Ascending the steep hill to Clevers Lakeview Resort reveals one of the finest views in the Masvingo region – the vast waters of Lake Mutirikwi, Zimbabwe’s second-largest lake. Located just outside Masvingo and within easy reach of the Great Zimbabwe National Monument, the resort is perfectly positioned for travellers looking for comfortable accommodation near Great Zimbabwe while enjoying peaceful surroundings and sweeping lake views.

Before the view fully reveals itself, the lush garden – nourished by the abundant summer rains – does its best to slow you down on your way to the perfect sundowner spot after a day exploring the ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe. Carefully tended and filled with birdsong, the garden almost completely envelops the charming tin-roofed colonial house, creating an atmosphere of tranquillity in this scenic and lesser-visited part of Zimbabwe.

We visited in the height of summer, when the countryside around Lake Mutirikwi is vibrant and green. The garden was in full bloom, competing for attention with the lake and the hazy blue mountains beyond. The lake peeks through the trees during the summer months, but in winter the views become even more impressive as the foliage thins.

Clevers Lakeview Resort is a charming and welcoming hotel near Great Zimbabwe, and in our opinion one of the best Masvingo accommodation options. With a range of rooms – from comfortable en-suite hotel rooms to spacious self-catering family cottages – the resort suits both couples and families travelling through southern Zimbabwe. Friendly Zimbabwean hospitality, relaxing facilities and a welcoming restaurant make it an ideal base for visiting Great Zimbabwe, exploring Lake Mutirikwi Recreational Park, or simply unwinding after a day on the road.