"Situated in the Eastern Free State, between the towering Rooiberge and Maluti Mountains, Clarens is one of the most treasured small towns in South Africa. Affectionately nicknamed the Jewel of the Free State, it is popular with art lovers, adventure-seekers and history buffs.

It is a place where jaw-dropping rock formations are commonplace, the verdant countryside seems neverending and dinosaurs once roamed the land. In fact, Clarens is one of the few places in Southern Africa where you can view real-life dinosaur fossils. More than 200 million years old, numerous prehistoric remains were discovered at a nearby construction site in 2009.

The substantial list of things to do in Clarens includes white water rafting along the Ash River, exploring the beauty of the Golden Gate National Park, hot air ballooning and ziplining across a lush valley. For the more leisure-inclined visitor, Clarens boasts a thriving art scene, numerous boutique and craft shops, and an 18-hole golf course. One thing is for sure, you'll never be shy of ways to keep entertained while on holiday in this cosy town."