Clarens

Clarens is a quaint town in pretty surroundings and close to Golden Gate. There are lots of restaurants, interesting shops and art galleries as well as plenty of outdoor activities.

Clarens is a beautiful little town away from the city, yet not too far. Food takes a long time to arrive in all the restaurants, so don't come hungry but it's good if you know where to go. You will find friendly and helpful people. We've visited 5 times and will be back. Take a hike up the mountains or do it on horseback.

It's always a pleasure visiting Clarens!

We have visited Clarens four times and still this is one of the most wonderful places to relax! The mountains and total feel of the town with all the little shops and restaurants are fantastic! A visit is a must!

My family absolutely loved Clarens, even the teenagers! It's incredibly beautiful with the surrounding mountains and clean air, and more top class restaurants than one can eat at in a few days! We also did some abseiling and horse riding at Bergwoning and thoroughly enjoyed that! The horses are well cared for and tame enough for beginners to ride, and the instructors for the abseiling were also very professional and patient (Thys and Marsha) with our family of beginners! There is also an art studio at Bergwoning with some amazing and thought-provoking pieces. We love Clarens, and plan to visit often, as it is only 3 hours from home!

Beautiful Clarens!

The town itself is quaint and cosy and surroundings beautiful – a nice break away from the hustle and bustle. We enjoyed being able to travel to nearby places around Clarens. It's always a bit colder though than Gauteng, so go prepared!

Clarens is unique. Pity that the City Council does not have enough money to change the bulbs of the streetlights! Apart of the CLEMENTINE restaurant, the food could be better, that is why I gave it 4 and not 5 stars.

Clarens is a beautiful place to go and relax in the countryside.

Jaw dropping gorgeous! Oh my, you can't visit SA and not go to Clarens. Such an incredible backdrop of splendour, you can't help but to stare. Around each bend it's just more beautiful than the road before. Stay for a day and feel like you've been on holiday for a week. Well worth a 3 -day visit to drop into all the quaint shops, appreciate the art and enjoy a great number of cappuccinos and the warm fireplace. Can't wait to go again!

Stunning little arty town with lots to do and see! If you enjoy shopping, you’re in for a treat but with a difference. The shops have a variety of unique things. The little cafes and restaurants are varied. I had the best steak I have ever tasted anywhere in SA and my husband had the best oxtail. The stunning walks and scenery around Clarens is perfect for nature lovers. Overall, we had an amazing stay in Clarens and I have fallen totally in love with the place and will definitely be visiting again.

This town is out of character in South Africa. It feels like you are in another country when you are in Clarens. The buildings and the real pretty mountains and awesome surroundings is a lovely experience. We arrived in this pretty town for the first time during the festive season and could not believe our eyes when we arrived there for the first time. Felt like being in Europe or in New Zealand.

This is a gem not to be missed! So many fascinating little craft and art shops, with much emphasis on local products. What a spectacular setting and many restaurants to choose from offering a wide range of yummy treats. We will be back very soon

Visiting Clarens is a MUST…. My wife and I visited Clarens on the weekend of the 16th Feb 2013 and would defiantly recommend it to anyone who wants to break away for a weekend, its best to visit Clarens on a long weekend or even a week or two, there is so much to do that a weekend come to think of it is just too short. There is much to see if you are an arts and crafts fanatic, the various art Galleries and Craft shops cater for a wide variety of tastes, then there is the numerous restaurants that creates a nice relaxed and layback atmosphere. For the outdoor fanatic there is fishing, golf, quad biking white water rafting ect… Clarens provides a package deal for the whole family. We would defiantly recommend visiting the town of Clarens and we are planning to revisit Clarens in the near future.

beautifull surroundings

Its so pretty and has breathtaking views, warm people and an abundance of "things" to see. The food choices are just lovely, and the atmosphere wholesome

Clarens is a beautiful little town with breathtaking scenery! Very arty and old fashioned and the climate is wonderful! The mountains that surround the area are exquisite! Wonderful destination for a quiet, relaxed getaway from any city!

A wonderful weekend destination with a great atmosphere. The locals are very friendly and the mountains surrounding Clarens are absolutely beautiful.

Got everything you need, very nice people in the town and good asmosphere.

The surrounding mountains are picture perfect, with the drive through the Golden Gate National Park so close as well. The tranquility is amazing.......food for the soul! It is truly a place to recharge ones spirit. Mike and Lynn Mullin

What an awesome place to unwind.....never stay long enough tho.....and have never been there in their peak season... It's like another world.....everyone so chilled...... Will be back. Jimmy Parsons.

For 'timeout', Clarens is a great destinataion! Two to four nights, and you will be rejuvenated! Clarens is a tranquil haven, well worth the effort to 'get away'!

Great selection of restaurants to choose from, friendly staff and lots of outdoor activities for the adventurous and not so adventurous. Beautiful mountain scenery close by and Golden Gate Nature Reserve not to be missed.

A little gem hidden away in the foothills of the eastern free state only 3 hours from Johannesburg make it an ideal weekend getaway destination for young and old.

Clarens is a lovely place!

Wish I could stay there forever

I was in Clarens for 11 days and I would have loved to stay longer. There is much to do - eat, browse in shops, visit art galleries, swim in the dam, walk in the town or nature reserve, have coffee or lunch at the numerous coffee shops and restaurants, admire the scenery and enjoy the hospitality and kindness of the Clarens folk. A true gem.

Clarens is a wonderful we laid out town, and the only time you need your car is to get there. Quaint and interesting shops, lots of things to do from the extreme (Clarens Xtreme) to the relaxing sitting by the river and watching the world go by.

Clarens is the place I wish to retire at. Hip, happening and although busy at times, one can still enjoy peace and quiet an be one with nature!

Wonderful place to visit for either a weekend getaway or vacation. It is a safe and peaceful town with a lot of activities available to take part in.

I could happily live there.

Heaven on earth

I absolutely love Clarens, its a true gem, breathtaking mountains and a tranquil place to recharge your battery.

Small but beatiful town. People are original and very friendly. Restaurants have kept their originality, you would think you have travelled back in time to the 40's or 50's. Nothing fancy, just original. A town for retirement.

What can i say if i had money i would buy into it...

This town is on the map! I never expected such a lovely experience. Shops restaurants and lovely country. A must for a fun packed get away.

Our second trip to Clarens and it gets better every time. Peaceful, & lots to do. Spent 3 days there and every moment was filled with something new to talk about. Very friendly people all helping each other making the town tick. See you next year Clarens

Na ons tweede besoek aan clarens het ons besluit dat ons daar wil gaan aftree. Ons het sy wit wonderlikheid beleef in die winter en so pas die heerlikste naweek van sonskyn daar gehad in die lente. Daar is 'n tipiese landelike rustigheid wat mens weer innerlike vrede en sielsrus gee. Ons het met hierdie besoek ook uitgery na die golden gate nasionale hoogland ook tot in fouriesburg. Die natuurskoon is asemwegslaanmooi en laat mens elke keer opnuut besef hoe groot is ons skeppergod! die winkels in clarens bied so groot verskeidenheid items dat ek elke keer met 'n volgepakte kar terugry huis toe. Al wat regtig daar kort is 'n bloemiste en 'n karwassery! die verblyf daar is ook uitstekend en meer as genoeg om van uit te kies - ons het die eerste keer in die pragtige castello catharina oorgebly en hierdie keer het ons die wonderlike amaluti vakansiehuis gehuur vir ons familie wat ons 30e huweliksherdenking saam met ons daar kom vier het. Ek wil beslis binnekort weer daar gaan draai want ek het nog te min gesien en gedoen - ons naweke is net te kort daarvoor. Intussen adverteer ek clarens aan al my vriende en familie - hulle kan ook gerus gaan vakansie hou in die skoonste, veiligste en skouspelagtigste dorp in ons land!.

Timmerskraal bed-and-breakfast really was a home- away-from-home. We spent a lovely week-end in Clarens and Carol's warm and friendly hospitality made it even more special. The cottage is very well equiped and the beautiful garden and spectacular views made our stay very comfortable and relaxing. We will definitely recommend Timmerskraal to our family and friends! Andre and Litza Lotter, Gauteng

The mountain is absolutely majestic and takes your breath away with its beauty. However we found some of the shops expensive,and I think focused on international visitors,and not SA pensioners. We really enjoyed the scenic drives to Golden gate and Fouriesburg .Clarens is kept clean,and all the people very friendly We walked the mountain trail,and felt small in the presence of so much beauty. We will visit them again

We had the most fantastic experience on the farm Rebellie staying in the Bushman chalet. Real comfort away from home in the most wonderful surroundings

Perfect get-away from the rat race of Joburg, +-3hours. The road from Villiers through to Reitz is also good but you should be vigilant for pot-holes. Avoid travelling at night, stray cows and taxis without headlights are a given. A must is dinner at Clementines, the food is excellent and they have a great wine list - remember to book in advance. Local artists also exhibit their arts and crafts at good prices, browse around you will definately find something to bring home. For photographers, the early mornings and late afternoons are superb for photographing. A great setting is Golden Gate and the surrounding mountains of Clarens will not disappoint. Dont forget to grab an ice cold beer at the micro-brewery! Being an accredited beer taster for Heineken/Sedibeng Brewery, I can vouch for the freshness and beautiful flavors! ~ Joyce Fletcher

Lovely place to go for hiking for horse riding and for just some fun with family and children!!Worked at Maluti Lodge for a year!Wonderful people!!!!In wintertime some redwine at the fireplace excellent!!!!

It's a surprise coming upon this little piece of idyllic paradise nestled in the Maluti Mountains. Rolling countryside gives way to majestic mountains and lush weeping willows, dramatic cliffs and undulating fields, dotted with the gentle blush of cherry trees in blossom. I had expected a quiet weekend away from the hustle of the Big Smoke, but Clarens proved to be a balm for my soul. It's a little wonderworld - a different era encapsulated in a village which has a bookstore rubbing shoulders with art galleries and curio stores, where cats curl up in the comfiest chairs of stores and restaurants and rabbits hop along unconcerned in the blare of your headlights at dusk. The arty feel is incredible and having the backdrop of the mountain while browsing through the curios of Monsoon Moon is magical. I highly recommend taking a drive through to the Golden Gate National Park for some incredible landscape loveliness as well as spotting zebra, wildebeest and blesbok. Dining proves difficult in Clarens - purely because you are spoilt for choice. Dinner at Clementines is a treat and make sure you pick up some handmade chocolate and, of course, cherry jam! I am enchanted with Clarens. It's a fairytale kingdom.

Clarens is a fantastic place and whenever I/We go to the Eastern Cape we go via Clarence/Bloemfontein instead of the short route through the Transkei. We love spending time in Clarens and shop at all the wonderful shops, restaurants etc. The bikers also gives the place a different atmosphere. Will visit again very soon. Alta Gudmanz

I only visited Clarens for a short weekend, but from the moment I got there, my heart was lost. After arriving at night in a haste of a four hour drive, Friday traffic and roadworks....my mind was baffled by the total contrast I've been experiencing that day.....the calm,slow, peaceful atmosphere of Clarens. For the first time in my life I walked alone in a total strange town at night and wasn't scared for one moment. Walking around, window shopping and peering into the cheerful restaurants, restored a quiet joyfulness in my heart and an excitement of shopping for the next morning. There was a wide variety of things to explore: from the best coffees, arts & crafts, decor, vintage materials, home made baked-pleasures, art galeries, foods and the hottest chillies in town. The people are friendly and inviting and the view of the surrounding mountains are a comfort to dwell in. I cannot wait to return and explore more of the adventure and outdoor side of Clarens. A perfect place to step aside from our hastened lives, breath again and recharge.

My hart sank as we drove into Clarens. From far it looked like a peaceful place, “nestled under a mountain” as I was brainwashed by adverts to think. But today there were at least two SUV’s for every person in the bustling squire. I only managed to see glimpses of the places I wanted to visit, like the Purple Union and Donki and different galleries. Not what I had in mind. Until I saw a horse pulling a cart with a laughing family, we turned off the tarred main road and the lovely cottage, where we were going to stay, came into view. The mountain was dusted with sugar frost, the air crisp and clear. The week-enders left and I could enjoy the quiet, mid-week side of Clarens. Our host was friendly and helpful, I had the best pizza ever (and I wasn’t even hungry at the time!) and I ended up buying things I never knew I wanted. I am very grateful that Clarens doesn’t boast a well stocked art supply store, because I ended up inspired by everything I saw in the gallaries and would have spent a lot on things I wouldn’t know how to use. Clarens can do it all. Be the centre of activity and bursting at the seams, or quiet and laid back with the sense that time is moving slower for a while. Clarens didn’t win me over by it’s charm immediately. It took about fifteen minutes.

Clarens is a very relaxing and quiet town. But over weekends the town starts buzing and getting busy. It have very nice accommodation and very fine dining. A real pleasure to enjoy!

My hart sank as we drove into Clarens. From far it looked like a peaceful place, “nestled under a mountain” as I was brainwashed by adverts to think. But today there were at least two SUV’s for every person in the bustling squire. I only managed to see glimpses of the places I wanted to visit, like the Purple Union and Donki and different galleries. Not what I had in mind. Until I saw a horse pulling a cart with a laughing family, we turned off the tarred main road and the lovely cottage, where we were going to stay, came into view. The mountain was dusted with sugar frost, the air crisp and clear. The week-enders left and I could enjoy the quiet, mid-week side of Clarens. Our host was friendly and helpful, I had the best pizza ever (and I wasn’t even hungry at the time!) and I ended up buying things I never knew I wanted. I am very grateful that Clarens doesn’t boast a well stocked art supply store, because I ended up inspired by everything I saw in the gallaries and would have spent a lot on things I wouldn’t know how to use. Clarens can do it all. Be the centre of activity and bursting at the seams, or quiet and laid back with the sense that time is moving slower for a while. Clarens didn’t win me over by it’s charm immediately. It took about fifteen minutes.

One of SA best ever holiday places to stay,rest end enjoying places we ever visit. The place grow slowly buy surely on your hart and when you leave Clarens you wish the next holiday is just around the corner. We stay there for 8 days, coming from Centurion both my husband and me cannot wait to explore the place for it was our first visit ever in Clarens. What a wonderful experience we had. We enjoy the friendly people the wonderful places to visit and also the calmness effect the place give to you, just what we need after a year of work and no play, so thank you to you CLARENS we arrived home with a drive in us for the next year. Wilma Coetser

What a nice little place to stay for a romantic getaway. So many things to do, but if you want to relax, I would suggest going a bit out of town to one of the guest houses and B&B's overlooking the mountains. The restaurants and food is brilliant and I would recommend having a good breakfast at the Rotor Hahn. Their potato waffles are amazing.

I always wished I could stay in Clarens, but on second thoughts it would then take away the anticipation of finding something new. There is always something new to do and to look forward to. Plenty of nice "drinking holes"to quench the thirst whilst browsing through the shops with a huge selection of accommodation types. You decide for yourself whether you just want a relaxing break or whether you are going to do some window shopping or whether you want to pump up the adrenalin levels. One of my favourite destinations to get away from it all.

A view of the snowy mountains, a glass of gluhwein, a warm stew in one of Clarens’ many excellent restaurants, great company… This is what memories are made of! For me and my husband, a long weekend’s breakaway to the peace and quiet of Clarens was long overdue. One quickly forgets the rush of everyday life and actually feels your heartbeat slow down a little. The majestic mountains instill a sense of peace and content at just being in the moment. We switched off our cellphones, ignored any news reports and never even looked at a television screen, while we filled our days with all Clarens and surrounds have to offer. Strolling through town, visiting the many little shops and galleries, having coffee at a coffee shop, all the while being surrounded with views of the mountains, beats any shopping mall trip by a mile. Taking a trip to Golden Gate National Park, and driving through picturesque landscapes at a leisurely driving speed, unimaginable in the rush of the city. Hiking in the park up the mountain, through snow, having a bird’s eye view of the sandstone mountains and valleys while breathing crisp clean air. These are just a few of the activities on offer. Or relax with a good book, a glass of red wine and a fireplace in the company of your loved ones. Clarens is one of those small town gems that revives tired souls and leaves you with dreams of coming back for another visit!

We visited Clarens the 5 July to the 8 July I enjoyed the weekend tremendously. We went to see everything there is to see. The place is a real tourist town. The scenery is spectacular. Things to do is enough. Shops calore and very interesting. There is plenty to do and to see. Friendly town with everyone who wants to help and sell interesting things. We will definitely visit again. Naas & Amy du Plessis

What to say about Clarens. There is not one negative aspect of Clarens. It is the best breakaway anyone can ask for. From small families to big families. There is plenty of assorted places to stay in everyone's taste. From Hotels to Guesthouses to Flats. It is the most spectacular place to be. If you just want to relax or have a weekend full of fun and entertainment, then Clarens is the place to be. We as a family are absolutely crazy about Clarens. We love to visit Clarens at least 4 times a year and everytime there is new shops and accommodation. Thanks Clarens.

Romantic, Awsome, best Photography, just The place to be !!! Food, Loacal Brewery!!!! Clarens Rocks !!!!

Clarens is our "Heaven on earth" - we are regular visitors and when it is time to "clear our minds" and "reload the batteries" - there is only one place in the Free State and that is Clarens! We will be back for our 25th anniversary on the 1st of September:-)

Clarens is our "Heaven on earth" - we are regular visitors and when it is time to "clear our minds" and "reload the batteries" - there is only one place in the Free State and that is Clarens! We will be back for our 25th anniversary on the 1st of September:-)

It was me and my husbands first visit to Clarens. I never thought that the Free state could be so beautiful and breathtaking! Each little shop has something different to offer. The restaurants are cozy and unique. We stayed at Timmerskraal, and found is very relaxing, with it's nice fireplace and big garden with a view of the beautiful mountains. It was totally the opposite of the city life were use to. We both fell in love with Clarens and would like to make it our permanent home one day.

I had the most lovely time in Clarens, if you are looking for a place to unwind and stil have some fun it is a place to be. The view is just remarkable and people who stay there they are so friendly and lovely, even thou I was there for a very short time but I was able to enjoy myself and definetly plan to go again and the prices are so reasonable.

Everything!

Ons was al 'n paar keer in Clarens. Heerlik vir 'n webreek vir gesinne, vriende en paartjies. Daar is iets vir elke smaak. Die kunstige, die avontuurlustige, die stapper en die persoon wat heeltyd net aan iets wil knibbel en nuwe drankies probeer. Ons beveel dit graag aan!

Arriving at sunset in Clarens, you are greeted by a seemingly magical village of quaint restaurants, craft and art stores. The views are incredible, the food superb and the feeling of peace and tranquility is quite unexpected only 2 and a half hours from the grays of Johannesburg. Autum has so many colours, Winter is beautiful, Spring is awesome, and Summer, well summer is summer!

It always feels idyllic when I enter Clarens. It is a beautiful place that makes me want to move there in a second. It is peaceful and exiting in the same sentence. I truly love the place and recommend it to anybody that needs a change in life... - Adél Engelbrecht

Trevor and I, once visited this beautiful most unique little town Clarens. We found the people most friendly and kind. Always smiling and never failing to greet one when in town. We had an awesome time so we took our whole family along for a long weekend. We were 10 of us and enjoyed the beer festival, tennis and the restuarants. We have been back 3 times and will go back again. Not forgetting our children as well.

Love Clarens even more so in winter. Amazing scenery with snow on the mountains. Drinking wine en a restaurant with heat from a fireplace. Who needs to go Europe?

In all the years that we have been booking on Safari Now, this was the first time that we were not dissappointed with our accommodation at Rooikat Cottage, in Clarens! What you saw online was what you got, not like so many others which were really dissappointing. We had good weather while there and the accommodation was really tops! This just made our stay so worthwhile, the drives around the surrounding Clarens were very impressive and the people in Clarens are friendly and make you feel at home away from home!

Clarens - that's where you go when you want to run away from all the "hussle and buffle." We are 3 friends that often go to Clarens. We have stayed at beautiful little places there. You can leave your car at home and walk the town from top to bottom. From Art Gallery to little shop's with a difference. Lots of places to sit and eat for the hungry.... just relaxing... and you have not been to Clarens if you did not go on the hot air ballooning. The mountain splendour..... you must do it to appreciate it. The peace and tranquility is what make us go back time and again....

Whoever came up with the idea of Clarens is a genius! Although we only planned to stay over in Clarens for one night on our way home from the Northern Cape, we ended up staying for the second night. My wife and I had heard rumours of Clarens being a quaint interesting town but we were extremely surprised when we arrived and explored the town. It really is right up our alley. It ticks every box in our holiday checklist. We enjoy golf, hiking, fly fishing, art and of course fine dining which Clarens boasts all and well above average! A true jewel and we’ll be back time and again! Thank you Clarens!

Clarens is a quaint town on 3 hours away from the hussle and bussle of JHB. The fesh mountain air is relaxing and rejuvinating. Clarens is full of lovely art galleries and coffee shops. A week-end away can be spent exploring the art galleries, enjoying pancakes at coffess shops and then you can do the aventure stuff if you need a little aderanaline rush like river rafting & quad biking.

Na baie aanbevelings van vriende wat my heeltyd vertel hoe mal ek oor Clarens gaan wees, het ek toe uiteindelik 'n bespreking gedoen. Ek is vooraf gewaarsku van al die kunsgalerye, winkeltjies, dekor, lekker eetplekkies en net al die dinge waarvan ek hou, my asem gaan wegslaan. . Die Saterdagoggend kon ek nie wag om op te staan en Clarens te beleef nie, aangesien ons die Vrydagaand redelik laat daar aan gekom het, maar steeds betyds was om 'n heerlike ete voor 'n kaggel te kon geniet. Saterdag het ons die straatjies plat geloop, by die kersiewinkel aangedoen, by die bier brouery het ons al die verskillende bier uitgetoets saam met die heerlikste platters. Nog winkeltjies en nog galerye besoek. Die middag het ons 'n Quadbike roete gaan ry wat oor nege plase strek! Sjoe daarvoor was ek nie heeltemal voorbereid nie, maar wat 'n belewenis! Hier het ek eintlik Clarens op sy mooiste beleef! Om daar in die natuur tussen die sandsteengebergtes in die buitelug rond te ry en al die interressante geskiedenis van Clarens aan te hoor was 'n ervaring wat ek lank sal onthou. Na 'n lang dag buite in die natuur en lekker pootuit van al die vars lug, het ons steeds kans gesien om 'n heerlike aandete te geniet by een van die restaurante. Die Gourmet Shed net buite Clarens het al die saterdag my aandag getrek. Ek het die nommer neergeskryf en 'n bespreking gemaak. Die sondag het ons die wonderlikste middagete daar geniet, buite op 'n plaas in die Oos-Vrystaat, in 'n ou plaasskuur! Wat 'n lekker belewenis vir 'n Gautenger wat graag uit die stad wl kom! Ek het met 'n volgemoed teruggekeer Gauteng toe en my batterye heeltemal herlaai. Die hoogtepunt was beslis nie die galerye en winkeltjies nie, maar die pragtige natuurskoon en rustigheid van hierdie pragtige Oos-Vrystaatse dorpie! Ons sal beslis weer teruggaan!

This is a spectacular place to relax in. So many things to do in such little time. I would recommend it to anybody.

'n Stukkie hemel op aarde! Hartskoonmaak plekkie... 'n Plekkie waar ek kan oud-word saam met my man en 'n kat op my skoot! Jolene Peyper Vereeniging

My husband and I went to Clarens for the first time last year and were greatly surprised. We stayed at a country style B&B which had a bakery underneath and we woke up to the smell of lovely bread baking. I loved the art gallieries, especially the one that incorporates a wine tasting, what a civilised way to view art! There were open air markets and craft stalls and loads of restaurants to choose from. The Golden Gate Game Reserve was just the cherry on the top. We had afternoon tea there at the Hotel with a spectacular view over the hills. We would go back tomorrow! Rose Gilmour on Clarens

Clarens is a true getaway from busy city life. The town offers a rustic, yet funky atmosphere. I simply love the galleries and deli's. Eating places are plenty and serves deliciously prepared meals. Exploring the area was a lot of fun, and we drove to the Golden Gate reserve and visited the original African village. - Carollize Laing, Western Cape

Most cosy and expereince feeling of atmostphere during winter time where there is snow surrounding as well most accommodations installed with fireplace for romanatic moment.

Clarens is the most beautiful romantic little town I've ever been too. I can't wait to go back there. The scenery is out of this world, and the people are friendly and helpful. Hope to see you soon. Izak and Susan Jouber

Clarens is a small town situated at the foot of the Lesotho's Maluti mountains. The town has branded itself as a artist haven, and as such has attracted all manner of other things to see and do. The restaurants are fantastic and the food at various ones where delicious. The many art galleries and shops selling a myriad of things can keep you busy for days. We also took a day trip into Lesotho to go see the Katse dam, which I would highly recommend. All and all, a delightful long weekend destination.

Clarens was so calm and peaceful. It has such friendly people and views that are unlike anything you have ever seen. A great get away for family or a group of friends.

Its a great place to visit to unwind. Very refreshing style and vibe. And the drive to get there from durbs is super relaxing and scenic.

All I can say about Clarens is WOW - what an amazing place to have a romantic getaway ... to unwind totally and to fall in love again. My husband and i will definitely be going back there for more quality time. Its a place you will never forget as you will want to back to it always :)

Beautiful Clarens in the OFS O-Outstanding F-Fasinating S-Scenic

Absolutely beautiful with the town surrounded by Mountains. My stay in Clarens has encouraged me to do Oil Paintings and most reflect Clarens. Clarens in the OFS, O - OUTSTANDING, F - FACINATATING, and S - SCENIC

We enjoyed our short visit to Clarens in July. We had lovely weather, enjoyed the guest house where we stayed, as well as the beautiful town with lovely little shops and friendly people. Would love to visit again.

We thoroughly enjoyed our weekend away in Clarens, and will be back for more shopping, scenery and relaxation!

Most beautifullist town for a breakaway from everyday stress recommend it anytime of the year but the winter is the best with its snow blanket iyts like living is swiss

Our stay at Clarens was relaxed & pleasant! A lovely quaint little town with lots to see & eat! We thoroughly enjoyed the food & laid back atmosphere & not forgetting the homemade goodies! ~ Amy Pavadal & Stoil Michaylov

We just love Clarens! My husband and I have been there a couple of times and each time is more enjoyable than the last! The scenery is amazing and there is so much to do!! We will definitely be back!

Great environment and escape from the City life. Friendly town and great assistance in shops and restaurants.

Great weekend getaway and provides a fantastic opportunity to play in the snow and use all your winter clothes. Lots of quaint shops and make sure you visit the jacket shop and the pub in town.

A very quaint place and excellent for a short getaway. Good choice of restaurants, galleries and gift shops. Clean village and beautiful views.

It was our first time & we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

I would recommend Clarens for anyone who wishes to get away for a relaxing week end. The views are out of this world and the stars at night takes your breath away.

Clarens...friendly and very clean, nice shopping experience.

Had a really lovely time in Clarens, even had snow which was so pretty.

Dit is 'n regte toeriste dorpie baie aangenaam, baie winkeltjies met snuistery lekker om net weg te breek en te ontspan. Natuurskoon en berge asemrowend mooi en skoon orals. Mense baie vriendelik. Baie om te sien gallerye volop.

We loved this little hidden away town. Lots of art shops, excellent restaurants, and good beer. There are lots to do and see in the surrounding areas. We will definitely be back.

We thought is was the most beautiful place. Love the shops, people and scenery, will definitely visit again.

Very arty but shops are very pricey. Some of the visitors are SOUTH AFRICANS with SA Salaries. Not everybody can afford tourist prices in the shops

It is the most beautiful little town, will be abck to explore more. It was raining the whole weekend but it was still so nice to be there between the mountains!

Lovely place for active families, art lovers, food lovers and photographers.

It is a lovely little town, but OVERRATED! EVERYTHING is expensive!

It would be hard to find any place in our country that compares to the beauty of Clarens and the surrounding mountains! And with so many activities in and around our little town, having a break from the cities to this art goldmine, game reserves, golf estates and plenty fresh air, town with Golden Gate as a landmark, you will not find anything better!

Ons het die dorpie baie geniet, dis baie rustig en mens rus heerlik daar net met die stap deur al die winkeltjies. Die Posthouse restaurant het die heel lekkerste kos gehad!

Shops are very expensive. Otherwise we had a good time.

Relaxing, time-to-refresh-your-soul town. Spectacular views, clean fresh air. Awesome!

It was very nice to see all the art! I wish I was a rich girl to buy alot! Very clean in general. Lots of friendly people!

Very scenic with great hiking and nature walks.

Overall I loved the town, the shops and galleries. The scenery is breathtaking when driving through Golden Gate Reserve. The roads are not bad and we were able to access all the scenic routes using our car. On the negative side. Don't expect fast service in many of the restaurants, nor service with a smile.

'n Pragtige, rustige en skoon dorpie waar 'n mens werklik kan rus! A beautiful, calm and clean place where one can truly rest.

We really enjoyed the sights of Clarens; having an artistic nature, I literally felt like a sponge that could soak up all the beauty, arts and crafts. I really loved all the photo opportunities and it was nice to be around friendly and helpful people. There are many places with good food, and waiters and managers that make the effort to suit your needs. Oh, and the Clarens Brewery is a winner - definitely one of the places you must visit, and do have one of their beers, it might very well change your ideas about beer.

If you want to relax and shop, you should go here.

This is a very nice location but the shops are quite expensive.

It is always good to find a quiet period to visit. On weekends, Clarens is a bit like Sandton in the Berg. There are great restaurants and lots of galleries to view.

A bustling town ideal for getting in touch with nature and life in general. People very friendly and showing metropolitan dwellers what life should really be about.

Clarens, the jewel of the Golden Gate area and a destination well worth heading for despite it not being on most travellers' ususal itinereary. This is possibly why it is so special especially so with its fine food and art.

Pleasant and charming town with lots of cute little gift shops.

This is a lovely place to stay. People are friendly and there is a lot to see in the form of art.

Seker een van die mooiste plekkies in Suid-Afrika as jy wil gaan uitrus na 'n baie besige jaar. Ons was beindruk.

A lovely, friendly little village for a short break or to live and work or to be retired! The franchises such as Wimpy etc have been kept out and this adds to the attraction. No shortage of art galleries, restaurants, coffee shops, easy to stroll around, so near Golden Gate and don't forget a trip to Lesotho from Clarens!

Really breathtaking views, just a pity about the fly fishing that seems to have died out.

This was our first visit ever to Clarens, but certainly not the last! Shopping, restaurants, peace and quiet, arts and crafts, it has been a great experience in such a friendly atmosphere.

Loved that it is peaceful and safe. It has beautiful scenery. There are good places to eat out. Try some of the lovely walks.

A lovely little village, clean and quiet with friendly residents. The scenery is magnificent and the art and craft on display in the galleries is really lovely.

The most beautiful town in the most beautiful surroundings. Friendly, tranquil and inviting.

The scenery is stunning and the town quaint. I was disappointed by the lack of brochures in the town or any form of promotional documentation for the Cherry Festival, which should be a draw card for the region at this time of year. The Mountain Odyssey Centre had only one brochure that they could not hand out, as it was the only one they had. I loved the boutique next to the centre. The service was exceptional and the clothing interesting. I also enjoyed the restaurants.

I had a great stay in Clarens. It is such a wonderful, friendly and quaint town. It was great to amble around all the shops. The town has great food. I recommend trying one of the wonderful hikes with awesome scenery.

Set in fantastic countryside with lots of good hiking, both straight from the village and close by in Golden Gate Park. There are some good eating-out options and a great vibe, especially on the weekends. There are an amazing number of beautiful B&B and self-catering properties. The local brewery produces very tasty beer and cider and then there are the galleries...

What a great little town. The scenery is just awesome and the little shops are a real treat. A wide variety of restaurants also provide for a culinary experience for everyone.

We found many interesting restaurants and shopping was fun.

Clarens is totally stunning. You have to wake up early to catch the sunrise over the mountains, and make sure to drive through The Golden Gate National Park. This was the most gorgeous surprise of our trip.

It was a lovely, quaint little town with lots of treats for one to eat. Both restaurants that we ate at were excellent. The food was exceptional and very impressive!

Clarens is a small place but very pretty. It has several restaurants and nice shops. It is a village with its own identity.

A beautiful, quaint town. We expected Clarens to be very expensive but it is not. Thoroughly enjoyable with lots to do and see.

Absolutely amazing. Very beautiful views of mountains and nice restaurants and pubs.

Clarens is perfect for a weekend getaway from Johannesburg. With three hours driving time, it makes it a convenient destination to get away from the city to one of the most scenic areas in SA. Take a 50 km detour and arrive from the Harrismith side by driving through the Golden Gate National Park. There are not many more beautiful drives than that. It is an excellent location from which to explore the eastern Free State, the Berg, or Lesotho.

I love Clarens, it is such a lovely little town with such character and lots of great shops and restaurants.

I just never get tired of this little town. There are awesome restaurants and great little shops within beautiful scenery. What more could you ask for!

After our visit, we have decided to relocate to Clarens.

There are lovely restaurants, beautiful views, incredible art galleries and lots of shopping. It was wonderful!

This is a lovely place to spend a weekend away. We had great fun mixing shopping, eating out, hiking and generally unwinding in the very relaxing atmosphere.

This is a beautiful village with lovely and affordable arts and crafts. Golden Gate is close by and very spectacular.

We love Clarens to bits! It is so warm and friendly and we love a small town. We will visit Clarens more often. It is too bad that the houses and land for sale is so highly priced.

We love Clarens. It is a wonderful stopover when travelling to Durban to meet our friends. We enjoy walking in the mountains, and the pancakes.

Loved the town. My boys loved riding their bikes all over town while my three-year-old and I hit all the stores.

Clarens is a beautiful little town, however for the normal tourist not really affordable when it comes to a shopping spree. We still enjoyed our weekend.

The quaint beauty of Clarens is lovely, but the quality of goods offered in stores, generally, is not as I remember it eight or so years back, when the variety was such that one was kept browsing all day without lapses of boredom.

Always nice to get away from city life!

Always a winner when you just have a weekend to get away! Also lots to do in the surrounding area.

Lots to do for both young and old, male and female. Holiday and stopover en route to Afri-Ski in Lesotho.

Brilliant place not only for its setting and art, but also for gastronomy.