Top 12 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Clarens, South Africa - Updated 2024

Kamalika
Kamalika 
Updated
| 6 min read

Clarens is a beautiful hamlet set in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains in the Free State province of South Africa. Nicknamed the ‘Jewel of the Eastern Free State’, this small town boasts unparalleled natural beauty with its famous mountains, dams, rivers, and streams. Popular among those who seek to be close to nature away from the din and bustle of the city, Clarens is also a haven for adventure lovers as it offers an endless list of outdoor activities like horseback riding, golf, archery, hiking trails, abseiling, mountain biking, and quad biking. Go on a romantic hot air balloon ride over the picturesque landscape or enjoy a day of trout fishing in the streams or simply sit back and relax in the proximity of nature. Whatever you fancy, for the best places to stay in town, check out our top Airbnb vacation rentals in Clarens, South Africa, and book today!

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on February 03, 2024.

1. Scenic solar-powered retreat (from USD 93)

Great for groups of up to six, this modern multi-story home sets the scene for a much-awaited nature getaway. The accommodation is mostly powered by solar power, which means fewer power interruptions. With a balanced mix of cozy features and handy amenities, you’ll surely have a nice place to come home to after exploring all the fun things to do in Clarens.

It has a well-appointed common area with a lounge, dining table, and self-service kitchen. Upstairs is a comfortable loft bedroom, which also has access to the private balcony overlooking the mountain and an open en-suite bathroom. Extra features include a fire pit, a spacious deck, and a braai grill.

Stayed at this property?
Clarens, Free State, South Africa
19.45 km (12.1 mi) from Golden Gate Highlands National Park
184 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 3 Beds 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we had no wifi during our stay but it made it all the more relaxing
Cleanliness:
extremely clean was well kept
the house itself is beautiful and very comfortable and clean
Host:
the host is very helpful
absolutely lovely spot and charlotte is a superb host
thank you charlotte for being a brilliant host and making us feel so welcome
charlotte is such a great host she was available throughout our stay
amazing host beautiful home and wonderful setting
Location:
this was a great location and house
value for money absolutely stunning accommodation close to the square
what a beautiful place
dzi is an absolutely unforgettable jewel for accommodation walking distance from all the shops and restaurants in clarence…
this is a fantastic place to spend time in clarens
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2. Self-catering home for the holidays (from USD 64)

Whether you’re lodging in Clarens, South Africa, for the winter or envisioning a summer retreat, this self-catering accommodation has just enough of what you need for a memorable stay. Situated next to local shops and eateries, this charming holiday house is packed with uniquely South African features, including an indoor braai that also serves as a fireplace, and there’s even an open bathroom in one of the two bedrooms.

It also features a few state-of-the-art amenities, including a smart TV in the lounge area and free Wi-Fi throughout. Complete with other interesting highlights such as the outdoor dining area and a large fire pit, this four-person modern abode is pet friendly, so feel free to bring your fur babies while visiting Clarens.

Stayed at this property?
Clarens, Free State, South Africa
19.33 km (12.1 mi) from Golden Gate Highlands National Park
145 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
thanks gavin for being a great host
Location:
clarens house is the ideal location to find peace and solitude
beautiful home with perfect location
awesome place and great location
great place close to town we had a great time
the house is gorgeous and compliments the location and surrounding area
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3. Romantic loft apartment at village center (from USD 85)

Situated right at the heart of the village square, La Poste is a romantic getaway for two with fascinating views of the mountains. This loft-style apartment has a super-king bed with an open bathroom with a fancy bathtub where you can relax at the day’s end with a cool tall drink. There is a cozy living room area with a leather couch, a TV and an indoor fireplace. You can cook your meals in the functional kitchen with dining area. The glass doors of the apartment lead out to the private patio overlooking the charming courtyard where there are facilities for having a barbeque as well!

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Clarens, Free State, South Africa
19.23 km (12.0 mi) from Golden Gate Highlands National Park
96 reviews   Wifi Available
ENTIRE RENTAL UNIT 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
spacious loft fitted with everything you could need including a wonderful wood burning heater for cold winter nights
we had a wonderful three nights in lyn's beautiful apartment
an awesome holiday in a fabulous apartment
beautiful apartment in the center
the tub in the room is an amazing (and very romantic) touch
Cleanliness:
clean well positioned and fitted with everything we needed
spacious clean and comfortable with superb attention to detail
clean stylish accommodation in the centre of town
it was lovely and clean and just like the photos
Host:
friendly place and people
the owner's representative was extremely helpful and responsive and added to the experience
lyn and simon were great hosts instantly available for any queries
you do not see the host as you collect your room key out of a safe outside the door
lynn was very friendly and very helpful
Location:
perfect location right on the square with everything within walking distance
this place is ideally located
great location charming and spacious apartment
this spot is perfect mix of close to everything yet far away from the world
great location with everything you could need for a weekend away
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4. Luxurious holiday home at foothills of mountains (from USD 81)

Perfect for large groups or families, this luxurious holiday home in Clarens, South Africa, is right at the foothills of the Maluti Mountains with scenic vistas on all sides. The house accommodates up to 8 guests in its three bedrooms – one with a super king-sized bed, one with a queen-sized bed and another with 2 bunk beds and a crib.

There is a spacious open plan living cum dining room with a well-equipped kitchen. You can dine alfresco in the patio dining area as you soak in the beautiful surrounding apple orchard and mountain views. Modern amenities like indoor fireplace, central heating, TV, washer, and free parking on premises are available.

Stayed at this property?
Clarens, FS, South Africa
19.38 km (12.1 mi) from Golden Gate Highlands National Park
165 reviews   Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 6 Beds 8 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 8

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beautiful view very comfortable and stylish stay
the view is amazing and our stay was very comfortable
lovely comfortable & warm house with underfloor heating electric blankets & fireplace
we were blessed to arrive to a big bouquet of cosmos flowers on the table
electric blankets on all beds was such a blessing on a cold night highly recommended
Cleanliness:
very clean and comfortable
beautiful and clean great stay
very clean and modern place in nice area
beautiful clean luxury and comfortable
it is superbly decorated and it was sparklingly clean when we arrived
Host:
denise is a wonderful host
she was very responsive in the run-up to our stay and provided several restaurant and hiking recommendations
denise is a wonderful host and so helpful
denise is just one of the perfect hosts that genuinely cares
denise was also so helpful and readily available to answer any questions leading up to the weekend
Location:
a perfect stay close to everything
the location is perfect
this house is absolutely beautiful and great location
great location where you can start hikes from outside the front gate
first of all the location where the house is situated is quiet and secure
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5. Open plan studio cottage in Larola suburb (from USD 31)

Enjoy stunning mountain views from this open plan studio cottage with large sliding glass doors in the peaceful suburb of Larola, 600m (656 yards) from Clarens town square. This cottage is a perfect place to set base for exploring the various outdoor activities on offer in the area like trout fishing, hiking, mountain biking, white water rafting, ziplining, golfing, and many more. The studio has a comfortable double bed with an ensuite bathroom. There is a living room area with a functional kitchenette as well for cooking your meals. Amenities like TV, barbeque facilities, and free parking on premises are available.

Stayed at this property?
Clarens, Free State, South Africa
18.33 km (11.4 mi) from Golden Gate Highlands National Park
282 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire guest suite 1 Bed 4 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we had an excellent 3-night stay at nicolene's the cottage was cozy and super clean
full dstv as well if you want to stay in the room
a really lovely room
Cleanliness:
clean house and very beautiful place
very spacious clean and modern
the studio is very clean and tidy
the cottage was very clean and spotless
lovely very clean and modern furnished studio
Host:
friendly host as well
friendly and helpful host
thank you for being a wonderful host
thank you to nicolene she was a great host
host is a great communicator
Location:
the location is beautiful and peaceful
close to the city centre but quiet enough to enjoy the peace of the suburbs
cute and comfortable little place
value for money close to town and extreme sport place
modern space good location special touches
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6. Romantic studio near town center (from USD 64)

A perfect romantic getaway in beautiful Clarens, South Africa, with art galleries, restaurants, and quaint cafes abound, this large studio is uniquely designed to appeal to your senses. A private entrance leads to the studio doors where there are a patio and a braai place for you to enjoy the delightful scenery all around. The studio has a luxurious queen-sized bed and a corner tub.

There is a collection of books and a music system for your relaxation. The living room is tastefully separated from the bedroom area and is complete with comfortable sofas, a fireplace, and Wifi. There is an open functional kitchen as well as a dining space within the studio.

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Clarens, Free State, South Africa
19.0 km (11.9 mi) from Golden Gate Highlands National Park
52 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire guest suite 1 Bed 2 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
stylish well thought out comfortable great view no shortcomings and just an overall pleasure
beautiful views great location lovely interior and kitchen
great shower and bath very cozy beautiful view and attentive hosts
clean comfortable and wonderful views of the mountains
great view of the mountains from the kitchen as you make your first cup of morning tea
Cleanliness:
beautifully decorated apartment and was very clean
everything was super comfortable and clean
Host:
had great treatment from jolena and her staff would go again but would book top floor
host communicated very well and also allowed a late check out
Location:
great location and stylish modern layout
what a great place
great place and good value for money
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7. Charming cottage in a farm with great views (from USD 70)

Located 5 minutes away from the town center, this picture-perfect quaint cottage for rent in Clarens, South Africa, is situated in the De Molen farm boasting gorgeous views of the countryside and the mountains. Walk down the mowed walks along Little Caledon River, try your hand at fly fishing, or hike up to the mountain caves – enjoy a wondrous vacation away from the bustle of the city at the Oak Tree Cottage.

The compact cottage offers one double bedroom with an attached bathroom. There is a small kitchenette with dining area. The evenings are perfect for relaxing in the cottage patio and marveling at the flower garden all around.

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Clarens, Free State, South Africa
11.92 km (7.5 mi) from Golden Gate Highlands National Park
55 reviews   Wifi Available
Farm stay 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
brian & lin thought of all the comforts including a bed heater
a cozy little place with a fantastic view on a great farm
the rooms were clean and tidy complete with everything we needed for our stay
Cleanliness:
the house was very well furnished and clean
clean fresh air and relaxation is what we needed and it's exactly what we got
the accommodation was clean and comfortable and we would certainly love to go back soon
Host:
lovely host too
lin is a wonderful host
thank you for being such wonderful host friendly and open
stunning spot and helpful host
hosts were very friendly and helpful
Location:
great location on a farm which is just a short distance to clarens or the golden gate park
great location to get to golden gate for hikes quadbiking horseriding
clarens itself is a very nice countryside place
this place is very well situated just minutes between golden gate np and clarens
golden gate park is unbelievable what a beautiful corner of the world
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8. Lodge for 8 guests with mountain view (from USD 48)

If you are traveling in a large group, then the beautiful Applegate Lodge accommodating up to 8 guests is perfect for you! The stylishly designed house is surrounded by lush green lawns and has wonderful views of the mountains from all sides. The house has four spacious and well-decorated bedrooms – one with a king-sized bed and three with two single beds. The master bedroom has glass doors that open out into the lawns. There is a large living room with sofa, TV and indoor fireplace. There is an adjacent functional kitchen with dining area. The large glass doors of the living room open out to the porch and the lawns from where you can marvel at the stunning mountain views.

Stayed at this property?
Clarens, Free State, South Africa
18.39 km (11.5 mi) from Golden Gate Highlands National Park
234 reviews   Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 7 Beds 8 Guests 4 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 8

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
good value comfortable stunning view
the bedrooms are very comfortable and the electric blankets were much appreciated for the cold winter nights
very comfortable bed with warm linen and lovely indoor fireplace
it’s spacious and comfortable with amazing views to make your stay special
we especially loved how cosy every room was in the wonderful clarence winter evenings and mornings
Cleanliness:
clean / scenic / spacious
house was clean on arrival and was daily cleaned
sue’house is nice and clean
beautiful clean home however very noisy
clean tidy and an added bonus to have the space cleaned for us
Host:
she is definitely a super host
the hosts are extremely friendly and welcoming
sue is a wonderfully accommodating host and our stay was perfect
the host is extremely responsive and a place i will return to
sue is a very understanding & supportive host
Location:
great place and close to the square
great place within spitting distance of main street and the main square of clarens
great place in a great location just ouside of the town
the place is situated very close to all local attractions
very nice accomodation - close to all that clarens has to offer
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9. Cozy cottage near town center

Nestled at the doorstep of the Golden Gate National Park, Honeysuckle cottage is located at a short stroll away from the town center and is a great base for setting off for adventures on mountain biking, hiking, quad biking, horse-riding or river rafting. The cottage accommodates up to 4 guests and has two double bedrooms and two bathrooms. There is a comfortable living room with a wood burning stove and an equipped kitchen with dining area. The large glass doors of the living room open out to the front porch and garden area from where you can enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery.

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19.32 km (12.0 mi) from Golden Gate Highlands National Park
95 reviews  
Entire guest suite 2 Beds 4 Guests

10. Luxury accommodation with mountain view

Relish a sumptuous barbeque with a fascinating view of the mountains from the patio of this modern luxurious house overlooking landscaped lawns. The house accommodates up to 6 guests and has three bedrooms – one with a king-sized bed, one with a queen-sized bed and another with two single beds. The spacious living room is comfortably furnished with an indoor fireplace and has an adjacent open functional kitchen and a dining space with large glass doors that open out to the patio. Modern amenities include Wi-Fi and free parking on the premises. The house is also pet-friendly!

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19.12 km (11.9 mi) from Golden Gate Highlands National Park
28 reviews  
Entire house 4 Beds 6 Guests

11. Cottage within walking distance to town center

Uninterrupted views of the Maluti Mountains and Mount Horeb greet you at this charming cottage located within walking distance to all the shops and restaurant in town. Enjoy your breakfast at the alfresco dining area on the patio of this beautiful cottage with manicured lawns around it. The cottage has two spacious bedrooms – one with a king-sized bed and another with two single beds. Additionally, there are two sofa beds in the plush living room with an indoor fireplace and a TV. There is an equipped kitchen for you to cook your meals and a dining area. Basics like Wi-Fi, heating, and free parking on premises are provided at the cottage.

Stayed at this property?
Clarens, Free State, South Africa
18.93 km (11.8 mi) from Golden Gate Highlands National Park
88 reviews  
Entire cottage 3 Beds 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the cottage is comfortable for 3 or 4 people
it has a beautiful view and cozy with everything you will need
cozy loving fully equipped beautiful views and perfect location
lots of blankets also provided and the bed in the main bedroom was very comfortable
homey living space and everything you need to make it a comfortable relaxing stay
Cleanliness:
it was clean comfortable and fresh after some new paint
wonderful cosy and clean place would stay again any time
this is a lovey clean and stylish place with no-hassle check-in
Host:
garden beautiful and pet friendly
Location:
close to everything yet peaceful
wonderful accommodation and location is perfect
walking distance from great shops and restaurants in clarens
location location location we enjoyed our stay
close to town cosy cute and safe x
Read more reviews

12. Holiday home at 2 minutes from town center

Located at a 2 minutes distance from the town center, this beautiful holiday home is nestled at the foothills of the Maluti Mountains and offers panoramic views of the countryside with the backdrop of the glorious mountains. The house accommodates up to 6 guests and has three bedrooms – two with king-sized beds and another with two single beds and a crib. Relax by the indoor fireplace in the cozy living room, cook a delicious meal in the fully-equipped kitchen, or enjoy a barbeque in the patio as you soak in the beautiful surroundings – your vacation could not get any better than this!

Stayed at this property?
Clarens, Free State, South Africa
19.45 km (12.1 mi) from Golden Gate Highlands National Park
59 reviews  
Entire house 4 Beds 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the house is stylishly decorated and very comfortable with underfloor heating that was an absolute luxury in winter
tons of space for a group of people with large rooms and aesthetics pleasing decor
Cleanliness:
very clean and equipped
very clean and spacious accommodation
very clean and well equipped
the house is well equipped clean and comfortable
spacious clean warm just all around great place to stay
Host:
chivonne was a great host
the host was friendly and always willing to help
didn't really meet the host but terri was quick to respond and very helpful
thank you for hosting us had a wonderful time at clarens
Location:
close to the main attractions
great location and great value
great location and value for money
great stay perfect location neat place beautiful home
drive to clarens town is short complex was quiet and felt secure
Read more reviews

Live close to nature in the idyllic little town of Clarens in South Africa

Clarens, a picturesque little town set at the foothills of the Maluti Mountains in South Africa, is a haven for nature-lovers and thrill-seekers due to its diverse outdoor activities on offer ranging from hot air balloon rides and trout fishing to mountain biking and hiking. For the best places to stay, check out our list of top ten Airbnb vacation rentals at Clarens.

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Frequently asked questions about the top Airbnb vacation rentals in Clarens, South Africa


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Dreamer and a traveloholic, Kamalika loves traveling to off-beat destinations and capturing the experiences through her pen and camera.

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