Clarens
Description
At the foothills of the towering Maluti and Rooiberg Mountains you will find the village of Clarens, aptly described as the "Jewel of the Free State". Lush trees and long days of sunshine make this a worthwhile destination. Popular activities include reptile shows, fly fishing, hiking, horse riding, and 4x4 adventures. Enjoy a magical stay at one of our Clarens accommodations.
This beautiful Free State town lies close to the Golden Gate National Park and is an ideal stop over on a journey to the mountain kingdom of Lesotho. Well known for is crisp, clean air and warm hospitality, Clarens is rich in beauty and has a permeating aura of peace and tranquillity. The town is gifted with more trees than most other Free State towns. The colourful fruit tree blossoms paint an unforgettable picture in the spring, while the brilliant kaleidoscope of colour entices countless artists, photographers, and nature lovers in the autumn.
Clarens is an artist’s haven and a growing artistic community has taken root here, drawn by the picturesque scenery and architecture. There are many art galleries and craft shops around the village square that offer visitors the chance to take home unique curios and original artworks. President Street has a more affordable collection of stores that offer everything from pottery, to candles, and gift shops. The sandstone buildings are a defining feature of the village and add to the picturesque atmosphere. These architectural structures are both fantastic to photograph and cosy to stay in.
The tranquil village ambience, scenic views, and mild climate make Clarens an ideal weekend getaway for city dwellers. Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, and Durban are all approximately 300km away. Many visitors make the 3 -4 hour drive to escape the stresses of city life and indulge in some rest and relaxation at one of the meditation and wellness retreats that Clarens has to offer. When combined with the serene countryside, organic foods, and fresh air, you will be left feeling calm and rejuvenated. The drive itself is incredible scenic, taking you past expansive farmlands dotted with windmills, endless horizons that are broken by the occasional koppies, and fields of cosmos in the spring. Many of the farms in the area have fragments of bushman art that are well worth seeing for their cultural insight.
The nearby Golden Gate National Park has game drives where you can spot wildebeest, blesbok, eland, zebra, and even a wary bearded vulture. Alternatively, you can engage in a fossil hunt to discover age old dinosaur bones, teeth, and eggs. The waters around Clarens offer the best trout fishing in the country and attract anglers and fly-fishers from far and wide. The mountains are an attraction of their own and offer incredible hiking trails and abseiling where you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the beautiful landscape. Archery, 4x4ing, horse riding, and golf are also offered in the area.
As jy in Afrikaans wil bespreek, kan LekkeSlaap jou help. Soek vir Clarens akkommodasie.
