5 best golf courses in South Africa

One of the world’s most beautiful countries, South Africa has also carved out a reputation as the southern hemisphere’s number one destination for golfers looking to mix up their games. Here are 5 of the best courses to whet your appetite…

Links Course at Fancourt, Western Cape
Often referred to as the best golf course on the Western Cape, if not the entire country, the Links Course at Fancourt is not to be missed. One of three Gary Player-designed courses on the private Fancourt resort, the links course has a reputation for tough, strategic golf set in the shadow of the Outeniqua Mountains. Fancourt replicates the wild abandon of a traditional Scottish links course, made all the more impressive when you discover the area used to be an airfield.

Highland Gate, Mpumalanga
The only course on our list in the eastern province of Mpumalanga, the rugged Highland Gate golf course is nestled in the stunning Steenkampsberg mountain range. The signature Ernie Els golf course is set at high altitude and uses the dramatic highveld terrain to create an unforgettable golfing challenge. The course is located just two and a half hours from Johannesburg, meaning it’s the perfect place to relax if you’re visiting the city for business or pleasure.

Pearl Valley, Western Cape
Set in the breathtakingly beautiful Paarl-Franschhoek Valley on the Western Cape, a round at Pearl Valley is a true pleasure to play. The Jack Nicklaus signature course has won awards for being the best conditioned course in the province, but it’s the course’s use of water features that makes it truly unforgettable. Just a short drive from Stellenbosch, Pearl Valley is in the heart of the Cape Winelands, so why not complement your round with a visit to the local vineyards?


  
Humewood Golf Club, Eastern Cape
Under a near-constant pummelling from winds whipped up off the Indian Ocean, Humewood is perhaps the only true links course in South Africa. One for the traditionalists, the view from the course’s signature Par 4 13^th hole will leave you breathless and is well worth the green fees alone. The course is located just outside Port Elizabeth, a hip destination for holidaymakers and the western gateway to the popular Sunshine Coast.

Arabella Golf Club, Western Cape
The third Western Cape course on our list, Arabella is the nature lover's pick as the course has been carefully crafted with the local ecosystem front and centre. On the banks of the Botrivier Lagoon, the holes twist through wetlands home to all manner of waterfowl and wildlife. Located down the coast from Cape Town, Arabella is perfectly placed for a day or two’s escape from the bustle of the city.