lots of trees.
On the surface, everything appeared fine. We went home in the family unit. On our arrival Bertha brought us milk for the guests tray with coffee and tea. After that we made ourselves at home and found the following. In the kitchen was a.o. not a bread plate, bread knife, peeler, vegetable knife or egg spatula. The electric kettle is so covered with lime that it does not boil the water. The water in the shower runs out very slowly. The ceilings are not finished. The cement and ceiling panels are visible. We moved the bed away from the wall so we didn't have to see it every time we opened our eyes. In the unit there is a notice which, among other things, says that the unit is cleaned, but the resort neglected to say that it is not cleaned on Sundays. The electric cord for the bedside lamp was too short. We could not use the lamp.
Would recommend the place to anyone. Quiet, tidy and good value for your money. Will visit again anytime.
Was kindly received. Ablution block always clean and tidy.
It's a nice peaceful environment and you get the feeling of nature. It's just nice and relaxed!
It had been a nice place to spend the night.
A beautiful place to stay for a longer time, especially in the summer when all the green is in nature.
Please see the stars.
Nice campsite, ideal for fishing and bird watching.
We were only 1 night at River of Joy and it was very nice. Because of our travel plans we didn't arrive at River of Joy until well after 7pm, but we were welcomed with open arms and made to feel very comfortable. Will definitely make a visit there again.
Conveniently close to N1 and good halfway stop for travelers between Cape and Gauteng.
Shower is creepy because water doesn't flow out quickly. Cobwebs in windowsills. Bedside lamp and kettle not working. No breadboard. Other unit half finished and unattractive. The location is beautiful and peaceful and the owners are very friendly.
I have a photo of the disgusting 2 plate cooker they expected us to use. And subsequently replaced with an electric frying pan. The bathroom window was kept shut with cable ties, the door would not work (they made a temporary repair), the shower needed to be cleaned to remove mould in the grouting. There were no hooks or a shelf in the bathroom. Plugs did not work. TV had to be repaired. We were unable to rent paddles because they were out for the day. No office hours given. No list to fill in so that if any repairing needed to be done. At least the next guests would not suffer inconvenience. The cupboard space was laughable in the bedroom and we were there for 3 nights. They reduced our bill by R150, but it did not help us as we had such disappointment staying there. You need to go and check it out by spending a night. Never again.
We were received with generous kindness by the owners. The owner served us food that evening in our chalet and personally came to collect the cutlery later. This was a service we have not come across anywhere else!
It was really very relaxing, and we could walk under the trees. Will definitely visit them again.
Upon our arrival we were received extremely kindly. The environment was also extremely peaceful and relaxed. The facilities we stayed in were very clean and tidy. We were referred by friends to spend the night here and the experience was of such a nature that we have already recommended our friends to spend the night there too! The help from LekkeSlaap further helped to facilitate our booking so much. We will definitely use LekkeSlaap's services again in the future to find out where to spend the night!
This was the perfect stopover between the coast and Gauteng. Beautiful grass and spacious ablution. About 30 km outside of Bloemfontein, so the hosts were willing to provide us with dinner for the one night we stayed. Conveniently close to quickly get back on the N1 the next morning.
Clean room. Friendly service. Had a lovely stay.
The tranquility of the farm and natural beauty ensured that we would spend the night there.
Comfortable clean room. Very good for family with small children. Excellent if travelling with a dog - space to run and play.
Would go to River of Joy again anytime.
Very peaceful environment for the tired souls of the city. Not too far from the hustle and bustle of the city, yet soothing for the spirit.
It was nice to stay at River of Joy. It's a very peaceful place when you want to be away from the city, but with the city still easily accessible. The staff is very nice and accommodating. Nice getaway with friends/family.
Our unit is suitable for sleeping and driving, not for spending the weekend. The place is very peaceful and beautiful.
Lovely location with neat grounds. Though clean, the rooms need some work. Ceiling needs to be sealed to stop dirt falling through. The bedside light is there, but one can't plug it in, the cord is too short. They have painted, but not cleaned up properly. No light next to single beds.
A safe place to stay at.
The surroundings are beautiful, but the place appears neglected.
Our stay was very pleasant. Clean and tidy self-catering units that are cleaned every day. A very peaceful environment.
The rooms are adequate for people who are not "fuzzy". They can put a heater in the room.
Accommodation is dirty and many of the appliances are not in working order. Shower door is broken, towel rail is broken, kettle kicks out before water boils and there are an awful lot of mosquitoes.
Need a place on the way to Cape Town. River of Joy met my requirements.
The place was very good for the overnight stay of 1 night, just missed a shower in the unit we were in. Will use them again when we drive down to the Cape.
The farm and the surroundings were very nice and nice, but they will have to look at places to sleep and renovate them a bit.
Map
Rooms
Double Room
Family Room Air Conditioned
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House rules
Children aged between 1 and 18 pay 100% of the sharing rate.Double Room
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Description
The room comprises an open plan room furnished with a double bed, the en-suite bathroom is fitted with a shower. The kitchen is equipped with a fridge, zinc and a microwave. The unit has a TV, underfloor heating and electric blankets on the beds during winter.
Room Arrangements
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About This Room
Services
Bathroom
Room Facilities
Appliances
Extras
Entertainment
Price Includes
Rates displayed are on a room-only basis.
House Rules
Children aged between 1 and 18 pay 100% of the sharing rate.
Cancellation policy
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Description
The room comprises an open plan room furnished with a double bed, the en-suite bathroom is fitted with a shower. The kitchen is equipped with a fridge, zinc and a microwave. The unit has a TV, underfloor heating and electric blankets on the beds during winter.
Family Room Air Conditioned
More room/unit pictures
Description
The room is furnished with a queen-size bed and two single beds. The room has an en-suite bathroom fitted with a bath. The kitchen is equipped with a 2-plate stove, microwave and a fridge. Other in-room amenities included are a TV and electric blankets. The room has access to braai facilities.
Room Arrangements
Rates
About This Room
Services
Bathroom
Room Facilities
Appliances
Extras
Entertainment
Price Includes
Rates displayed are on a room-only basis.
House Rules
Children aged between 1 and 18 pay 100% of the sharing rate.
Cancellation policy
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Description
The room is furnished with a queen-size bed and two single beds. The room has an en-suite bathroom fitted with a bath. The kitchen is equipped with a 2-plate stove, microwave and a fridge. Other in-room amenities included are a TV and electric blankets. The room has access to braai facilities.
Family Unit Air Conditioned
More room/unit pictures
Description
The unit comprise of 2 separate rooms. The main room is an open-plan layout and is furnished with 2 single beds and has a kitchenette equipped with a microwave, a fridge and a 2-plate stove. The second bedroom is furnished with a double bed and has an en-suite bathroom fitted with a shower. Other in-room amenities include electric blankets and underfloor heating. The room has access to braai facilities.
Room Arrangements
Rates
About This Room
Services
Bathroom
Room Facilities
Appliances
Extras
Entertainment
Price Includes
Rates displayed are on a room-only basis.
House Rules
Children aged between 1 and 18 pay 100% of the sharing rate.
Cancellation policy
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Description
The unit comprise of 2 separate rooms. The main room is an open-plan layout and is furnished with 2 single beds and has a kitchenette equipped with a microwave, a fridge and a 2-plate stove. The second bedroom is furnished with a double bed and has an en-suite bathroom fitted with a shower. Other in-room amenities include electric blankets and underfloor heating. The room has access to braai facilities.
8-sleeper Family Unit
More room/unit pictures
Description
The unit comprises 2 bedrooms, the main bedroom is furnished with a queen-size bed and the second bedroom is an open-plan layout on the upper level which is furnished with 6 single beds. The unit has two and a halve en-suite bathrooms fitted with a shower. The unit has a kitchen equipped with a microwave, fridge, gas stove and a separate oven. Other in-room amenities include a TV.
Room Arrangements
Rates
About This Room
Services
Bathroom
Room Facilities
Appliances
Extras
Entertainment
Price Includes
Rates displayed are on a room-only basis.
House Rules
Children aged between 1 and 18 pay 100% of the sharing rate.
Cancellation policy
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Description
The unit comprises 2 bedrooms, the main bedroom is furnished with a queen-size bed and the second bedroom is an open-plan layout on the upper level which is furnished with 6 single beds. The unit has two and a halve en-suite bathrooms fitted with a shower. The unit has a kitchen equipped with a microwave, fridge, gas stove and a separate oven. Other in-room amenities include a TV.
The accommodation comprises 7 spacious self-catering units with private entrances.
Additional on-site facilities include a conference or function facility for up to 35 delegates.
Ideal for travellers along the N1, 25 km North of Bloemfontein in the Free State. A resting place with a view in a secure and peaceful environment.