Chalet Thabela & Chalet Phomosa

Self Catering in Clarens

Description

Situated within the secure and private Larola Chalets complex, Chalet Thabela and Chalet Phomosa are just 2 kilometres from a wide range of galleries, restaurants, cafes and curio shops in the village centre.

Known for its spectacular sandstone mountains and wonderful climate, Clarens is one of the most picturesque spots in South Africa, justly deserving the title “Jewel of the Free State.” The chalets are adjacent to each other and can be booked separately or as a pair. Each accommodates one or two people.

With two exceptional golf courses, some of the best trout fishing waters in South Africa, and the Golden Gate Highlands National Park on your doorstep, Clarens has something to offer everyone seeking spectacular views, good food, fine art, and a wide range of outdoor leisure and sports activities.

Attractions

Clarens is part of the scenic Highlands Route and is surrounded by mountainous splendour. The Rooiberge ('red mountain' in Afrikaans) in shades of pink and yellow is the range encompassing the village, whilst further on towards the southeast, the mighty Maloti’s ('mountains' in Sesotho) stand proud in shades of blue and purple.

The village is widely known as the “Jewel of the Free State” - rich in beauty, with an aura of peace and tranquillity. Clarens is endowed with more trees than most Free State towns - the fresh, light green willows and the colourful blossoms of the fruit trees are an unforgettable sight in spring; whilst the magnificent autumn shades of the lombard poplars attract artists, photographers and nature lovers.

The town is renowned for its many art and craft shops and galleries which offer the visitor a wide range of curios and original artwork. Another feature which adds to the picturesque atmosphere of the village is the many sandstone buildings. The magnificent SANParks Golden Gate Highlands National Park is just 22km to the east of Clarens, an area that attracts many visitors throughout the year.

Arts, crafts, galleries & shops

• Walk around President Square and visit the many shops and galleries offering pottery, leatherwork, ironwork, candles, African art & upholstery
• Weaver Nest Gallery - Clarens scenery in pastels and oils
• The Enslin Vorster Studio - Landscape art & pottery
• Rooikat Gallery - Handmade knives & pottery
• Visit The Barbet, for Authentic local craft, Art Gallery, coffee shop and weekend braai. Horse rides for the children.
• Visit the Country Store and the Post House
• Buy traditional blankets at Di Mezza & De Jager, on Sias Oosthuizen street

Places and activities of Interest

• Titanic Rock - overlooking the entrance to Clarens.
• Clarens Museum - at the information centre on President Square.
• The Ash River Outfall is one of the Highlands Water Scheme’s view points on the Bethlehem road about 7km from Clarens.
• Mushroom Rock on Clifton Farm on the Fouriesburg road about 3km from Clarens.
• Surrender Hill is an historic Anglo-Boer War site on the Fouriesburg road about 10km from Clarens.
• Golden Gate Highlands National Park provides ample opportunity for walking, bird watching, and fantastic scenery – about 22km east of Clarens.
• Bushmen paintings on Schaapplaats farm and in Golden Gate.

Sports & Leisure

• Walking and hiking
• Golfing
• Horse riding
• Fly fishing
• River rafting
• Hang gliding
• Birding (it is not unusual to have vultures circling above your patio!)

(Ask at the Mountain Odyssey Information Centre on Main Street for further details and bookings)

Facilities

• Double bed in Chalet Thabela, two single beds in Chalet Phomosa (these can be made into a queensize bed on request).
  
• Kitchenette with fridge, stove, microwave oven, kettle, toaster, and a range of cooking utensils.
  
• Flatscreen TV with satellite dish and decoder for basic channels (bring your own smartcard and decoder if you prefer).
  
• Dining area with dining table and chairs. Crockery and cutlery for two.
  
• Ensuite bathroom with bath, shower over, WC and basin.
  
• Patio doors onto small enclosed patio (pavers and grass) with braai (BBQ) stand and garden furniture.
  
• Hairdryer, iron and ironing board.
  
• For summer use there is a fan.
  
• For winter use there are two room heaters, an electric blanket and two hot water bottles.
  
• Your own undercover parking in a shared car park in front of the chalet.
  
• Security guards at the two entrances to the complex during the hours of darkness.
  
• Wheelchair access is possible and we are working to improve this with ramps.
  
• The chalet price includes all electricity and hot water.

Directions