Clarens, situated in the eastern Free State, is fast becoming a great incentive destination for small to large groups. Elephants in Main Street offer excellent incentive programmes, in particular, their personal ability team build; Mission Elephant programme. It takes place over two and a half days and includes an overnight stay in a cave as well as a hike in the Drakensberg Mountains.
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On a recent trip to Clarens, I was overwhelmed by the charm and character of this little town. We were particularly impressed with Sir Henry's, the lovely bed and breakfast guesthouse that we stayed at, situated not far from the main centre of Clarens
This original house dates back thirty years and today it is a fine establishment owned by Jeanne Potgieter. It has five romantic sandstone garden suites (which accommodates ten people) - each with its own special character; fireplace and quaint en suite bathrooms. Guests can expect a cuisine sublime breakfast, prepared with flair by Pieter, the manager-cum-chef of Sir Henry's.
A very appealing attraction in Clarens, is its numerous sandstone buildings. The use of sandstone as building material in the eastern Free State dates back to the beginning of the nineteenth century. The early settlers became skilled stonecutters as well as accomplished stonemasons. The present boom in the property development in Clarens has brought sandstone back into fashion, which has simply added more charm to this lovely town at the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains Golden Gate National Park.
Clarens has become a mecca of art galleries and craft shops as well as fine restaurants. The attractive part about visiting Clarens is the fact that one can walk everywhere. On every corner of the square, in particular the main road, there are interesting shops and coffee houses that are situated in quaint early nineteenth century sandstone buildings.
Moerdyk Coffee shop is situated on the main road and hosts an art gallery as well as a charming veranda where one can enjoy delicious homemade cakes. It is the place to be on a cold winter morning when the sun decides to peek out. Situated right next door to Moerdyk is one of the prettiest churches in the Free State.
Clementine's is a little more upmarket and a favourite among visitors as well as locals. The food at this restaurant is outstanding, but the service is extremely slow - however, it gives one the opportunity of drinking more red wine to warm oneself on a cold winter's night.
Since Clarens is known for its very low temperatures during the winter months, spending a weekend at Sir Henrys gave us the ideal opportunity of dressing up warmly before venturing out, and then returning to a glorious log fire in the comfort of our own suite. The glass of complimentary sherry was par for the course before tucking into a heated bed!
To book at this establishment, click here.
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