If you have been to the many well-visited destinations across the rainbow country (South Africa), there is a path that is less traveled yet pristine. It is Clarens in the Free State Province. There, mother nature and man await your visit for a memorable indulgence, writes OBINNA EMELIKE who visited the tranquil town recently.
“If Clarens cannot offer you the moon, it promises you a little slice of heaven on earth”, that was one catchy statement I read online while searching for available offerings at Clarens before my visit.
But on stepping my feet on the soil of Clarens, I have more than enough testimonies to tell, especially of how beautiful mother nature is in this serene leisure enclave that is tucked in the firm protection of towering mountains with constant smiles from surrounding nature.
What strikes me most was the entrance of the peaceful town. Titanic Rock, a huge rock, stands sentry to welcome visitor. The uniquely shaped rock forms part of Clarens history as it was named by a resident after the Titanic Ship tragically sunk due to its remarkable resemblance and being shaped like the bow of the ship.
Just driving past the welcoming huge rock, an unspoilt aura greets, as well as, the alluring ambiance as you keep moving further into the town.
At this early point, I remember telling myself that you are really in for a slice of heaven on earth though the moon is closer from atop the towering mountains.
It is only when you drive further in that you will discover that the town is tucked in a valley and is truly set on foothills of the Maluti Mountains, which range far into Lesotho kingdom.
However, its geological and architectural features are pleasant to eyes. From a closer look, you will discover that the town is built on sandstone formation as buildings seem to be perfectly fixed on the foundation without destroying mother nature within. This local architectural prowess makes it possible for every building to have a picturesque view of surrounding mountains and undulating landscape, which combine as natural therapy and indulgence with nature.
From any angle of the town, the Maluti Mountains and other mountain ranges are very visible.
The uniqueness of the town is its zero percent crime rate, a feat locals attribute to communal living, fewer population and relatively job security for the locals. As one local said, “We know members of this town by name, and we also know that you guys are visitors”. I am surprise hearing that but discovers it is fact when we go for an evening strolling in the town.
As well, hospitality offerings abound in the peaceful town- from guest houses, golf estates to hotels. But my stay at Protea Hotel Clarens is very memorable. I tag the 70-room hotel managed by Marriot International as ‘hotel with 70 views’ because each of the 70 rooms has a panoramic view of the mountains. Guests wake to with a warmth of mother nature.
The hotel is truly a magical venue with many world class facilities, especially outdoor swimming pool just overlooking the mountains. Of course, the locals eat out a lot, hence there are many world class restaurants that cater to the dining needs of both locals and visitors.
Besides its hospitality offerings, Clarens has lots of exciting leisure and extreme activities for visitors despite the age and interests. For younger visitors who love adventure, a visit to Clarens X Treme for adrenalin rush activities, especially zip lining is worth your day.
The Claren zip lining is my first experience as Oliver Esplin, the owner of the Clarens X Treme, assures, it is fun zip lining on the four lines (170m, 162m, 150m and 148m slide) through the trees across a little valley. It is great experience taking pictures with the zip lining gears and by the Clarens window just overlooking the mountains to cap the whole fun.
If you are more adventurous, Clarens X Treme has more on offer. White water rafting in the crystal clear waters of the Ash River known for its exciting grade 3 and 4 water rapids all year round is the ultimate adventure for me. As well, it is my first time experience, and it is not funny as we have many near-boat-capsize experiences, but we manage to stay afloat, while I also see some boats capsizing few yards from ours. Kenny, our boat rider and guard, kept telling us that the boats capsized because the occupants did not obey the guard’s instructions and that ours will face same fate if you refuse to obey him. It is the highest adrenalin rush I have ever witnessed, especially at grade 3 and 4 water rapids where one can hit head on rock when boat capsizes. Our team of six riders and a guard celebrate on crossing the grade 4 water rapid with the clicking of our paddle sticks. But it is not funny as we hardly notice the presence of wildlife along the river bank because of the adrenalin rush.
Other exciting activities include hot air ballooning, 4X4 trails of the bush paths, abseiling, but mountain hiking is a reserve of lovers of the extreme adventure and must be well-kitted for it.
Leaving the extremes for younger visitors, older visitors and those who like it cool can enjoy the fresh air in Clarens, sunbath, take leisure walk along the green walkways, go fun fishing, horse riding or cool the nerves at Clarens Spa, a few yards from Protea Hotel.
Beyond all these exciting activities, the history of Clarens is exciting as well. It was established in 1912 and named after the town of Clarens in Switzerland where exiled Paul Kruger, former president of South Africa, spent his last days. Even from its location, 336 km from Johannesburg, 284 km from Bloemfontein, and 389 km from Durban, Clarens is very accessible from across different provinces in South Africa.
But the selling point remains that Clarens carters to those looking for both leisure and the extreme, and this makes the peaceful town the true Jewel of Free State Province.
Of course, Clarens beckons for an adventure any time, and any day for cool, moderate and extreme fun lovers. Visit to experience a little slice of heaven on earth!
