Clarens is fast becoming the new hangout for weary Gauteng executives and tired city crawlers choosing this as their retirement spot. In and around Clarens you will find dozens of art galleries and craft shops selling everything

from socks to carpets, often made by the local population. The area also offers adventure activities such as trout fishing, abseiling, bicycling, horse riding and some excellent short and long hikes.

The little town of Clarens is an excellent example of what initiative and will-power

can achieve in becoming one of the leading tourist destinations in South Africa. For years this beautiful area was the closely guarded secret of a select few, but the secret is out and Clarens is actively encouraging visitors to come to the village, soon to become a town. The roads infrastructure is great, with some excellent and safe biking routes throughout the whole area. Many bikers reckon the road from Clarens to Fouriesburg with its long sweeping turns and twisties is the best, whilst others argue that the Lichens Pass in Golden Gate is the one. In terms of routes to ride the area is close to the Free Sate and KwaZulu Natal Drakensberg area, and a stone’s throw away from Lesotho. Accommodation ranging from self-catering to all-inclusive lodges and guesthouses and hotels has made this a sought after destination. For years motorcyclists in limited numbers visited Clarens and it is only recently that it’s true potential is being discovered by all kinds of bikers, ranging from the adventure crowd, the touring fraternity and the quad bikers looking for a good time on many of the various trails in the area. The town has an almost flea market like atmosphere with restaurants,

pubs and arts-and-craft shops around every corner. The town has an interesting history and was established, quite oddly at the time as a private

development in 1912.

Clarens

Caledon Gardens Country Lodge

If you have never ridden on the road between Clarens and Fouriesburg in the Eastern Free State, then I suggest that you do so very soon. Not only does this road lead to the  Caledonspoort border post that takes you into Lesotho, but also shows you some of the most beautiful and dramatic of landscapes the Eastern Free State has to offer. Winters here can be bitterly cold, whilst summer can dish up gloriously pleasant days. Snow is not an unusual occurrence in this part of the world, so if you are planning on visiting during the winter months consult first with the locals. Having said all this, imagine a spectacular motorcycle friendly establishment smack bang in the middle of all this. Caledon Gardens Country Lodge is a romantic country retreat situated between Clarens and Fouriesburg on a farm overlooking the Maluti Mountains, and Lesotho. They’ve been hosting the Classic Dirt Riders national event every year, with the last one in 2009 taking place in September. They also have a motor cross and enduro track on the farm, which is used by all off road bikes.  There is a 4 km gravel road to reach their establishment, the condition of this stretch of road depends on what weather they’ve had.  They are a four star and AA Highly recommend establishment and also have camping and caravan facilities. The gardens are absolutely spectacular, and the old sandstone main-building will take you back on a journey of years gone by. Comfortable accommodation, excellent food, friendly hospitality from  your hosts Mike & Sharon.  

Directions to Caledon Gardens

"Caledon Gardens" is a romantic country retreat situated in the unspoiled Caledon Valley, next to the Royal Maluti Golf & Country Club, in the magnificent Eastern Free State Highlands, between Clarens (The art Mecca of the Free State) and Fouriesburg (20 km from each) and only 4 km off the R 711, one of the most scenic roads in the country.

The co-ordinates are: Lat.: 28 40'17" S; 28 22'01" E

Clarens - Culture vulture hang-out & motorcycle heaven