What is Clarens
Clarens is a small town situated in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains in the Free State province of South Africa and nicknamed the “Jewel of the Eastern Free State”. It was established in 1912 and named after the town of Clarens in Switzerland where exiled Paul Kruger spent his last days.
Where Is Clarens In South Africa
General Information
Clarens is a small town situated in the Thabo Mofutsanyana region of the Free State Province in South Africa. Established in 1912 and part of the scenic Highlands Route, Clarens sits peacefully in the Maluti Mountains.
The town is predominantly a farming and art community; known by locals as the “Jewel of the Free State”. Surrounded by beautiful nature and an abundance of trees, Clarens has a gentle atmosphere. Being close to the Golden Gate Bridge, Clarens attracts tourists throughout the year, but it is during the spring and summer months that this little town comes alive.
Many of the buildings in the town have been built out of sandstone, which only adds to its charm and appeal. Clarens may be tranquil but for the adventurous, it is a delight with all the activities on offer.
Accommodation
Clarens offers visitors the chance to stay over in cozy accommodations. These facilities include bed and breakfasts, self-catering units, guest houses, and camping sites. For a complete list of places to stay in Clarens, please go to our accommodation directory.
Activities
Clarens offers tourists many outdoor and nature-inspired activities. The Qwa-Qwa National Park is a definite must-see for all tourists visiting the area. In 2005 this park was incorporated into an enlarged Golden Gate Highlands National Park.
Other things to do in Clarens include:
- Artist Amble
- Bushman Paintings
- Dinosaur Trails
- Surrender Hill
- Titanic Rock
- Quad biking
- Hiking
- 4×4
- Fly fishing
Businesses
Clarens has a thriving business community thanks to its art and farming communities. There are loads of stalls, shops, and restaurants to ensure that tourists come back to visit. Please see our business directory if you would like a complete list of businesses in the area.
Is Clarens part of Drakensberg?
| CLARENS FORMATION | |
|---|---|
| Underlies | Drakensberg Group |
| Overlies | Elliot Formation |
| Thickness | up to 300 m (980 ft) |
| Lithology |
What is Clarens famous for?
#1 Visit the Golden Gate Highlands National Park
Situated some 18 km from Clarens is the beautiful Golden Gate Highlands, National Park. Nestled in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, this national park offers visitors plenty to see and do.
Does it snow in Clarens?
Snow: Snow in Clarens is very unpredictable. The mountains around Clarens are often dusted with snow during the winter months, as are the Maluti Mountains, and given the clear skies, this makes for postcard-perfect photographic opportunities.