Clarens charms both its residents and visitors

The small eastern Free State town has many locals who tell stories of visiting and then deciding to make it their home. It's easy to see why. By Zukiswa Pikoli

- By Zukiswa Pikoli

One of the many eclectic shops in Clarens, which depends a lot on income from tourists.

(Jocelyn Adamson)

Driving to the bohemian and quaint little town of Clarens from Johannesburg offers peace of mind — first because the roads are pretty good, but also because of the farm views and majestic Maloti Mountains, which instantly have a relaxing effect.

The mountain range extends from Lesotho (Maloti is the Sesotho word for “in the mountains”) to the Drakensberg.

Arriving mid-morning on a Friday, the town felt like it was still coming to life. So we stopped at a pretty little restaurant called The Treat, situated right at the town’s entrance. With its babbling fountain, attractive garden area and big windows, I could easily see myself spending many hours there. The staff were attentive and friendly, and the food was delicious and good value for money.

About 300m up the main road is where the town pretty much centres on the four-corner green square. Lining the streets are arts and crafts shops, curio stalls, coffee shops, restaurants, an ice-cream parlour, craft beer establishments, guest houses, art galleries as well as the police station, a real estate agency and the municipal office. Wire cars and metal sculptures are displayed on the pavements.