For years, the Clarens Craft Beer Festival was a fixed event on my calendar. Like many festival-goers, my visits followed the same familiar pattern: soaking up the vibe on the festival square, grabbing a pint at the Clarens Brewery Taproom, and maybe squeezing in a meal at a local restaurant. It was always a good time, but I realised I was missing out on the bigger picture of what Clarens had to offer.
That changed when a few local residents invited me to step off the beaten path and explore the Clarens Village Conservancy. Suddenly, Clarens wasn’t just about beer—it was about community, nature, and a whole host of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
When I started the Beer Passport™, my goal was always to go beyond just great beer. I wanted to help our community discover the people and places that make each town special. With help from brewers and local legends, I’ve been highlighting destinations where Beer Troopers can meet the creators, entrepreneurs, and dreamers who bring life to our small towns and cities.
So, this year, I set out to Clarens with a mission: to uncover what else this beautiful part of the Free State has to offer. Even though my timing wasn’t perfect (many local business owners were enjoying a well-deserved break after the holiday rush), Local Beer Legends Stephan and Natalie Meyer connected me with some incredible people in Clarens and along the Cherry Route.
Here’s a glimpse into what I found.
Highland Brew, just 10 minutes from Clarens, is run by Nicola Martin and offers the perfect blend of hearty food, craft beer, and mountain views. It’s more than just a farmstall—it’s a place where you can relax and take in the beauty of the Maluti Mountains.
Looking for some different beers? Try the Notties range at the Highlander.
Andes Café, just outside of Clarens on the Bethlehem Road on the left, is a beautiful working farm that offers the best breakfasts or brunch. Highly recommended for the Beer Fest weekend.
For coffee lovers, Highland Coffee Roastery, established by Chris Pafanis in 2009, is a must-visit. Their specialty roasts are the perfect way to start your day before heading out to explore.
If cheese is your thing, Baris Monger, run by Estee van Aswegen, will steal your heart. Think delicious farm-made goat’s cheese, paired with great wine and good coffee, all in a garden setting that’s as beautiful as it is peaceful. Plus, their goats are pretty awesome too!
The Mountain Monkey (Die Bus Stop), managed by Danae Janse Van Rensburg, is one of those quirky spots you might miss if you’re not looking for it—but trust me, it’s worth the stop. Located just across from Kiara Lodge, it’s full of charm and surprises.
For a hearty breakfast or lunch, Sugar and Cinnamon Restaurant offers not only outstanding views but also a warm welcome and a little shop full of interesting finds. Just a short 13km scenic drive on the R712 towards Golden Gate, it’s the perfect pitstop.
The Cherry Route & Beyond
Fouriesburg marked the beginning of the Cherry Route, a journey that took me deeper into the heart of the Free State.
At Tresley’s Fine Food, Trevor Conlyn and Wesley have created an artisan deli that’s all about home-smoked, perfectly cured delights. Their passion and love for what they do come through in every bite.
Further along the route, I visited Ionia Cherry Farm in Fouriesburg, famous for its annual Cherry Crop Celebration every November. There’s nothing quite like picking fresh cherries straight from the orchard and enjoying the beauty of the farm.
Constantia Cherry Farm & Farmstall, managed by Gwynet Higgo, was another highlight. Situated between Ficksburg and Clocolan, this farmstall is a treasure trove of cherry products—from liqueurs and ice cream toppings to their legendary milk tart topped with a secret cherry sauce. Their restaurant, with both indoor and outdoor seating, is perfect for a relaxed meal while the kids enjoy the playground.
The Cabin Farm Stall in Clocolan, run by Erné Durow, offered a charming pitstop with local products and a cosy atmosphere.
And then there was Rosendal, often called the Free State’s best-kept secret. The newly retarred road between Rosendal and Fouriesburg made the drive smooth and scenic. In Rosendal, I found The Service Station Wine Bar, where Doug Masson has turned a restored gas station into a welcoming space for wine lovers. Their collection of Canadian whiskies—the largest in South Africa—is a unique touch.
Although Krummel, managed by Marius Combrinck, was closed during my visit, I’ve heard nothing but great things about their eclectic décor and delicious meals. I’ll definitely be back to check it out.
Final Thoughts
This trip opened my eyes to how much more there is to discover beyond the beer taps. Clarens and the Cherry Route are brimming with stories, flavours, and experiences that deserve to be shared. That’s why I’m excited to add many of these destinations to the Lekker Passport™. Whether you’re a beer lover, an adventurer, or someone looking to connect with the heart of our small towns, there’s something here for everyone.
If you’ve got your own hidden gems or local legends to recommend, I’d love to hear from you. The road ahead is full of possibilities, and I can’t wait to explore more with you all.
Cheers,
Holger