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Trusted by 15000+ customers
The French Cottage
Trusted by 15000+ customers
Select your dates to reserve
from R 2,800
/ per night, 2 guests
WiFI
Bath
Fan
Patio
Fully-equipped kitchen
Firewood 
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About The French Cottage
Located on the historic Naauwpoort farm, The French Cottage is a stunning hideaway just outside Clarens in the Free State. Surrounded by sandstone cliffs, an ancient cave, and a cascading waterfall, this hidden gem offers a peaceful setting among fruit trees and a meandering river. The cottage, built in country French style with Clarens sandstone, provides a perfect escape for nature lovers.
The fully-equipped cottage sleeps six guests across three bedrooms spread across two levels. The country-style open-plan kitchen and dining room upstairs have wonderful views of the property and mountains, while a cast iron fireplace keeps the lounge cosy on winter nights. Outside, a large open braai and fire pit offer the perfect space for summer nights.
The French Cottage Setting
The 5-hectare property is a haven for nature lovers, featuring bushman paintings, a perennial waterfall and an array of birdlife. Guests can enjoy walks along a river path or hike to nearby cliffs, which offer panoramic views of Clarens and the Maluti Mountains. The cottage is just a short drive (or 15-minute walk) from Clarens town square, making it a serene yet convenient getaway.
Clarens is a hotspot for golf, hiking, mountain biking, abseiling and exploring local galleries and boutique shops. A visit to Clarens Brewery is highly recommended. Nearby attractions include Golden Gate National Park, Afri-Ski in Lesotho, and the Drakensberg. For those seeking relaxation, Clarens offers day spas, while photographers can capture stunning mountain vistas.
Activities
Golden Gate National Park
Bokpoort Horse riding
Basotho Cultural Village
Walks and Hikes
Reviews
Unique Getaway
A truly unique and hidden gem against the mountain. Beautiful gardens, surrounded by large trees, with a short hiking trail. Luxury farmhouse interior, with fireplace inside for the cold nights. Will definitely stay here again!
M. Potgieter
Stunning
Beautiful location, a charming cottage, well equipped. Lovely walks along the river up to the cave and waterfall.
M. Stander
Unique Getaway
A truly unique and hidden gem against the mountain. Beautiful gardens, surrounded by large trees, with a short hiking trail. Luxury farmhouse interior, with fireplace inside for the cold nights. Will definitely stay here again!
M. Potgieter
Stunning
Beautiful location, a charming cottage, well equipped. Lovely walks along the river up to the cave and waterfall.
M. Stander
Location
491 Villiers Street, Clarens, 9707
How to get there
FROM JHB/PTA
Travel on the N3 highway towards Durban. At Warden, take the Bethlehem exit and travel for 90km on the R714. As you come to Bethlehem, turn left onto the R26 and then continue straight through traffic lights on the R26 and the N5. 10km on the other side of Bethlehem turn right to Clarens on the R712, travel this road for 32km and then see below for detailed directions to the cottage in town.
FROM DBN and NATAL
Travel on the N3 highway towards Johannesburg. Before you enter Harrismith take the slipway left off the highway and continue through 1 traffic light and a 4waystop on the N5 towards Bethlehem. Passing the outskirts of Harrismith on the N5 turn left then on to the R74 and continue straight to the R712 towards Phutaditjaba and Clarens. Follow this road for about 80km through Golden Gate National Park and you will arrive in Clarens then see below for detailed directions to the cottage in town.
FROM BLOEMFONTEIN/N1 HIGHWAY
From Bloemfontein travel on the N1 highway towards Windburg. At Windburg town, turn off and travel towards Senekal on the N5 which will take you to Bethlehem. In Bethlehem, turn onto the N5 again towards Harrismith, driving through Bethlehem town. 5kms outside Bethelhem, turn right onto the R712 to Clarens. Travel for 30kms to Clarens.
Directions to the Cottage from in Clarens town:
As you turn into Clarens from the R712, turn immediately right into Sias Oosthuizen street, with Lake Clarens on your left side. Continue straight on the gravel road and take your third road left, into Villiers Street and drive up all the way until you see the sign for the French Cottage and the gate. Once inside, follow the marked driveway to the Cottage.
