Caledon Gardens

How should one dress?

by Jenniflower

Luggage with wheels is always a good idea, wherever you are travelling. Some ideas:

Light coloured clothing that doesnt absorb the sun as much as dark clothing. If you're going on safari, pack comfortable walking shoes and khaki, brown or beige casual clothes.

Long-sleeved shirts and trousers will help protect you against the sun and insect bites.

Take a warm jacket for game drives; and, if you're going in summer, make sure it's water-proof.

A cap/hat that covers your head and neck.

Long socks if you are going hiking (extra protection against snakes if you come across one).

Sunglasses.

Comfortable sandals and tackies/trainers/sneakers. Sun screen (Factor 35), headache tablets (from being in the car during the sun all day, may bring on a headache), and usual little things like some plasters for blisters, Tabard for the mossies (mosquitos), cotton wool, germolene etc. Your camera, with charger, and a SOUTH AFRICAN plug extension.

Bring along the best lens you can - a zoom lens will be needed as the animals are often in the distance and may only look like tiny specks in your photos when they are developed. Have a map of the area handy, plus a local bird, flower and tree book. For this you also need a pair of good quality binoculars

This is so that you don’t get lost, plus can appreciate all that’s around you that much more.

It is not just a place to sight-see, but a place to learn from too.

Quiet but lovely

by littlebush

I was recommended to stop in Clarens by someone whilst in Lesotho
It was worth it
Only a small town of 4500 people but it has 120 guesthouses!
ITs a quiet and quaint town, maybe busier in summer, it has a beautful backdrop with the mountains and has a gentle buzz around town
Plenty of art galleries here and craft shops and a few bars and restaurants
Worth a stop over if in the area

Clarens: Spectacular Freestate!

by Jules_28

Clarens is a wonderful weekend getaway and should be a must for any overseas visitor who wants to experience the Freestate at its best! The town is tiny and very picturesque. The main square is surrounded by restaurants and wonderful shops. The surrounding area is beautiful and is filled with things to keep everyone busy. I would recommend a visit to Clarens to everyone!

Clarens and Golden Gate National Park

by cmdb

"Clarens"

Clarens is in the Free State surounded by the most beautiful mountains. It is more like a village - there are lots of artist living there and they have their own galaries. It so relaxing just to stroll around from the one little shop or galery to the next. In between the little shops you will find cosy coffee shops and restaurants. Every shop is unique - from South African art and hand crafts to our wonderful South African wines. There is a very nice galery with a wine tasting area. There is also a blanket factory. You can go horse riding, walking and hava the most wonderful drive through the Golden Gate National Park. If you see the mountains there - you can only say: "How great Thou Art"

"More pictures of Clarens"

I wish there were more place to add more photo's in order for all of you to see this beautiful little village and the mountains.

"Golden Gate National Park"

The Park has a hotel, camping area and spa's where you can relax. Helmut Lotti recorded one of his concerts in this park. You will have to come to South Africa to see the mountains in this park. These mountains are part of the Maluti mountains.

The Jewel of the Free State

by cleocat

Visiting the Free State is not very high on many tourist's itineraries.
It's very cold in winter and quite hot in summer. Though the summer seems to be shorter than in the other SA provinces. If you ever in the area it is worthwhile making a stop in Clarens. It is named after the Swiss town Clarens.

It is a small town where you will still find some dirt roads in the residential areas. A few years ago a house would have cost you next to nothing but today you are looking at a million plus.

It's a four hour drive from Gauteng and alot of Gautengers bought weekend houses.

The tranquil atmosphere, great restaurants, 4x4 tracks and tons of artist's shops and galleries lure the
city dwellers.