About Clarens

278 on Main is situated in the quaint and picturesque town of Clarens. Known as the "Jewel of the Free State", the town of one of South Africa's best kept secret.

Tucked away at the foot of the Maluti Mountain and situated near Golden Gate Highlands National Park, the town is part of the Highlands Route. Clarens came into being during the early 1900s, right after a series of battles between Basotho and Afrikaaners. The Afrikaaners emerged victorious and the town was named 'Clarens' as a sign of gratitude to Paul Kruger. Kruger, who had contributed to the Afrikaner war effort, had spent his last exiled days in a town known as Clarens in Switzerland.

The town boasts a number of  historical sites including a monument in honour of the five burghers murdered by the Basotho on the 29th September 1865, during the siege of Naauwpoort. The architecture in the town is also indicative of its rich Voortrekker history.

Dotted with multiple galleries and  artworks, the town is an artist's haven. The tranquil ambience associated with the town has served as a muse to many artists. 

Clarens is also home to a number of prehistorical mammalian life sites. Surrounded by the Clarens Dam and Golden Gate Highlands, the town offers a perfect blend of nature, wildlife, art and crafts.