Clarens is a charming small town in the Free State, which is a mere 3 hours from Johannesburg. This makes it the perfect getaway, for a weekend or a few days, to get away from the big city and get some relaxation in and reset. Whatever it is that you like to do, I believe Clarens has something for everyone to enjoy, from late night dining to exploring the arts to quad biking and more.
And without further ado, here are :
7 Things To Do in Clarens, Free State
#1. Enjoy nature at Golden Gate Highlands National Park
The Golden Gate Highlands National Park is perfectly tucked away in Clarens, right on the foot of the Lesotho’s Maluti Mountains. This beautiful treasure is a must see when you visit Clarens.
The beautiful scenery is what draws people from Johannesburg, Durban and Bloemfontein, who are looking to take a breather from the city life and experience breathtaking views and wildlife.
If you love animals, then you are in luck. The Golden Gate Highlands National Park has all sorts, including springbok, oribi, black wildebeest, blesbok, eland and zebras.
This scenic place is perfect for a memorable hike, or some white-river rafting and so much more.
#2. Visit an Art Gallery
Clarens has some art galleries that are worth visiting.
Art lovers and collectors are spoilt for choice in Clarens, some great art galleries to check out include the Art and Wine Gallery, Blou Donki Art Gallery, Addy Hoyle Art Gallery, Essensual Art Gallery, Tobias Art gallery, Smudge Contemporary Art Gallery and more.
My personal pick would be the Art and Wine Gallery . . . what could be better than enjoying some fine wine while exploring beautiful art?
Pic: Golden Gate Highlands National Park
#3. Try out some Restaurants and Eateries
Trying out different foods in a place is what makes travelling even more beautiful, and Clarens is no exception. There are many restaurants in town that you can try out and totally enjoy.
Some of the most notable ones include Clementines Restaurant and Bar, Amigos Mexican Steakhouse, Sugar and Cinnamon, Highland Coffee Roastery, Clarens Brewery which is said to have the best beer, The Courtyard Bakery, Gosto and so much more.
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#4. Quad Biking
When it comes to fun and adrenaline, one of the best things to do is quad biking.
In Clarens, you can book an adventurers 4×4 quad biking experience and enjoy exploring the Maluti mountains.
This adventure gets you to experience the rugged terrain, and the breathtaking views of this scenic mountainous game viewing place. Just imagine seeing springbok, zebra, black wildebeest and more on a quad bike.
A must do in Clarens!
#5. Horse Riding
If you love horse riding, you can enjoy beautiful trails and breathtaking scenery on a horse.
Beautiful landscapes for you to enjoy, for both beginners and seasoned riders.
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#6. Hiking
Hiking is one of the best ways to experience a scenic route and add your physical activity in, and Clarens has some beautiful hiking spots for you to enjoy.
Some few trails to try out include the Brandwag Buttress Trail, the Echo Ravine , Mushroom Rock, Boskloof Trail which are all at the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. There is also the Clarens Valley Conservation Area, the Porcupine Trail and others to try out.
With hiking, make sure that you have enough water, and good battery on your phone, just in case.
#7 Visit the Bibliophile
Bibliophile, an adorable local bookstore, is one of the places to visit when you are in Clarens.
You can get an incredible selection of fiction and non-fiction books, some at an amazing price. They also sell travel guides, audio books, maps, puzzles and more.
If you are not into books/reading, there is a music section for you to explore, where you will find CDs and vinyls on jazz and some classical music.
The Bibliophile has have a great corner just for artists. Here you can find canvases, paints, easels, sketchpads and other art supplies.
Conclusion
Clarens has some gems, for travelers and those who are looking to explore.
“Clarens is known for its spectacular sandstone mountains and wonderful climate; it is one of the most picturesque spots in South Africa”.
Don’t sleep on this great town, take a shotleft and be opened to be amazed.
