278 On main

Clarens, a quaint village renowned as the Jewel of the Free State, is highly regarded for its art and craft galleries, magnificent surroundings and adventure activities.

Conveniently located in the heart of Clarens, 278 on Main offers luxurious home-from-home accommodation, delicious country fare and an intriguing deli and gallery. Proprietor, Sue Campbell has a well deserved reputation for being one of the most hospitable hosts in the village.

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.

Restaurant:
Since opening in December 2007, the restaurant has built a reputation for serving one of the best breakfasts in Clarens. Describing his recent breakfast at 278 on Main, Brendan Seery, Executive Editor, The Star said "The omelettes and cappuccinos are the equivalent of the best anywhere in the world."
The breakfast menu ranges from cereal with yoghurt and honey for the not so hungry to a hearty English breakfast.

On the menu throughout the day are a variety of salads comprising fresh farm produce wherever possible and mouth-watering sweet and savoury pancakes. You`ll find many international favourites like toasted cheese & tomato as well as scrumptious treats served on ciabattas or toasted paninis.

When the weather is chilly, a bowl of Sue`s home-made soup or one of her specialty pasta dishes is always a good option. And if you`re not in a hurry, the Beef & Guinness or Baboti are well worth waiting for. Or if you`re simply in the mood for a sweet treat you can`t go wrong with the chocolate brownies, scones and cream or freshly baked muffins.
Dinner is always a culinary delight - try the vegetable spring rolls, duck liver pate with toasted ciabatta or the baked Camembert with Melba toast. Main course specialties include, lamb shank, melt-in-the mouth lamb curry, oxtail and of course phenomenal Slow roasted duck in an orange brandy sauce. End your meal with one of Sue`s outrageously decadent desserts.

Accommodation at 278 on Main, Clarens:
278 on Main offers luxurious home-from-home accommodation in Clarens. Our guests can experience the warmth of our Clarens hospitality when staying in one of our six guest suites.

Topaz
Upstairs, and decorated in the earthy shades of desert sands, this double suite is offered with a choice of king or twin beds. Topaz includes both bath & shower en suite, a comfortable relaxing area and a magnicent view of the Maluti Mountains from the balcony.

Ruby
Probably the most romantic, and bordering on decadent, the upstairs Ruby Suite is ideal for honeymooners or others seeking the touch of romance. Complete with king size bed, bath & shower en suite, the Ruby Suite is a firm favourite amongst returning guests

Crystal
With white and silver as the underlying decor theme, this airy first floor suite has its own private balcony with 180 mountain views. With either a king or twin beds, bath & shower en suite and comfortable sitting area, this suite is extremely popular.

Tuscan
Located on the ground floor next to the self-catering apartment, the Tuscan Suite has a bath & shower en suite and guests have a choice of a king or twin beds. This suite is often combined with the apartment for groups wanting to be in close proximity.

Black & White Apartment
A ground floor, two bedroom self-catering apartment comprising the Black & White room with bath & shower en suite and king or twin beds. This apartment has a separate lounge and fully equipped kitchen - ideal for families or couples sharing.

Chakaland Apartment
A ground floor, two bedroom self-catering apartment comprising the Black & White room with bath & shower en suite and king or twin beds. This apartment has a separate lounge and fully equipped kitchen - ideal for families or couples sharing.

Things to do in Clarens:
- Visit Art galleries
- Visit Golden Gate Highlands National Park
- Explore Dinasour Trails
- QwaQwa National Park
- Bushmen Paintings
- Visit Titanic Rock
- Visit Basotho Cultural Village
- Go Hiking
- Go Horseriding