Clarens, Thabo Mofutsanyana
Between the high sandstone Rooiberge and the Maluti Mountains, the picturesque little town of Clarens is aptly described as "The Jewel of the Free State". Clarens is situated in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains in very close proximity to the Golden Gate National Park and the mountain kingdom of Lesotho.
All year round, but especially in autumn when the leaves turn to gold, the scenery in Clarens is a magnet for artists and photographers. Several local artists have opened their studios to the public. Art galleries, a lovely church and a museum are well worth a visit. More than 50 000 beer bottles were used to build the tiny "Cinderella Castle" in Naupoort Street. Bushman (San) paintings are found on farms in the vicinity. Nearby, the panoramic Highland Route meanders along the foothills of the Maluti Mountains.
The relaxed village atmosphere and the spectacular views and mild climate makes Clarens an idyllic weekend getaway. Popular with locals, Clarens is only 3 - 3½ hours drive from Johannesburg or Durban (both of which are located approximately 300km from Clarens).
Clarens boasts excellent restaurants which are situated around the village square. Other activities include fly fishing (some of the best fly fishing opportunities in South Africa can be found in the Clarens district), hiking and for the more adventurous, abseiling and white water rafting.
Get the Scoop
Clarens Reviews
No reviews yet.
Be the first to write a visitor review about Clarens ...
Visitorials: We Love South Africa
Clarens Visitorial
I Love Clarens because ...
Featured in: Visitorials: We Love South Africa
We’ve asked those in the know to share their favourites things about Clarens. Find out where locals go for the best cup of coffee, lunch suggestions and much more. We’re letting you in on all of their secrets ... I Love Clarens because ...
Related Links
Featured Attractions in (or near) Clarens

Basotho Cultural Village
A visit to the Basotho Cultural Village which nestles at the foot of huge sandstone mountains, will give you a deeper insight into the lifestyle of the South Sotho from the 16th century to the picturesque present. On arrival, a friendly receptionist will show you an introductory video which illustrates ... more information

Clarens Golf Course
The par 71 golf course, designed and constructed by Golf Data, is bound to excite every level of golfer. All 18 holes meander along and across the tranquil river and its splendid series of dams and cascading waterfalls. The manicured Kikuyu fairways and Bent Grass Greens are framed by ... more information

Golden Gate National Park
Nestled in the rolling foothills of the Maluti Mountains of the north-eastern Free State lies the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. The park derives its name from the brilliant shades of gold cast by the sun on the park's sandstone cliffs, especially the imposing Brandwag rock, keeping vigil over the main rest camp ... more information

Sterkfontein Dam Reserve
Rugged, steep krantzes silhouetted against the skyline, mountain slopes snugly covered with a grass blanket, deep lushly vegetated kloofs and a crystal-clear lake are facets of the beauty of the Sterkfontein Dam Reserve which covers 18000 Ha. Oribi, Mountain Reedbuck and Grey Rhebuck inhabit the Sterkfontein ... more information
Related Links
Things To Do in Clarens

278 on Main
Where: Clarens
How much (per person): On Request
Since opening in December 2007, the restaurant has built a reputation for serving one of the best breakfasts in Clarens. On the menu through ... more information

Art and Wine Gallery on Main
Where: Clarens
How much (per person): Free to Browse
Anton Grobbelaar opened one of the countries most exciting Art Galleries, the "Art & Wine Gallery on Main" in Clarens. The first and only Ar ... more information
Related Links
Events and/or Festivals in Clarens
Related Links
On Holiday in Clarens
Clarens Map
Things to Do in Clarens
Visitorial - I ♥ Clarens because …
Clarens Photographs
Clarens Accommodation
Clarens Hotels
Thabo Mofutsanyana Accommodation
Thabo Mofutsanyana Hotels
Free State Accommodation
Visiting Clarens?
Also see Things To Do in Thabo Mofutsanyana or check out Things To Do in Free State to view activities by category, including watersports, sightseeing activities, arts & crafts and many, many more.
2. Search by Map
3. TGCSA Star Grading
4. AA Grading
5. Family Friendly










