10 Things to do in Clarens

Your first visit, beautifully curated.

Clarens has a way of slowing you down β€” sandstone mountains, crisp air, independent shops, long lunches and golden light.

If this is your first visit, start here.


1. Hike the Mountains

πŸ₯Ύ Clarens Village Conservancy

Explore marked trails with panoramic views right from the village edge. Routes vary from gentle walks to more challenging climbs.

πŸ“ Clarens, Free State
🌐 https://clarensvillageconservancy.com/hiking/


πŸ”οΈ Golden Gate Highlands National Park

Just 20 minutes away, dramatic sandstone cliffs and sweeping landscapes make this a must. Ideal for hiking, photography and game viewing.

πŸ“ Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Free State
πŸ“ž +27 58 255 1000
🌐 https://www.sanparks.org/parks/golden_gate/tourism/activities/hiking.php


2. Breakfast on the Square

🍳 Limoncello Restaurant

A relaxed setting perfect for an indulgent breakfast before exploring.

πŸ“ 326 Market Street, Clarens
πŸ“ž +27 58 256 1224
🌐 https://leisurexcursions.co.za/


β˜• Artist’s CafΓ©

A long-time favourite for coffee, light breakfasts and people-watching.

πŸ“ The Square, Clarens
πŸ“ž +27 58 256 1193
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/TheArtistsCafeClarens/


3. Browse Independent Shops & Galleries

🏑 Clarens Interiors

Curated dΓ©cor, sculptural artichokes and interior consultation by appointment.

πŸ“ 279 Main Street, Clarens
🌐 https://clarensinteriors.com/


πŸ“š Bibliophile

A treasure trove for book lovers β€” rare finds and quiet corners.

πŸ“ Church Street, Clarens
πŸ“ž +27 83 303 8911
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/bibliophilebooks/


4. Dinner to Remember

🍷 The Square Clarens

Lively atmosphere with hearty meals and mountain views.

πŸ“ The Square, Clarens
πŸ“ž +27 58 256 1255
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/The-Square_Clarens-179461920358982


🌿 Clementines

Elegant dining with a refined seasonal menu.

πŸ“ 325 Market Street, Clarens
πŸ“ž +27 58 256 1234
🌐 https://www.clementines.co.za/


🍝 Bocca Di Lupo

Authentic Italian flavours in a cosy setting.

πŸ“ Clarens
πŸ“ž +27 83 289 8358
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/boccadilupoclarens


5. Do Something Unforgettable

🎈 Hot Air Ballooning SA

See Clarens and Golden Gate from above β€” sunrise flights are pure magic.

πŸ“ Clarens
πŸ“ž +27 83 440 7445
🌐 https://www.hotairballooningsa.co.za/


⚑ Clarens Xtreme Zipline

For thrill seekers β€” glide across dramatic landscapes.

πŸ“ R711, Clarens
πŸ“ž +27 72 207 3633
🌐 http://www.clarensxtreme.co.za/activities/zipline


6. A Leisurely Luncheon

🍺 Clarens Brewery

Craft beer, relaxed lunches and mountain air.

πŸ“ 326 Market Street, Clarens
πŸ“ž +27 58 256 1198
🌐 http://www.clarensbrewery.co.za/


πŸ₯– The Courtyard Bakery & Deli

Artisan breads, light meals and soft serve ice cream under a tree on the Square.

πŸ“ The Square, Clarens
πŸ“ž +27 58 256 1500
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/courtyardclarens/


7. Relax & Restore

πŸ’† Clarens Wellness Day Spa

Full wellness treatments in a tranquil setting.

πŸ“ Clarens
πŸ“ž +27 58 256 1374
🌐 http://www.clarenswellnessdayspa.co.za/


πŸ§– Ill Castello Spa

Luxury spa experiences within a country estate atmosphere.

🌐 https://www.leisurexcursions.co.za/spa-il-castello


🌿 Body Bliss Day Spa at Kiara Lodge

Mountain views and deep relaxation.

πŸ“ Kiara Lodge, Clarens
πŸ“ž +27 58 256 8000
🌐 https://www.bodybliss.co.za/kiara-lodge.html


8. Take a Scenic Road Trip

πŸš— Golden Gate Drive

Visit the Kgo Dumo Dumo Dinosaur MuseumΒ 

🌐 https://www.sanparks.org/parks/golden_gate/tourism/activities/game_drives.php


πŸ₯ž Sugar & Cinnamon

Famous pancakes worth the stop.

πŸ“ Clarens
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/Sugar-and-Cinnamon-Restaurant


πŸ§€ Baris Monger & Deli

Artisan goat’s cheese and local delicacies.

πŸ“ R711 between Clarens & Fouriesburg
🌐 https://www.baris.co.za/

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9. Swim & Cool Off

🏊 Protea Hotel Clarens

Pool access with mountain views.

πŸ“ Clarens
🌐 https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/fitness-center/fcbcl-protea-hotel-clarens/

🌊 Glen Reenen Rock Pools

Natural pools within Golden Gate.

🌐

https://www.sanparks.org/parks/golden_gate/tourism/activities/swimming.php


πŸ’§ Clarens Kloof Dam

Peaceful picnic and swimming spot.

🌐 https://clarensvillageconservancy.com/hiking/


10. End Your Day at Highland Brew

🍻 Highland Brew

Mountain views for days, relaxed atmosphere and good company.

πŸ“ Clarens
🌐 https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551831307861

Image suggestion: Sunset drink with mountain backdrop.



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https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551831307861