Monday, November 19, 2012

Stress Relief

Hi All,

Sorry, I haven't posted in a few days but I desperately needed some time out from the rat race that is Johannesburg traffic and the stress of work. So, I took a week off and drove to the beautiful Eastern Free State town of Clarens, South Africa.

What a gorgeous part of the world this is and should the opportunity ever cross my path I will most definitely want to live there some day.

I stayed at a B & B right at the entrance to this beautiful town called The Courtyard Cafe. It was absolutely exceptional, great service, fantastic breakfasts and the host Jane is one of those people that the minute you meet her you feel as though you have known her forever! I was travelling alone and it was never a problem for this gracious hostess.

I stayed in Apartment number 2 which is a one bedroom, with a lounge, kitchen and bathroom with shower with the most fantastic views from a private balcony. Other alternatives are available, check out the following links for more info. www.wheretostay.co.za/the-courtyard  
www.safarinow.com/go/TheCourtyardCafeClarens
The Courtyard Cafe - right behind the Phatt Chef Restaurant


A giant extremely comfortable bed that you just want to spend the whole morning in


Comfortable lounge and mini-kitchen area


View from the balcony of Apartment number 2 - yes those are horses and geese on the farm beneath the mountain. Food for the soul!


The Cafe downstairs offers the most delicious breakfasts, wonderful coffee and fantastic service and, if you are lucky, some engaging conversation from hostess Jane Ball. My favourite breakfast was the delicious poached eggs, so good I had it twice in a row!

The also have a bakery on the premises (try the sublime Lemon merangue or cheese cake, delicious!) and they make their own breads, croissants etc. The smell alone will drive you down from your apartment to try the delicious baked goods. This place is fully serviced and well worth a stay for absolute relaxation and rest. Walking distance to the shopping mecca that is Clarens.

As for Clarens itself, this is a beautiful mountaineous town that takes your breath away and immediately ensures you relax and soak up the surrounding scenery and fresh air.



Go for a hike to admire the beautiful scenery around this gorgeous town with lots to offer. From shopping, restaurants, white water rafting, the beautiful and stunning Golden Gate Highlands National park. The town has a lot to offer to the weary traveller and well worth a vist or even better stay permanently.

Oh and if you can get some cherries, this is cherry country after all.


Delicious fresh cherries, available almost anywhere in the town of Clarens, in season of course.

I had a wonderful time and really this little beautiful town has stolen my heart. I absolutely cannot wait to go back and would love to re-locate there permanently some day.

One never knows, the posibilities in life are endless if you want something bad enough you'll work hard in getting it.

Have a good day all and please, please get to Clarens some day soon.

Cheers for now,

Wayne

P.S. Please comment and let me know your thoughts, comments or suggestions.

www.clarens.co.za
www.clarenstourism.co.za
www.infoclarens.com

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