Exploring South Africa’s Top Golf Courses: Top five golf courses in South Africa

Exploring South Africa’s Top Golf Courses: Top five golf courses in South Africa

We all know that golf has always been a hugely popular sport. With the Legalization of  sports betting across the country, the popularity of pro golf has surged in both the US and Michigan. And it seems that the sport is more relevant than ever.

But where is else is golf popular?

France, the UK, and you might be surprised to hear, South Africa.

South Africa has a rich golf tradition, we have therefore decided to rank South Africa’s Top Golf Courses.

Ranking golf courses can be a contentious task, and while South Africa boasts its most renowned golf course, the Gary Player Country Club, as its top contender, not all objective reviewers or analysts agree. 

In fact, many fair-minded individuals have positioned this famous course outside the top 10 in the country, primarily due to accessibility issues despite its celebrated setting in Sun City.

Here, we explore the top five golf courses in South Africa, where the Gary Player Country Club fails to secure a spot.

Humewood:

Humewood Golf Club, listed as the only South African links course in Malcolm Campbell and George Peper’s ‘True Links,’ is highly regarded for its natural symmetry and design philosophy inspired by Harry Colt. Golf legend Bobby Locke praised it as one of the best links courses he had ever played. Laid out by Colonel Stafford Vere Hotchkin, the course is a masterpiece located in Port Elizabeth, combining charm and challenge with natural water hazards.

Pearl Valley:

Designed by Jack Nicklaus, Pearl Valley in Paarl, Western Cape, offers a visually stunning experience. Hosting the South African Open three times, its generous fairways are often guarded by white river sand bunkers. The course features natural water hazards, adding both charm and challenge, especially on the seventh and eighth holes. With an online booking system and various accommodation options, Pearl Valley is a popular destination.

Fancourt Links:

Purchased by Dr. Hasso Plattner in the early 1990s, Fancourt features a links course built on a former airstrip. Designed by Gary Player and Phil Jacobs, it offers a hybrid parkland experience, making it more accessible for novices. Despite being relatively new, Fancourt Links has hosted prestigious events like the Presidents Cup and the Volvo Champions. Guests at the resort enjoy preferential rates for tee times.

Leopard Creek:

Located on the southern border of Kruger National Park, Leopard Creek is a renowned championship course requiring bookings through associated lodges. Known for its wildlife-rich surroundings, including hippos and crocodiles, the course provides a unique bushveld golf experience. With exclusive green fees, Leopard Creek stands out as a distinctive golf destination within the picturesque Kruger National Park.

Durban Country Club:

The Durban Country Club is lauded for its remarkable opening five holes, considered by some as the best start to any golf course globally. Originally designed by Laurie Waters in the 1920s, subsequent tweaks have maintained its excellence. The course has evolved from a links course among the dunes, with the club incorporating a halfway house at the end of the front nine. The Durban Country Club, although imposing at its championship length, is known for its challenging yet visually stunning layout.