GOLF COURSES IN SOUTH AFRICA

Transcription

1 GOLF COURSES IN SOUTH AFRICA

2 Content Introduction Map of South Africa Cape Town - Atlantic Beach Golf Estate - Clovelly Country Club - Steenberg Golf Club - Westlake Golf Course - Royal Cape Golf Course - Mowbray Golf Course - Arabella Golf Course Winelands - Boschenmeer Golf Estate - Stellenbosch Golf Club - Hermanus Golf Course - Pearl Valley Golf Course - De Zalze Golf Course (Spier) - Erinvale Golf Estate Garden Route - George Golf Course - Fancourt Country Club - Mossel Bay Golf Course - Pezula Golf Course Sparrebosch - Plettenberg Bay Golf Course KwaZulu Natal South Coast - San Lameer Golf Course - Wild Coast Sun Golf Resort - Selborne Country Club KwaZulu Natal - Champagne Golf Resort - Durban Country Club KwaZulu Natal North Coast Zimbali Country Club Prince s Grant Golf Course Mount Edgecombe Resort Gauteng Peaconwood Golf Estate Houghton Golf Course Glendower Golf Estate Royal Johannesburg Golf Club Sun City Lost City Golf Course Gary Player Country Club Kruger National Park Hans Merensky Golf Estate Leopard Creek Country Club Sabi River Country Club

3 Introduction Southern Africa is known around the world not only for its rugged and natural beauty, its warm and hospitable "rainbow nation" and magnificent wild life, but also for its perfect year round weather and marvelous golf courses. Golf in South Africa will provide you with some great memories and a chance do some fantastic photography. In South Africa you can play the same courses where golfing Legends like Gary Player, Ernie Els and Retief Goosen took their very first Swings. As diverse and interesting as the Southern African landscape and her people, so are its golf courses. South Africa boasts some of the world s best golf resorts and courses as rated by the PGA professionals who visit here every year. Golf Course designs by Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Robert Trent Jones, Ronald Ream, Ernie Els etc. are also found in many South African top Golf Estates. Climate Golf can be played in South Africa for 12 months of the year. The weather patterns are fairly mild and sunshine can be enjoyed throughout the year.

4 GOLF COURSES IN CAPE TOWN Situated at the foot of the African continent, with its majestic Table Mountain backdrop, there can be few more beautiful cities in the world than Cape Town. Founded by Dutch settlers in 1652, Cape Town is the country s oldest city and fourth largest in terms of population. More than 300 years of history have created its unique character - a vibrant blend of Dutch, French, English and Malay influences. It is an attractive, colourful city that boasts excellent hotels and restaurants, open-air markets and shops catering for every pocket and taste. A distinct cuisine evolved from a mix of French, Dutch and Malay cooking. Excellent eateries catering to all tastes can be found throughout Cape Town. Cape Town offers a wide range of crafts, often reflecting a blend of African and European styles. The city has warm summers and fresh winters, making for a pleasant climate all year round. Cape Town offers a full range of accommodation, from the most luxurious to the very economical. The opportunities for Day Excursions are endless, with an excellent variety of tours in and around the Peninsula or to the neighbouring Winelands. Overland tours are also easily accessible from Cape Town to the hidden secrets of the Garden Route, to the exciting `Big Five` game regions, to the thundering Victoria Falls and several other options to choose from. With this unique setting, cosmopolitan population and diverse cultures Cape Town is a highlight of any visit to South Africa.

5 GOLF COURSES IN CAPE TOWN Atlantic Beach Golf Estate Links is a Scottish word for a sandy wasteland, usually near the sea, with hardy grasses and an ever-present breeze off the ocean. This is a true description of Atlantic Beach Golf Links and here golf can be played as it was originally intended. On calm days you can play your normal lofted shot or on windy days you can use the firm turf to play low running shots, beneath the wind. Either way it is a challenge we are sure you will enjoy. Atlantic Beach Golf Links has been built with a serious commitment to the preservation of the indigenous fauna and flora. You are requested to respect this effort by helping to protect the native plants, birds and animals. The Club requests that you observe the post and rail fencing demarcating the environmentally sensitive areas. The combination of good golf in unsurpassed natural surroundings makes Atlantic Beach Golf Links a unique golfing experience. Course Information Links Golf Course Fairway Grass: Combination Greens Grass: POA-Anna Length: Championship: 6344m Club: 5855m Ladies: 513m

6 GOLF COURSES IN CAPE TOWN Set in a valley, the course s championship quality greens are amongst the finest in South Africa. Clovelly is unique in its design; It is a tight par 72 and has a testing blend of holes, the Silvermine River and adjacent ponds, adding much to their character. Sand dunes abound the course, which has natural water features and a wide variety of indigenous fauna and flora, notably the variety of trees lining the fairways. Clovelly is a premium recreation and entertainment experience with superior facilities, full-service amenities and excellent customer service. Clovelly is one of Southern Africa s most picturesque and challenging courses, famous for its rolling computer irrigated fairways, undulating holes and magnificent landscaping, complimenting its rich coastal environment. Clovelly Country Club Course Information Designed by: Charles Molteno Murray Parklands golf course Greens Grass: POA Length: Championship: 5871m Senior: 5869m Club: 5745m Ladies: 5869m

7 GOLF COURSES IN CAPE TOWN The private Steenberg Golf Club is available to hotel guests, members and their guests only. Steenberg is a new exclusive wine estate, hotel and golf course set in the Constantia winelands outside Cape Town. The design of the central clubhouse is harmonious with the historic architecture of the estate. The cool, airy rooms are fronted with green French doors onto a terrace overlooking the immaculate estate. Steenberg is also an ideal starting point for a visit to some of the Cape's other attractions. Designed by Peter Matkovich, the golf course takes full advantage of natural features and hazards. The 18-hole championship golf course meanders though the vineyards, pine forests and gentle waterways. The course features four distinct areas: Wetlands, Parklands, The Cape Flats and Fynbos. With five different tees, the course can be enjoyed by all, from Championship to junior level. Steenberg Golf Club Course Information Designed by: Peter Matkovich Parklands golf course Greens Grass: Bent Grass Length: Championship: 6115m Senior: 6115m Club: 6115m Ladies: 6115m

8 GOLF COURSES IN CAPE TOWN Westlake Golf Course Against the amethyst slopes of the Silvermine mountains lies one of Cape Town's premier courses - Westlake. From the 1st to the 18th hole, every drive affords panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Considered the most popular course in the Cape, Westlake Golf Club was established in 1932 and welcomes visitors with its special blend of old world charm and modern amenities in an atmosphere of conviviality and camaraderie. This 18-hole par 72 course is covered with lush vegetation with towering trees lining many of the fairways. It is not a long course and if you manage to stay out of the trees you will achieve a good score. A very interesting but user-friendly design with quite a few doglegs.. Course Information Established: 1932 Parklands golf course Greens Grass: Powa Length: Club: 5700m Club: 5050m

9 GOLF COURSES IN CAPE TOWN Royal Cape Golf Course Royal Cape Golf Course is founded in 1885, and is South Africa s oldest and most exclusive club featuring a course with narrow fairways lined by trees. The Royal Cape Golf Club is in the southern suburbs of Cape Town, a 15 minute drive from the city centre and from the Cape Town International Airport. A true championship course, having hosted the South African Open eleven times and the South African Amateur Championships eight times, it has recently undertaken a reconstruction programme of all eighteen greens strictly to the specifications of the United States Golf Association. The course today is a fine test of golf especially when the southeaster is blowing. Essentially it is a flat parkland course, well maintained and a pleasure to play with lovely views of the Table Mountain range. Course Information Designed by: Charles Murray Combination of Links and Parklands Greens Grass: Bent Grass Length: Championship: 6121m Ladies: 5392m

10 GOLF COURSES IN CAPE TOWN Mowbray Golf Course Mowbray Golf Course is situated approximately 10 minutes from Cape Town city centre, and the Mowbray Golf Club ハ was established in The club is recognised as being one of the best in the country with all major amateur championships having been played here. Mowbray has hosted the SA Open seven times and the Bells Cup three times. The Course: Set in a very central area - about 15 minutes from the Waterfront and Cape Town's International Airport - Mowbray is a parkland course, which provides an excellent test of golf. The terrain is flat, but plenty of trees and water features make for an interesting experience, with the beauty of the mountain and abundant wild life dominating the scenery. Course Information Designed by: S V Hotchkin (1929), Bob Grimsdell Combination of Links and Parklands Greens Grass: Bent Grass Length: Championship: 6070m Senior: 6094m Club: 5705m Ladies: 6094m A significant feature of any coastal course is, of course, the wind. This is where Mowbray is unique, in that the holes have been so laid out that you will seldom find yourself with the wind directly in your face or right at your back. Also, believe it or not, the wind in Pinelands is seldom as severe as in other parts of the peninsula.

11 GOLF COURSES AROUND CAPE TOWN Arabella Golf Course and Country Estate is Located in Kleinmond (just outside of Hermanus) in the Western Cape. The theme is balance. Challenging enough to bring you back for more, enjoyable enough to make you not want to leave. The design challenge was headed by the renowned architect Peter Matkovich. His undoubted success has resulted in a course that complements the environment without disappointing the golfer, whether expert or amateur. Awards: The course was awarded the Golf Digest award for the best new course in South Africa in In 2002, the course was rated number 9 in South Africa by Golf Digest and number 5 in Arabella Golf Club was awarded the Complete Golfer Five Star award in Arabella Golf Course Course Information Designed by: Peter Matkovich Combination of Links and Parklands Greens Grass: Bent Grass Length: Championship: 6300m Senior: 6300m Club: 6300m Ladies: 6300m

12 GOLF COURSES IN THE CAPE WINELANDS Whether it is its magnificent natural beauty, its rich cultural heritage or its world-renowned wines, the Winelands Region is synonymous with all the best that the Cape has to offer. A 45-minute drive from Cape Town brings you to this area where splendid mountains form a dramatic backdrop to lush vineyards and gabled Cape Dutch homesteads steeped in history. Come experience the hospitality and beauty of Stellenbosch, Paarl, Wellington, Franschhoek and Pniel. The diversity of the Winelands will capture every heart. Follow in the footsteps of our ancestors as you stroll along the oak-lined streets of Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in the country. Our colourful history comes to life in the splendidly restored Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian buildings in each town. Monuments such as the Huguenot Memorial and Afrikaans Language Monument and the many outstanding museums provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. The excellent wines produced in this area are world-renowned. You will be spoilt for choice between small, boutique wineries and the larger, more commercial wine estates. Taste the fruit of the vintner's labour in the magnificent surrounds that are so characteristic of the Winelands, or join the winemaker on a tour of his cellar where the precious harvest is lovingly transformed into every wine lover's delight.

13 GOLF COURSES IN THE CAPE WINELANDS Boschenmeer Golf Estate Boschenmeer Golf estate is set within the Paarl Golf Club which was founded in Nestled in the heart of the winelands of the Paarl/Franschhoek Valley, Boschenmeer Golf and Country Estate is only a 30-minute drive from Cape Town and is sandwiched between the Berg River and the mountains. It is the only 27-hole course in the Western Cape and offers magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. An abundance of water hazards and bunkers make for challenging days golf. This golf course, re-designed by David Frost, features an extra 9 holes bringing the total to 27 holes. Sandwiched between the famous Paarl Rock and Berg River allows one to play in a typical African setting. Although a parklands style course it is most noticed for its magnificent old trees and picturesque water holes in breathtaking mountain surroundings. Course Information Parklands Golf Course Par: 73 Greens Grass: POA-Anna Length: 5900 m Designer: Dr. Charles Molteno Murray

14 GOLF COURSES IN THE CAPE WINELANDS Stellenbosch Golf Club A championship course in a parkland setting surrounded by mountains and vineyards. Scenic and in excellent condition, Stellenbosch presents a fair challenge with some memorable holes. The stroke index 1 hole does not give up par easily. To reach this par four in two you need a long drive followed by an approach over some out-of-bounds vineyards to an elevated green. Stellenbosch lies in the centre of the fertile and very scenic winegrowing area of the Cape, less than an hour's drive out of Cape Town. With its numerous diligently restored buildings in the Cape Dutch style and its renowned university, it is one of the most attractive travel destinations in the Cape. A visit to the town's exclusive golf course situated just out of town amid vineyards is very rewarding. It is a course of the championship class which hosted the South African Open in Course Information Designed by: Peter Matkovich Parklands golf course Par: 74 Greens Grass: Bent Grass Length: Championship: 6535m Senior: 6020m Club: 6037m Ladies: 600m

15 GOLF COURSES IN THE CAPE WINELANDS Hermanus Golf Course Hermanus Golf Club lies on a beautiful stretch of coast, often referred to as the Whale Coast, 100 kilometres southeast of Cape Town. Hermanus has become one of the most popular golf courses in the country - a definite 'must play' course. It is a private course, offering exclusivity to the members, yet accessibility to the public. During the months of July to November, whales can be viewed off the coast a highlight of this region. The sixth hole is probably one of the toughest holes in the Cape. It has a suit and out-of-bounds on the right and trees to the left of this narrow fairway, demanding accuracy into the wind. The green slopes uphill from front to back with a water hazard looming close by on the right. Course Information Designed by: Bob Grimsdell Parklands golf course Par: 73 Greens Grass: Bent Grass Length: Championship: 6025m Senior: 6025m Club: 5741m Ladies: 6025m

16 GOLF COURSES IN THE CAPE WINELANDS Pearl Valley Golf Course Pearl Valley is the latest addition to the Jack Nicklaus s repertoire of signature-designed courses worldwide. The Pearl Valley Golf Estate is surrounded by the Simonsberg and Drakenstein Mountains and bordered by vineyards with The Berg River water hazard running through it! Pearl Valley Signature Golf Estate and Spa is destined to become the premier residential golf estate in South Africa. Designed on 212 hectares of tranquil surroundings for those who expect exclusivity and the finest quality lifestyle yet unmatched in this country. Nicklaus has stayed true to his design principles by working closely with nature and has provided a golf course that fits in with the environment. This fairly flat and largely uninterrupted terrain enabled Nicklaus the freedom to develop hole strategies making this a golf course the golfer has to think his/her way around. In its engineering and planning detail, the course is very rare. It is crossed by roads in only three places, and the drainage system allows play to continue just minutes after a severe cloudburst Course Information Designed by: Jack Nicklaus Parklands golf course Fairway Grass: Combination Length: Championship: 6511m Club: 6090m Ladies: 4703m

17 GOLF COURSES IN THE CAPE WINELANDS Kleine Zalze Golf Course (Spier) Designed by Peter Matkovich, this 18-hole course is set among vineyards and orange groves, alongside the Blaauwklippen River. With magnificent mountain backdrops, this exquisite setting presents an exciting challenge to golfers of all standards. End your day with some wine or brandy tasting in the area. This is the newest of the 18-hole golf courses in the Western Cape. The Course has a memorable layout with many challenges, especially the second nine. The short par-four 12th is played from an island tee over a large stretch of water to a green that can be driven if you're brave enough to carry the water. The par five with two fairways is another interesting hole set amongst the citrus trees. Watch out for the telephone poles which often can obstruct your drive. Course information Designed by: Peter Matkovich Combination of Links and Parklands Par: 70 Greens Grass: Cool Season Bent Grass Length: Championship: 6385m Club: 6385m

18 GOLF COURSES IN THE CAPE WINELANDS Erinvale Golf Estate Erinvale Golf Club, nestled at the foothills of the Helderberg and Hottentot Holland mountains in Somerset West near Cape Town is one of South Africa s great golfing challenges. Situated in the beautiful wine region, Erinvale s breathtaking mountain and sea views are an integral part of this unforgettable golfing experience. Designed by Gary Player Erinvale is beautifully manicured par 72 championship course boasts some of the country s most challenging and spectacular holes. Erinvale s demanding front nine meanders through park-like terrain, whilst the back nine provide a contrasting challenge winding its way through the foothills of the mountains with panoramic views of False Bay. The greens at Erinvale are huge and well-shaped allowing for several different pin placements. A feature of the layout is that different coloured flags tell you the position of the pin, blue flags at the back, white in the middle and red at the front. Erinvale is also a real estate development where homes blend well into the landscape. Course information Designed by: Gary Player Parklands Golf Course Greens Grass: Penn Cross Length: Championship: 6506m Senior: 6506m Club: 5892m Ladies: 6506m

19 GOLF COURSES IN THE GARDEN ROUTE The southern coastline between Mossel Bay and Plettenberg Bay combines breathtaking scenery - mountain ranges, lakes, sheer cliff faces, wide golden beaches and dense indigenous forests, commonly known as the famous Garden Route. The region provides a striking study in contrasts. The delightfultown of George, known as "The Gateway to the Garden Route", graces a coastal plateau in fertile area of lush greenery at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains. Access to the Garden Route is made via two commercial airports at George and Port Elizabeth. Or travel by road from Cape Town and sample the diverse and awe-inspiring natural beauty of South Africa.

20 GOLF COURSES IN THE GARDEN ROUTE George Golf Club This undulating, densely wooded course is an established favourite with the local market because of it s scenic setting and memorable layout. The course feels as if it has been carved out of a forest but the fairways are a generous width, so only wayward shots end up in the trees. The perfect setting for holiday golf. Nestled away in the foothills of the magnificent Outeniqua mountain range, lies the beautiful natural parkland known as George Golf Club. Charles Molteno Murry designed the original course in 1931 and in 1993 Phillip Basson upgraded it into a course that for the last 8 years has been rated in the top 10 golf courses in South Africa. George Golf Club has over the years hosted many top S.A.G.A. Tournaments. Course information Designed by: Dr Charles Molteno Murray Combination Links & Parklands course Par: 70 Greens Grass: Bent grass Length: Championship: 6201m Senior: 6201m Club: 5777m Ladies: 5185m

21 GOLF COURSES IN THE GARDEN ROUTE Fancourt Country Estate Fancourt Hotel and Country Club Estate has four golf courses to offer the golfing visitor. All the courses are renowned for their amazing year round condition and the attention to detail that is shown. The Montagu, the Outeniqua and The Links are limited to members and resort guests. The Fancourt Montagu is considered one of the best conditioned golf courses in South Africa and has been ranked as the top course in the country. With two 18-hole parkland courses, The Montagu took shape under master golfer Gary Player. With two 18-hole parkland courses The Outeniqua, that also took shape under master golfer Gary Player, worldclass conditioning and a setting that takes in mountains, water and wildlife, there is nothing to beat a Fancourt round. If you're feeling a little rusty or just want to ease into your game, the Warm-up Area is available to resort guests and members. Unique to South Africa, The Links golf course was officially opened in November 2000, by owner Dr Hasso Plattner and course designer, Mr Gary Player. Created from a previously flat piece of land, over cubic metres of earth was moved in transforming it into a typical Links style. The course presents undulating windswept terrain, and dune-style landscape and is the only such course in South Africa. Bramble Hill is the fourth course on the estate and is a Parkland course with Links features. Bramble Hill offers a good mix of the estate's other three courses. The course is a public 'Pay for Play' facility and has been designed to offer golfers of every level a Fancourt experience.

22 GOLF COURSES IN THE GARDEN ROUTE Mossel Bay Golf Club The Mossel Bay Golf Club is close to the Diaz Museum. The 18-hole links course has recently been remodeled and upgraded and is getting positive reviews. The golf club is situated above a peninsular that juts out into the Indian Ocean with terrain that is densely vegetated and undulating. The course is a par 72 and is 5880m long with the average size of the bent grass greens being 550m². The climate is Mediterranean with prevailing South East winds in summer and North West in winter. Kikuyu tees and fairways (mixture of Cynoden and Kikuyu) completes the course and ensures the golfer of a wonderful experience where you can see the sea from every tee. Course information Designed by: Bob Grimsdell 1957 Danie Obermeyer 2000 Links golf course Fairway Grass: Combination Kikuyu and Cynoden Greens Grass: Bent grass Length: Championship: 5880m Club: 5186m

23 GOLF COURSES IN THE GARDEN ROUTE An 18-hole golf course located on the top of Knysna Heads and designed by Ronald Fream. Situated on the East Head at Knysna, spectacular views of the mighty Indian Ocean, tranquil Knysna Lagoon and majestic Outeniqua Mountains frame the estate and its 18-hole Scottish links-style golf course. The area is covered with beautiful varieties of fynbos, which strongly resembles Scottish heather. Pezula has been chosen to host the forthcoming ladies world championships in 2005, 2006 and 2007 Pezula Golf Course Course Information Designed by: Ron Fream Links golf course Fairway Grass: Kentucky Blue & Rye Greens Grass: Bent grass Length: Championship: 6281m Senior: 6198m Ladies: 6218m Ladies: 5027m

24 GOLF COURSES IN THE GARDEN ROUTE Plettenberg Bay Golf Course This is no little seaside golf course, it is a magnificent 18-hole layout in the most lovely of settings. All greens and bunkers are to USGA specifications. All greens and fairways are on automatic sprinkler systems - the result is a golf course you will remember. Every year thousands of holiday-makers from all over southern Africa flock to the beaches, luxury hotels and paradise-like setting of Plettenberg Bay, which is situated on the famous and beautiful Garden Route. It's a sporty place, with most of the activities focused around the sea, surf, lake and lagoon. But 'Plett' also has an excellent golf course, set in the lovely Piesang (Banana) Valley, which is surrounded by high hills. The whole area has been proclaimed a nature reserve and it is rich in bird life and home to the strikingly beautiful Knysna Loerie. Course Information Designed by: Robert Hawtree Parklands golf course Greens Grass: Bent grass Length: Championship: 6260m Ladies: 6260m

25 GOLF COURSES KWA-ZULU NATAL SOUTH COAST There's no doubt about it - visitors are spoilt for choice with what to do along the Durban South Coast, the relaxed region that lies between Durban's cosmopolitan 'buzz' and the Zulu Kingdom's southernmost reaches. A vast stretch of inviting Indian Ocean, expansive, idyllic golden beaches and sub-tropical bush are perfect for hiking, diving, birding, surfing, angling, beaching and whale-watching. In other words, if you've chosen not to relax at the 19th, there's plenty to do after your morning round of golf! Popularly known as the 'Golf Coast', the scenic Durban south coast has a comprehensive selection of attractive and challenging golf courses. And although we've only selected a few of our favourite courses for you to visit while passing through, every golf course in the area is worth a visit.

26 GOLF COURSES KWA-ZULU NATAL SOUTH COAST San Lameer Golf Course Situated on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast, San Lameer, near Southbroom, is a nature lover s paradise. The estate is extremely conscious of protecting the environment and a walk on the golf course will bring one into contact with the dense coastal bush, shady streams and rich bird-life of the region. The San Lameer Country Club clubhouse is quite magnificent and has a spectacular view from the terrace. The course was built on a flood plain and there are numerous water hazards. It is well wooded and has lush tropical vegetation and perfectly manicured greens. The designers have created a course that not only tests playing ability, but mental ability and the will to triumph over the odds. Course information Designed by: Peter Matkovich Parklands Golf Course Fairway Grass: Cynodon Greens Grass: Country Club Length: Men: 6111m Ladies: 5375m

27 GOLF COURSES KWA-ZULU NATAL SOUTH COAST Wild Coast Sun Golf Resort A memorable golf course situated on the magnificent Wild Coast. World-renowned golf course architect - Robert Trent Jones Jr. - has used the dramatic coastal setting to maximum effect, designing an interesting and challenging course with some unforgettable features. Since it was opened in 1983, the Wild Coast Sun course has established itself as one of South Africa's best and is ranked in the top 10 in South Africa. The Wild Coast Sun Country Club course presents an exciting and worthwhile golfing challenge, at the same time allowing one to experience truly spectacular views of the sea and countryside. The fairways are wide and while the course has many memorable holes, the 12th is probably the most breathtaking hole in Africa. This par five is played from an elevated tee down to a fairway which cuts through the valley and then rises again to an elevated green. Course Information Designed by: Robert Trent Jones Junior Parklands Golf Course Par: 70 Length: Men: 5807m Ladies: 5329m

28 GOLF COURSES KWA-ZULU NATAL SOUTH COAST Selbourne Country Club This beautifully manicured and maintained 18-hole, par 72 golf course provides a challenge for the more proficient golfer whilst also offering the social player an enjoyable round. With its natural forests and trails, Selborne is rated as one of South Africa's most scenic courses. There are water features on the 15 and 18 holes. There is a resident golf professional available for those who need to brush up on some of their skills. Selborne is perfectly positioned on the sub-tropical coast of KwaZulu-Natal, and is surrounded by the beautiful, well established Selborne golf course. Selborne was built in the grounds of an old colonial home and is now one of the top courses in South Africa. The bird-life, lush vegetation and abundance of water make for a beautiful setting. Selborne has built a reputation as the Augusta of South Africa. Course Information Designed by: Dennis Barker Parklands Golf Course Fairway Grass: Combination Greens Grass: POA-Anna Length: Men: 6040m Ladies: 5614m

29 GOLF COURSES IN KWA-ZULU NATAL Blessed with balmy weather all year round, Durban is the largest city in the Kingdom of the Zulu and an important economic hub built around the busiest port in the Southern hemisphere. A warm, sub-tropical climate with plenty of sunshine means that your Durban golf won't be cancelled on account of the weather. What s more, an abundance of golden beaches, lush parks, modern shopping centres, interesting local markets, museums and art galleries ensure that you will be kept entertained both on and off the golf course. Greater Durban enjoys the lion s share of KwaZulu Natal s golf courses that are a good mixture of mature parkland courses and a number of newer editions such as the Durban Country Club - regarded as the number one course in South Africa and on the African continent.

30 GOLF COURSES IN KWA-ZULU NATAL Champagne Golf Course The Champagne Sports Resort is situated in central Drakensberg s Champagne Valley and is the ultimate getaway two hours outside of Durban. With a luxury hotel and extensive sports and recreational facilities including an 18-hole championship golf course, the resort offers a holiday most can only imagine. The backdrop of the Champagne and Cathkin Peaks makes it one of the most scenic courses in the country. Designed by South African golfer Hugh Baiocchi it is a fair challenge for the low handicapper as well as being playable by the weekend golfer. Course Information Designed by: Huch Biaocchi Mountain Golf Course Greens Grass: Bent Length: Club: 6694m Ladies: 4757m

31 GOLF COURSES IN KWA-ZULU NATAL Durban Country Club is a prestigious private club with a very colonial air, evident it its traditions and gabled clubhouse. The Indian Ocean and Durban seafront are visible from several tees and dense tropical scrub lines the undulating dune-like fairwys. The Beachwood and Durban courses amalgamated in 1995 and the two courses are both scenic and demanding, and to score well here, you will have to be playing your best. Durban Country Club Durban Course The Durban Country Club course is host to numerous championships and often appears in various rankings of the world'stop 100 courses. Some of the fairways are characterised by weird undulations, reminiscent of the great Scottish Links courses. The foliage on the course is breathtaking, with virtually every tropical plant imaginable creating a colourful, scented backdrop to your round. Beachwood Course In 1995 the two clubs amalgamated and Beachwood is now the alternate Golf Course offered by Durban Country Club. Beachwood was built on indigenous woodland by Percy Gilbert Stiebel around a mangrove swamp. The mangrove swamp is believed to be one of the last of its kind on the KwaZulu-Natal coast. Course information Designed by: George Waterman and LB Walters Redesigned by: Gary Player Semi-links Golf Course Fairway Grass: Cynodon Greens Grass: Paspalum Length: Men: 6111m Ladies: 5294m

32 GOLF COURSES KWA-ZULU NATAL NORTH COAST Dubbed the Dolphin Coast because of the frequent sightings of bottlenose dolphins playing in the Indian Ocean, Durban's North Coast is a sub-tropical coastal paradise that stretches from Durban northwards to the mighty Thukela River. The coast has a relaxed, vibrant and village holiday atmosphere, with the necessary infrastructure for your business, shopping and entertainment needs. Also comprising pristine beaches, azure bays, green sugar cane and indigenous forests of raffia palms, why wouldn't you want to play golf along this beautiful coast? With this beauty as a backdrop, the region has in fact become a popular golfing spot with the development of the scenic and challenging Zimbali Country Club (one of the toughest tests of golf in the region), Prince's Grant, as well as other north coast golf courses.

33 GOLF COURSES KWA-ZULU NATAL NORTH COAST Zimbali Country Club Zimbali is a new golf resort on the north coast of Durban. This superb course has been designed by Tom Weiskopf specially for use by carts. It features magnificent vistas of the Indian Ocean. The character of the property is one that is described as having an abundance of natural features which include constant changes in elevation, a combination of mature indigenous trees and vegetation and some beautiful wetland areas with natural steams and ponds, all creating a dramatic and beautiful setting. Tom Weiskopf has designed a golf course which will challenge players of all handicaps in the most delightful surroundings. The course combines links, coastal and parkland vegetation. Course information Designed by: Tom Weiskopf Links Coastal & Parklands Course Greens Grass: Bent Length: Men: 6052m Ladies: 4858m

34 GOLF COURSES KWA-ZULU NATAL NORTH COAST Prince s Grant Golf Course Set amongst the grand old sugar estates on the North Coast, Prince's Grant Golf and Country Estate is the jewel in the crown of this pristine, unspoiled stretch of coastline. With panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, this development has been designed to capture the gracious colonial life-style of early Natal. The course architects, Matkovich & Hayes, designed the course to present challenges similar to those of traditional Links courses in Scotland, and the unsheltered fairways mounds and wellshaped bunkers are reminiscent of the fabled Links courses of Great Britain. Course information Designed by: Peter Matkovich and Dale Hayes Links Golf Course Fairway Grass: Country club Greens Grass: Country club Length: Men: 6260m Ladies: 6260m

35 GOLF COURSES KWA-ZULU NATAL NORTH COAST Mount Edgecombe Resort Formerly Huletts Country Club, the course has been redesigned by Hugh Baiocchi to create a memorable championship course. It has a beautiful setting in the sugar cane country on the Natal north Coast.The club now boasts a choice of two excellent 18- hole courses. Mount Edgecombe I In pristine condition, this new course has an interesting layout, characterised by attractive water features and large, multi-tiered greens planted with country club grass. Mount Edgecombe II This course is kept in excellent condition. The fairways sweep between densely massed pines, tall gum trees and beautiful shrubs. Course information Designed by: Dayson, De Villiers, Van der Merwe Parklands Greens Grass: Cynodon Length: Men: 6265m Ladies: 5811m

36 GOLF COURSES IN GAUTENG Not only does Johannesburg boast some particularly fine golf courses, a number of which have hosted European PGA Tours and South African Sunshine Tour events, but Johannesburg is also an international business destination and South Africa s financial capital. Johannesburg is on the routes of most major airlines and is close to South Africa s national parks. So if you re on a business trip and would like a round of golf, Johannesburg is the perfect destination for you. You can play a round of golf with your clients or play a round on your own to pass the time pleasurably between business meetings. Johannesburg has a suitable climate for golfing and offers many challenging golf courses.

37 GOLF COURSES IN GAUTENG Peacanwood Golf Estate The first Jack Nicklaus designed course in Africa, Pecanwood Golf and Country Club is a golf estate which is situated on the southern shore of the Hartebeesport Dam with the Magaliesberg Mountains in the background. Opened in 1998, it was voted the best new course of the year by Golf Digest. The course is outstanding, both from its setting and for its design and layout - whatever your standard of golf. The fairways are grassed with Kikuyu while the greens themselves are the first to be planted in South Africa in Crenshaw bent grass. Course information Designed by: Jack Nicklaus Parklands golf course Greens Grass: Crenshaw bent grass Length: Championship: 6537m Club: 6537m

38 GOLF COURSES IN GAUTENG Houghton Golf Course Houghton Golf club is situated in Johannesburg and boasts one of the best courses in the Johannesburg area. The course is home to several tournaments, including the Alfred Dunhill Cup. Houghton has also hosted the South Africa Open eight times. This course has gone through some very innovative changes over the past ten years and has been substantially improved and modernized. Holes have been redesigned to incorporate extended water hazards while bunkers have been improved and added to both fairways and greens. Course information Designed by: Peter Matkovich (1994) Parklands Greens Grass: Bent Grass Length: Length: 6434m Ladies: 5237m

39 GOLF COURSES IN GAUTENG Glendower Golf Estate Rated as Johannesburg s top course, this championship course has proven to be one of South Africa s greatest tests of golfing prowess. Coupled with amazing beauty and impeccable manicuring and being set in a wooded parkland paradise you are always ensured of a memorable round of golf. It is conveniently located within 10 minutes of Johannesburg International Airport. Water comes into play on 11 of the holes. The aesthetically pleasing second hole is one of the best par-fives to be found anywhere, requiring an accurate tee-shot to a fairway flanked by trouble both left and right and a water hazard next to the green. Magnificent greens, an abundance of bunkers and luscious Kikuyu fairways complete your experience. Course information Parklands golf course Greens Grass: Bent Grass Championship: 6411m

40 GOLF COURSES IN GAUTENG Royal Johannesburg Golf Club Royal was built in 1933 and granted its Royal prefix by King George V. It has two long courses and at first glance is an intimidating prospect for most visitors, until you remember that at Johannesburg s high altitude the ball travels 10% further. The courses have a tree-lined parkland layout with gentle undulations rather than abrupt slopes. Situated in the pretty suburb of Linksfield North, the Royal Johannesburg has easy access, with a hotel and airport shuttle available. East Course The East course is a true championship course having hosted 7 South African Opens as well as the second British Commonwealth Tournament. The 10th and 11th holes are reputed to be the longest back-to-back par fours in the world. The course has undergone many improvements including a project undertaken to control erosion and reinforce the banks of the water course which runs through the property. West Course The West course was the site of the Johannesburg Golf Club when it first moved to the current premises in It was voted the most improved course in 2000 by The Compleat Golfer magazine. While its beautiful sweeping fairways and generous sized greens inspire joy and confidence, the player who strays from them will quickly find trees, water or other frustration in uncompromising abundance. Course information Digned by: Golf Data Parklands golf course Greens Grass: Bent Length: Championship: 6416m Club: 6537m

41 GOLF COURSES IN NORTH-WEST PROVINCE Sun City Sun City, internationally renowned as South Africa 's premier holiday resort, offers a multitude of attractions and activities. Conveniently located about two hours drive outside Johannesburg, Sun City combines golf, game and gambling, as well as world-class hotels. Playing golf in Sun City means you ll be a part of the Sun City magic, and experience the fine golf courses that form part of this special place in Africa. Sun City's two par-72 championship golf courses offer visitors to southern Africa's premier resort an exciting and challenging golfing experience. The Gary Player Golf Course, home to the internationally prestigious Nedbank Million Dollar Golf Challenge, and the desert-style Lost City Golf Course with crocodiles at the 13th hole, provide exciting play for amateur and professional golfers alike.

42 GOLF COURSES IN NORTH-WEST PROVINCE Sun City: Lost City Golf Course The Lost City Country Club is a conversation piece and an experience not to be missed. Like an oasis in the arid bushveld, the course offers many surprises. The short 13th is played over a crocodile-infested waterhole in the shape of the continent of Africa. Baobab trees and cacti are among the aesthetic attractions, and baboons are often seen. The views of the surrounding countryside and the Palace are breathtaking. Course information Designed by: Gary Player Bushveld golf course Greens Grass: Bent Length: Championship: 6983m Club: 6549m

43 GOLF COURSES IN NORTH-WEST PROVINCE Sun City: Gary Player Country Club Probably South Africa s most famous golf course and with good reason! A championship course of gigantic proportions, the Gary Player Country Club plays host to the annual Nedbank Golf Challenge. Past winners include Ray Floyd, Steve Ballesteros, Bernhard Langer, Ian Woosnam Ernie Els and Nick Price. It is wise not to deviate from the immaculate Kikuyu fairways and bent grass greens, as stray shots are likely to end up in the bushveld of the Pilanesberg - not an easy place from which to play a recovery shot! Course information Designed by: Gary Player, Ron Kirby Parklands golf course Greens Grass: Bent Length: Championship: 6938m Club: 6535m

44 GOLF COURSES AROUND KRUGER PARK The Kruger National Park is one of the top wildlife parks in the world and the flagship of Africa and South Africa's game reserves. It is home not only to the 'Big Five', but also to bird species, trees, mammals, reptiles, fish and amphibian species. Playing golf on the outskirts of the Kruger Park means you can combine your favourite sport with the bush and wildlife-viewing activities. With the possibility of Zebra and other wildlife visiting you during your challenging round of golf, you won't even need to venture beyond your golf course to view some of Africa's finest game! Kruger Park 's climate is subtropical with hot rainy summers from October and March, followed by warm dry winters. In winter, the cooler temperatures and sparser vegetation makes game viewing and golf playing a lot easier.

45 GOLF COURSES AROUND KRUGER PARK Hans Merensky Golf Estate The Hans Merensky Golf Estate is situated in Phalaborwa, the gateway to the Kruger National Park. It is on this golf course that you will experience the wonders of Africa as you encounter wildlife. The Golf Clubhouse raised to overlook the 9th and 18th Holes offers a view unsurpassed. Sitting on the patio having a chilled refreshment is the perfect way to relax after an exciting day on the golf course. This 18-hole, par-72 golf course has hippos in the water hazards and rolling fairways with spectacular views of the African Bushveld. The legendary Bob Grimsdell designed this unique course, which extends over a vast area of indigenous bush, interspersed with tranquil pools and immaculately attended velvet greens. Course information Parklands Golf Course Fairway Grass: Cynodon Greens Grass: Bayview Length: 6549 m Designer: Bob Grimsdell

46 GOLF COURSES AROUND KRUGER PARK Leopard Creek Golf Estate Innovative architectural and landscaping techniques ensure that the golf course and lodges are harmonious with the environment while lakes and small streams have been diverted through the development to create scenic vistas and interesting golf strategies. Golfing hazards take on a new dimension at Leopard Creek for much of the water is home to hippos and the creature for which the adjacent river is named - crocodile. Situated near Malelane in the heart of Mpumalanga, on the southern border of the Kruger National Park, the exclusive Leopard Creek presents a rare opportunity to play golf in the heart of the bushveld. Course information Designed by: Gary Player Parklands golf course Greens Grass: Bent grass Length: Championship: 6533m Ladies: 5106m

47 GOLF COURSES AROUND KRUGER PARK Sabie River Country Club Gary Player and Reg Taylor played a part in the design and the course is invariably enjoyed by golfers of all levels. Two of the par-fives, namely number 7 and number 11 are comparable to the Augusta National in their beauty, challenge and abundance of water. Approximately one hour from Kruger National Park and several Private Game Reserves, the Sabie River Country Club meanders gently through a valley. Forests and river frontages are part of the delightful vistas to be experienced here. Course information Designed by: Peter Matkovitch and Dale Hayes Parklands golf course Par: 74 Greens Grass: Bayview Length: Championship: 5990m Club: 5990m