PARYS, popularly known as the gateway to the Vredefort Dome, hides a traveller's treasure simply known as Dome Inn. This is a truly versatile venue for all types of tourists.

Legend has it that the town's name is the Afrikaans translation of Paris and is a moniker given it by a German because it reminded him of the French capital on the River Seine.

Parys is in the 5km buffer zone of the Vredefort Dome World Heritage Site.

According to tourist information, Parys along the Vaal River, abounds with exotic birds and wildlife - such as iguanas.

The town also boasts tree-covered islands that have have been developed into pleasure resorts, offering boating, fishing, swimming, powerboating and skiing.

Dome Inn is situated just across the Vaal River and on the north-west side of this picturesque Free State town's slightly serene side.

Dome Inn's initial sighting can disappoint a city slicker because of its old farmhouse appearance.

But it is on entering the establishment's accommodation, conferencing and entertainment areas - especially the bar - that you will fall in love with the inn's old-world charm.

The unusual garden furniture includes disused wheelbarrows that serve as giant flowerpots as well as decommissioned wagons, some reminiscent of the era of the Great Trek, as well as rusted agricultural tools.

Architectural aesthetics here are staid, matching the laid-back nature of the family running this venue. Deon and Ester Pretorius and their son Shaun are "ably assisted" by several nieces, nephews and grandchildren, giving the place an almighty buzz.

Getting to Parys is easy. A mere one to two hours' drive from Pretoria and Johannesburg, Dome Inn offers an affordable time out in these lean, gas-guzzling times.

Its most attractive feature is its family and children friendliness, while also catering equally for action loving, adventurous and free-spirited singles, couples and groups.

Take me as an authority of sorts, after having spent several successive weekends at Dome Inn and having sampled both the bungalow and the multi-sleeper rooms.

Significantly, the Pretorius family try their utmost to stay out of the hair of the guests, unlike at the conventional hotels, where you are roused for bed-turning, evening chocolates, housekeeping chores and so many other reasons.

This establishment is a real winner with jaded city types looking for real breathers.

Dome Inn offers 11 guest rooms, six rondavels and three bungalows on three acres of land, dotted with trees and gardens.

The rooms all have television sets, ceiling fans and electric kettles (with tea and coffee).

Fridges and microwave ovens are available on request.

As if that is insufficient, private beings can use self-catering kitchens, fun-loving types can hire bomas, caravans or tents while groups of up to 10 can choose between the rondavels, bungalows and the aptly-named caravan Dome Inn (a notably huge group sleeper).

Weddings are catered for in the Dome Inn's fine chapel and its peaceful grounds.

The place also boasts a compact conferencing joint. The restaurant, with bar, is warm and accommodating.

Doting moms and dads will enjoy the kiddies' play area.

To give Dome Inn your own test drive, you can phone 056-818-1577, fax 056-818-1698, cell 072-318-9950, e-mail lodge@domeinn.co.za, domeinn@parys.co.za or visit www.domeinn.co.za