By Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe
The first hint that you are leaving the city behind appears somewhere after the last cluster of Johannesburg suburbs fades into open Highveld farmland. The traffic thins, the air sharpens and the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid settles into a smooth, quiet rhythm on the N3. Ahead lies a three-and-a-half-hour drive to Clarens, one of South Africa’s most loved small-town escapes.
Clarens sits in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains in the eastern Free State. Often called the “Jewel of the Free State,” the town has built a reputation as the perfect weekend retreat for travellers who want a little culture, a little nature and plenty of good food.
The Road Trip Car
For this journey, the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid proves to be an ideal companion. With a starting price in South Africa from roughly R494,000, the compact SUV blends practicality with comfort.
The boot offers enough space for weekend luggage, hiking gear and a few purchases from Clarens’ art galleries. On the open road the hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel efficiency, which means fewer fuel stops and more time enjoying the scenery. Long highway stretches feel relaxed thanks to comfortable seating and a smooth ride.
One of the Cross Hybrid’s underrated strengths is its elevated ride height. The ground clearance is just enough to handle gravel farm roads or the occasional detour without worry. For travellers who want a reliable and comfortable road trip vehicle, it ticks all the right boxes.
The Route
The journey from Johannesburg to Clarens takes roughly three hours and thirty minutes via the N3 and R712. Many travellers like to stop in Bethlehem for coffee or fuel before the final stretch into the mountains.
The last part of the drive is the highlight. As you approach Golden Gate Highlands National Park, the landscape transforms into rolling grasslands and dramatic sandstone cliffs. The winding road into Clarens is one of the most scenic drives in the Free State.
Three Reasons People Visit Clarens
Clarens has mastered the art of the relaxed weekend.
First is its thriving arts culture. The town is home to numerous galleries featuring local painters and sculptors. Walking through the village square feels like browsing an outdoor exhibition.
Second is the surrounding scenery. The nearby Golden Gate Highlands National Park offers breathtaking hiking trails and viewpoints that look out over sweeping mountain valleys.
Third is the food scene. Despite its small size, Clarens has an impressive number of cafés, bakeries and restaurants, many centred around the town square.
Where to Stay
High-End Stay
Clarens Country House offers luxurious countryside accommodation just outside town. Rooms start around R2,400 per night. The views of the Maluti Mountains alone are worth the stay. Phone: 058 256 1224 Instagram: @clarenscountryhouse
Family-Friendly Stay
Clarens Inn and Backpackers is a popular and affordable option in the centre of town with rooms from about R750 per night. Phone: 058 256 1140 Instagram: @clarensinn
Where to Eat
Signature Dining Experience Clementines Restaurant is widely regarded as one of Clarens’ best dining spots. Expect creative dishes and excellent local wines. Main courses range from R180 to R320. Instagram: @clementinesclarens
Casual Local Favourite The Courtyard Café is ideal for breakfast or coffee after a morning walk. A hearty breakfast costs around R120. Instagram: @courtyardclarens
Weekend Activity
A visit to Golden Gate Highlands National Park is essential. Entry to the park costs approximately R100 per person. Scenic drives and hiking trails reveal dramatic sandstone formations and wildlife.
The Instagram Moment
The viewpoint along the R712 just outside Clarens provides a sweeping panorama of the Maluti Mountains. Sunrise and sunset here create spectacular photographs.
Famous Citizen
Clarens has strong ties to South African jazz legend Hugh Masekela, who spent time in the region and often spoke about the beauty of the Free State landscapes that inspired his music.
Business Pulse
Clarens has become a small but vibrant tourism economy. Boutique accommodation, art galleries and food establishments drive the local economy. For entrepreneurs in hospitality or lifestyle retail, the town continues to attract visitors year round.
The Drive There
Road conditions are generally excellent. The N3 highway is smooth and well maintained, while the R712 into Clarens offers scenic curves and mountain views. The Corolla Cross Hybrid handles both sections comfortably.
Weekend Itinerary
Day 1
Morning: Depart Johannesburg early and stop for coffee in Bethlehem.
Afternoon: Arrive in Clarens and xplore the art galleries.
Evening: Dinner at Clementines followed by drinks around the town square.
Day 2
Morning: Drive through Golden Gate Highlands National Park.
Afternoon: Lunch at the Courtyard Café before the return trip.
Local Secret
Locals recommend the short walk along the Clarens Village Conservancy trail behind the town. It offers quiet views of the mountains without the crowds.
Tourist Office
Clarens Tourism Forum
Phone: 058 256 1817
Website: www.clarenstourism.co.za
Instagram: @clarens_tourism
