Clarens is every artist's muse. In the Stone Age, the San dipped their hands in vibrant pigments and recorded their lives on the region’s rock faces. Today, the town has become one of South Africa’s most picturesque destinations, where locals and travellers draw beauty from the surroundings.
GO: From Johannesburg, hop on the R712 and drive just over 300 kilometres to the foothills of the Maluti Mountains. Encircled by mesmerising slopes and scenery, discover why Clarens is known as the Jewel of the Free State.
SEE: Anchored just outside the town is Titanic Rock. Resembling the infamous ship, this geological formation is equally as impressive. Welcoming visitors to the region, the mountainous vessel hints at the trove of riches to come.
With creativity coursing through its streets, Clarens is a hub for artists and admirers. Mosey along Main Street and take your pick of over 20 art galleries. Blou Donki Art Gallery showcases contemporary pieces from the country’s leading artists, while oil paintings of the town's vibrant landscape hang at the Addy Hoyle Gallery.
Journey to where it all began at Schaapplaats Farm, where caves feature over 35 specimens of San rock art. These masterpieces were painted more than 2 000 years ago, revealing humankind’s early beginnings.
DO: Home to some of the country's top trout-fishing spots, Clarens is the perfect place to cast out your line. Take a swing at fly-fishing beside the Ash River, or sit back and wait for a nibble at Sediba Lodge’s tranquil dam.
Discover everything from tasty delights to treasure at Bibliophile’s market. This weekly gathering boasts the area’s greatest finds, including seasonal fruits and precious antiques.
Blend in with locals at the Highland Coffee Roastery. Here, coffee-lovers can relish flavours from four continents while admiring the view of Mount Horeb.
At Bossie Knives, Fritz and Yolande Boshoff keep the ancient art of knife-making alive. Forge your own blade from scratch, or purchase one of their handcrafted tools which are ideal for slicing biltong.
There’s more than meets the eye in Clarens. Uncover its hidden wonders and be inspired to sharpen your creativity.
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