Clarens is not just another small town on the map that people hardly notice, or drive through and think ghost town, because picturesque as it maybe, there’s a lot to keep you occupied. The town is not only the art but the adventure capital too with all its Clarens activities that range from leisurely to extreme. There’s White water rafting, Golf, 4X4 trails, Hiking, Hot air ballooning, Abseiling, Horse riding and Fishing to name just a few.
All Clarens activities that take place in and amongst the many trees that change colour with each new season, the pristine rivers and streams and the towns famous and majestic Maloti mountain and Rooiberge that this ‘jewel’ of a town in the Eastern Free State is known for. A water sport to try in the town is 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 that aren’t rain-dependent.
There’s also fishing in the town’s still waters with the Caledon River accessible in places to streams fishers. Fly fishing is recommended in the Ash River and for what Clarens is acclaimed for, the best Trout fishing spots in South Africa there’s Sediba Lodge and a well-stocked dam situated next to the prestigious Clarens Golf and Trout Estate. An Estate that also offers another of the firm favourite Clarens activities, Golf, spend time leisurely enjoying the scenic views of nature as you tee off on the lush green lawns of this country-style 18-hole golf course.
Clarens is also considered a spectacular horse riding town. Experience the thrill of clean air in your face as you go horse-back riding, galloping in the open landscapes and mountains at Bokpoort Horse Back and Holiday Farm and Schaaplaats Farms. Or go high, up, up and away into a hot air balloon, you can do this at Hot Air Ballooning SA in Clarens or maybe you want to go Hiking at Swartland. Where you can hike up the back of a 50m sandstone rock cliff overlooking Clarens or a vertical drop at the front for those interested in Abseiling, climb off a mountain down a rock, fitted into a rock climbing harness. No strength required from you to hold your weight and a guide is also there to have control over your descent ensuring you’re safety
While Clarens activities for 4×4 trails can be enjoyed at Bergwoning found 15km from Clarens close to the mountains of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. The one trail is a 6km, self-drive, family-oriented scenic trail that takes about two hours. While the other is a guided adventure trail of 26km, four to seven hours led by the owner of the establishment.
