If you’ve never been to Clarens, you’re definitely missing out!

Centrally located 336 km from Johannesburg, 284 km from Bloemfontein, 389 km from Durban, and even if you are traveling from Port Elizabeth (827,5 km) there are wonderful small towns on the way such as Burgersdorp with the best Guest House Accommodation and unique restaurants.

Clarens the Jewel of the Free State, is the perfect spot for your next weekend away. Clarens Accommodation is abundant and you will find many affordable self-catering units all around town. 

Below are some activities in Clarens you should definitely indulge in.

Beer Tasting at Clarens Brewery

Clarens Brewery is located in the centre of town. It’s the ideal place to taste delicious craft beers made with local ingredients. Choose from a variety of beers and have lunch while you’re there. You won’t regret it!

Discover Nature on Beautiful Hiking Trails

Clarens is a nature lover’s paradise with plenty of hiking trails to explore. There are hiking trails available for all fitness levels. For spectacular views of the Maluti Mountains, take the Maluti view trail and watch the sunrise or sunset from a vantage point.

Explore on Horseback

If you want to gallop in open fields on the back of a horse, a visit to Bokpoort Cowboy Ranch will make you feel like you’re back in the Wild West. Surrounded by rock formations and tower cliffs, you will feel the ultimate freedom of exploring on horseback. You can also book a two-day tour and sleep under the stars while soaking in the beautiful environment.

Have an Adrenaline Rush with Clarens Xtreme

If you’re looking for serious fun, why not try white river rafting on the Ash River? The tour lasts about 3 hours from start to finish and bookings include drinks and transportation.

Visit Golden Gate National Park

As you spend your time in Golden Gate National Park, you will experience cliff formations, rolling slopes, hiking trails and breathtaking views. The fresh air and the tranquillity of the natural environment provide a place of unspoiled relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 

Where to Eat in Clarens

Check out some of Clarens’s great restaurants the next time you visit. The top four are:

Clementines Restaurant & Bar

Hidden in a quiet corner of Clarens, this hidden gem offers a stunningly balanced menu, a great chef, and an impressive wine selection. Unrivalled in a wonderful atmosphere, this restaurant offers seats both inside and outside. The menu includes everything from steak to seafood, curry and oxtail. We recommend that you make a reservation in advance.

Addo’s Fine Dining

A Quiet environment serving delicious and juicy food with friendly service. Located in a lush garden, you can sit inside and outside. Like the menu, there is a wide selection of drinks. The menu includes perfectly cooked pork ribs, Thai chicken curry and a variety of vegetarian options.

Artist’s Cafe

Warm, friendly and affordable, this restaurant offers popular South African dishes such as boerewors, pap and gravy, schnitzel, and delicious chips, as well as excellent breakfast options. The menu also includes some vegetarian options. Seats can be indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather.

Sugar & Cinnamon Restaurant

If you are looking for a scenic lunch, this is the place to go! With several delicious food choices, including biltong salads, burgers and toasted sandwiches, you can expect nothing less than great tasting food at affordable prices. After enjoying a delicious lunch, you can go to the gift shop for jams and handmade gifts.