Kiara Lodge

Kiara Lodge is a resort-style lodge on the R712 at the foot of the Maluti Mountains in the eastern Free State. It is usually listed under Clarens, but it is out of town, roughly a 15-minute drive away, and right next to Golden Gate Highlands National Park. That makes it a better fit for people who want to spend their days in the park than for those who want to spend their evenings in Clarens itself.

What to expect

Accommodation is a mix of double rooms and studios with patios, two- and three-bedroom chalets, villas and an old farmhouse that sleeps a larger group. Units have their own entrance and patio, and bathrooms with a bath or shower. Some studios are listed as wheelchair friendly.

On-site facilities lean towards families: an indoor heated pool, a tennis court, mini golf, a playground and a games room. There is also a spa, a gym, a bar and a restaurant, so there is no need to drive back into Clarens for dinner. Trip.com also lists fishing and hiking excursions.

Practical details

• Address: R712, Clarens, Free State.
• Check-in 3pm to 9pm, check-out by 10am.
• Free parking on site.
• The two booking sites give different figures for the number of rooms and units, so check the exact layout of the unit you book.

Good to know

Golden Gate Highlands National Park is about 2 km away, the Brandwag Sentinel about 5 km and the Holkrans hiking trail under 5 km, so a stay here cuts out the daily drive that guests based in Clarens have to make.

Last updated 6 October 2026. Sources: LekkeSlaap, Trip.com.