Robert Badenhorst</a>’s Main Street art gallery. Badenhorst’s father, Francois Badenhorst, was a well-known painter and his mother, Kathy, a gallery owner. His own gallery houses an amazing array of paintings, sculptures, hand-blown glass candles and centrepieces, photography, ceramics and candelabras. So, if it’s a feast for your eyes you seek, be sure to pop in at Robert’s gallery. You might even leave with a few collectables! </p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image img-responsive\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"740\" src=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2019/07/bigstock-Clarens-South-Africa-March-236612485.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 alt=\"CLARENS_BigStock\" class=\"wp-image-54729\"/><figcaption>Image: BigStock</figcaption></figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Local gems</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"justify\">Speaking of art, Clarens is also known for its local presence all around the town, anything from pottery and leatherwork to traditional blankets. Here you’ll find one-of-a-kind vintage pieces and handmade goods to take home. <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://www.facebook.com/bibliophilebooks//" target=\"_blank\">Bibliophile</a>, a cute, local bookstore, offers a selection of fiction and non-fiction books, as well as audiobooks, travel guides, maps, puzzles, games and activities for all ages. </p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"justify\">Many of the local eateries have live music and are also family-friendly. Be sure to pop into <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://noahscheese.co.za//" target=\"_blank\">Noah’s Cheese</a>, a boutique cheesery situated on the farm Node. What started from humble beginnings in 2012 when the founder, Marietjie Crowther, received a cow from her father as a birthday present, has developed into a cheesery that has now been participants in one of the world’s biggest cheese festivals in Italy.</p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image img-responsive is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2019/07/TG-images.png?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 alt=\"Noahs Cheese Clarens\" class=\"wp-image-54723\" width=\"610\" height=\"322\"/><figcaption>Left: Chilli and herb string cheese. Right: Their signature Kashkaval.<br>Image: Provided</figcaption></figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Head in the clouds</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"justify\">Feeling romantic? Clarens has got you covered. Experience the breathtaking views and scenery of the Maluti Mountains and surrounds with a trip to the clouds in a <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://www.hotairballooningsa.co.za/Default/" target=\"_blank\">hot air balloon</a>. Suited for any occasion, like a birthday, wedding anniversary or surprise engagement, this adventure is another unmissable experience when visiting Clarens. The balloons have been colouring the air for more than eighteen years and offer an experience with spectacular photographic opportunities. Please note that this outdoor activity is weather dependent.</p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"541\" src=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2019/07/Clarens-Hot-Air-Balloon-1024x541.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-54710\"/><figcaption>Image: Provided</figcaption></figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>7. Quench your thirst</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"justify\"><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://www.highlandcoffeeroastery.co.za//" target=\"_blank\">Highland Coffee Roastery</a> is a micro-roastery that takes great pride and care in roasting 100% Arabica coffees in small batches to absolute perfection and top-notch taste. The roastery, shop and espresso bar is located in On The Square Centre, where visitors can sit, relax and unwind with a freshly-roasted and perfectly-prepared cuppa Joe while enjoying a beautiful view of Mount Horeb. There’s certainly nothing like a cup of hot Mountain Blend to kick off a day in Clarens.</p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image img-responsive\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"740\" src=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2023/02/HighlandCoffee03.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 alt=\"HighlandCoffee03\" class=\"wp-image-54735\"/><figcaption>Image: Provided</figcaption></figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>8. Stay like royalty</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"justify\">Feast your eyes on the décor and art that was carefully handpicked from all over the world. <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/accommodation/castle-in-clarens-19/" target=\"_blank\">Castle in Clarens</a> offers a royal experience for up to four people and is based on the Rapunzel fairy tale. The garden is especially designed to fit in with the fairytale – thorns trees, small pathways, and a vegetable garden. The castle’s lounge contains a small library, as well as a fireplace. Guests can prepare their braai in the Chamber of Angels, or watch the sunset behind the Maluti Mountains from the Sunset Corner.</p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2019/07/Castle-in-Clarens-1024x683.jpeg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 alt=\"Castle in Clarens\" class=\"wp-image-54712\"/><figcaption>Image: <a href=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/accommodation/castle-in-clarens-19/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">LekkeSlaap</a></figcaption></figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>9. Close to Afriski</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"justify\">Afriski is one of two ski resorts in South Africa and only a little over two hours from Clarens. This resort is located 3050 metres above sea level in the Maluti Mountains near the northern border of Lesotho. The resort is also suitable for kids. They can practice some snow skills before trying the bigger slopes and in the summertime, other activities include abseiling, mountain biking, paintball, quad biking, fly fishing and 4×4 trails which makes this destination an all-year favourite.</p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image img-responsive\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"740\" src=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2023/01/AfriSki.jpeg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 alt=\"AfriSki\" class=\"wp-image-54741\"/><figcaption>Image: <a href=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/accommodation/lolas-luxury-self-catering-accommodation/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">LekkeSlaap</a></figcaption></figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>10. Starry, starry nights</strong></h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"justify\">Accommodation in Clarens deserves an exclusive reason to visit. Synonym with the artistic atmosphere of the town, the accommodation blends in with unique finishes while keeping it comfortable and classy. </p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/accommodation/the-nelsbells-cottage/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>The Nelsbells Cottage</strong></a></h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"541\" src=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2019/07/The-Nelsbells-Cottage-1024x541.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 alt=\"The Nelsbells Cottage\" class=\"wp-image-54715\"/></figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"justify\">This rustic Victorian-style homestead accommodates six guests in the main house and two adults in the garden flat. It is a beautiful house, offering self-catering accommodation within walking distance of the heart of Clarens and is perfect for travellers looking for a small-town escape within easy reach of shops and amenities. </p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/accommodation/lolas-luxury-self-catering-accommodation/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Lola’s Luxury Self-Catering Accommodation</strong></a></h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"541\" src=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2019/07/Lolas-Luxury-Self-Catering-Accommodation-1024x541.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 alt=\"Lola's Luxury Self-Catering Accommodation\" class=\"wp-image-54714\"/></figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"justify\"><a href=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/accommodation/lolas-luxury-self-catering-accommodation/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lola’s Luxury Self-Catering Accommodation</a> offers quality accommodation for six people on their next trip to the Free State Highlands. This colourful house boasts spectacular mountain views from the patio and has braai facilities you can enjoy. The town square is only a two-minute walk away and it’s perfectly safe to venture during the day and night. This house offers luxury lodgings for weary travellers wanting to bask in the bliss of Clarens’ beauty.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/accommodation/ridge-road-estate/">Ridge Road E</strong></a><strong><a href=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/accommodation/ridge-road-estate/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">s</a></strong><a href=https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/accommodation/ridge-road-estate/">tate/n/n/n/n/n/n/n/n/n/n/n/n/n/n/n/n/n
Vast mountain views, gorgeous natural surroundings and old-world charm await any traveller seeking solace in Clarens. Situated in the heart of the Eastern Free State Highlands, this nature lover’s haven and artistic hub is certainly one of South Africa’s top tourist destinations. That’s why TravelGround is hitting you with the top spots in Clarens, giving […]
I can’t help but gasp internally each time I look at the calendar and realise that it’s December. It feels like just the other day when my family and I were running around trying to arrange last-minute Christmas meals and presents. If this time of year leaves you feeling slightly panicked thinking of crowded coastlines, […]
Turning old shipping containers into luxurious living spaces is all the rage at the moment, and it’s easy to understand why. There are several advantages to using them for accommodation purposes: They are quite affordable, employ more eco-friendly building methods, are quicker to build, and, since you can connect or combine them in different ways, […]
If there’s one thing all South Africans love even more than our Ouma rusks and Hilux bakkies, it’s a good old-fashioned braai. Sizzling coals, the smell of searing meat and the sun on our skin ─ give South Africans these things, and we’re in shisanyama Shangri-La. We’re so fond of this pastime, we’ve even given […]
Free solo climbing has always been a bit of a controversial concept in the sport-climbing world and once you’ve seen this extreme sport with your own eyes, its controversy comes as no surprise. Seeing a human vertically perched on a giant rock wall or hanging from a boulder by one hand will leave anyone with […]
Bathed in the golden light of the sun disappearing behind the horizon, everything looks dazzling. But where do you find those extra special, pristine spots to enjoy a sunset in all its glory? We live in a country that offers so many of these natural treasures, it seems almost impossible to choose! Now summer is […]
Did you know that there are 19 National Parks in South Africa? Could you name them? Well, TravelGround is here to help! Scroll down and see where you can experience the wild side of life in South Africa. 1. Addo Elephant National Park Addo Elephant National Park is a top spot for seeing African elephants in the […]
In the past decade or so, booze trends have been making the rounds ─ from the craft beer hype to the carefully crafted gin craze. Now experts are claiming rum will be the next trend that will stir up South Africa, and with good reason! Lately, craft distilleries have been adding some high-quality rum to […]
![\"Addo](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/Addo-Elephant-Park-by-Addo-Gateway-Lodge-LekkeSlaap.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"Addo")
![\"ship](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/ship-wreck-Cape-Agulhas-Guest-House.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"ship")
![\"Richtersveld](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/Richtersveld-de-Hoop-campsite-by-Gerald-dB-flickr.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"Richtersveld")
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![\"Bontebok](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/Bontebok-by-exfordy-flickr.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"Bontebok")
![\"Valley](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/Valley-of-Desolation-TG.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"Valley")
![\"Green_Turaco_by_Desiree_Haakonsen\"](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/Green_Turaco_by_Desiree_Haakonsen.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"Green")
![\"GG-Highlands-Snowcapped_Jovali_(LekkeSlaap)\"](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/GG-Highlands-Snowcapped_Jovali_LekkeSlaap.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"Snowcapped")
![\"Karoo](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/Karoo-National-Park-Chalets.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"Karoo")
![\"kgalagadi-Sunrise_over_pan_by_Pavel_Tcholakov_(flickr)\"](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/kgalagadi-Sunrise_over_pan_by_Pavel_Tcholakov_flickr.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"Kgalagadi")
![\"Kruger-leopard-game-drive-Inyati-Game-Lodge\"](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/Kruger-leopard-game-drive-Inyati-Game-Lodge.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"Kruger")
![\"Mapungubwe](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/Mapungubwe-Hill.-By-Marius-Loots-Creative-Commons.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"Mapungubwe")
![\"marakele-Woodland_kingfisher_by_Derek_Keats_(flickr)\"](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/marakele-Woodland_kingfisher_by_Derek_Keats_flickr.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"Woodland")
![\"MokalaNP-by-NJR-ZA\"](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/MokalaNP-by-NJR-ZA.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"Mokala")
![\"MountainZebraNP-rainbow-by-Leo-za1\"](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/MountainZebraNP-rainbow-by-Leo-za1.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"MountainZebraNP")
![\"Namaqualand_wildflowers_by_mmmavocado_(flickr)\"](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/Namaqualand_wildflowers_by_mmmavocado_flickr.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"Namaqualand")
![\"TMNP-Cape_Point_by_martie1swart_(flickr)\"](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/TMNP-Cape_Point_by_martie1swart_flickr.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"TMNP")
![\"Tankwa_Karoo_by_James_Verster_(flickr)\"](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/Tankwa_Karoo_by_James_Verster_flickr.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"Tankwa")
![\"West_Coast_National_Park_by_fabulousfabs_(flickr)\"](https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/"https://tvg-blog.imgix.net/uploads/2014/03/West_Coast_National_Park_by_fabulousfabs_flickr.jpg?auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80\%22 "\\"West")
