Popular: South Africa · Cape Town · OR Tambo · Dolphin Bay · Lesotho
Free State, South Africa · ZA
The 'Jewel of the Eastern Free State', an artists' and food-lovers' village
History & Heritage
Clarens was founded in 1912 after two farms were subdivided into stands, formalised by a naming commission the same year. The village was named after Clarens, Switzerland, in honour of President Paul Kruger, who died there in exile. Kruger's own link to the area runs deeper: he led a commando that defeated the Basotho at the Battle of Naauwpoortnek during the Free State-Basotho War of 1865-66.
Golden Gate Highlands National Park, 17km away, was proclaimed in 1963 and became the region's headline drawcard. Major fossil sites were found near Clarens in 2009 during construction of the Ingula Pump Storage Scheme, including a 190-million-year-old Massospondylus egg and a 210-million-year-old Antetonitrus sauropod.
Today Clarens is nicknamed the 'Jewel of the Eastern Free State', known as a writers' and artists' haven with more than 20 galleries around its village square.
Key Historical Places
The heart of the village, ringed by more than 20 art galleries and craft shops.
↑ Spend half a day browsing the galleries around the square.
A monument to five burghers murdered in the 1865 siege of Naauwpoort, moved to Clarens' town square.
↑ Ask locally for the monument's exact location on the square.
Major dinosaur fossil discoveries made near Clarens in 2009 during construction of the Ingula Pump Storage Scheme, including a 190-million-year-old Massospondylus egg.
↑ The fossils themselves are in museum collections, not visible on site.
Timeline
Must-See Attractions
35km of sandstone formations, hiking and wildlife, 20km from Clarens.
Entry from R60
More than 20 art galleries around the village square, including the Blou Donki Art Gallery.
Central Clarens
One of the country's first brew-pubs, with a range of house beers.
Rosemary Centre, 326 Main Street
A living museum of South Sotho lifestyle within Golden Gate Highlands National Park.
Inside Golden Gate NP
Zipline, abseiling off sandstone cliffs, wall climbing and quad bike tours.
531 Sias Oosthuizen Street
Accommodation
Cottage Pie Self Catering Accommodation, Clarens Exceptional 4.7/5 self catering in Clarens. 4 rooms. From ZAR 1,400/night. Property Details Type: Self Catering Guest Rating: 4.7/5 (Google, 173 reviews) Price Range: ZAR 1,400 per night Check-in: 14:00 Check-out: 10:00 Rooms: 4 Amenities Bedsitter: sleeps 3, king (splits to 2 singles) + single, en-suite shower, fridge-freezer, 2-plate...
Rooiberg View Clarens: Self-Catering Stay on Main Street Excellent 4.5/5 self catering in Clarens. 5 rooms. From ZAR 850/night. Property Details Type: Self Catering Guest Rating: 4.5/5 (Google, 295 reviews) Price Range: ZAR 850 per night Check-in: 14:00-19:00 Check-out: 10:00 Rooms: 5 Amenities Fully equipped kitchens (oven, stove, microwave) in Anki, June and Santa, Bar...
Kiara Lodge, near Clarens Excellent 4.4/5 lodge in Clarens (Golden Gate, Free State). 13 rooms. From ZAR 1,600/night. Property Details Type: Lodge Guest Rating: 4.4/5 (Google, 1974 reviews) Price Range: ZAR 1,600 per night Check-in: 15:00-21:00 Check-out: 10:00 Rooms: 13 Amenities Heated indoor pool, Body Bliss Day Spa, Maluti Melt restaurant and bar, Gym, Tennis...
Restaurants & Dining
A well-reviewed restaurant on the village square.
A popular breakfast and coffee spot with mountain views.
A seasonal a la carte country restaurant.
A Church Street landmark known for slow-cooked comfort dishes and a wine list.
Activities & Experiences
More than 20 galleries around Clarens' central square.
Guided rides suitable for all levels.
A world-class mountain biking trail network around Clarens.
An 18-hole, par 71 course at 1,818m altitude, rated among South Africa's most beautiful.
Events & Entertainment
South Africa's most beloved craft beer festival, running since 2011, with 150+ beers and live music.
A celebration of fine art, literature, music, dance and drama.
A Western Cape wine festival brought to Clarens during the golden autumn season.
Book mixed tickets and experiences for your trip to Clarens
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