GOLF COURSES
Renowned for its excellent scenic golf courses and due to the ideal
setting between the mountain and the sea, the Helderberg and
surrounding area has become a favoured golf destination for golfers
from all over the world. We have compiled a list of golf courses within
easy driving distance.
SOMERSET WEST COUNTRY CLUB
Rue de Jaqueline, Somerset West. The 18-hole course is considered
one of the more forgiving in the Western Cape. There are a few
testing holes but Somerset West is one place where the average
golfer can expect to play two or three shots under his handicap.
Somerset West is one of the few traditional country clubs still in
existence with facilities for tennis, squash and bowls as well as golf.
The town of Somerset West is a very popular residential area, which is
due in no small measure to its exquisitely beautiful setting - it faces
False Bay and has as its backdrop the majestic Helderberg Mountains.
The origins of the Somerset West Golf Club date back to 1903, when
a piece of railway line drawn by 4 oxen, cleared enough bush and
mole-runs to allow for a 9 hole 'course' which eventually gloried in the
name of Paarde Vlei Golf Club. During 1908, the club was officially
founded. The extremely rare white squirrel is only found in two places
in South Africa, and it can be seen there. The current professional is
Chester Visser. Their greens are fairly large, and under bent grass
they are always in very good condition (weather permitting). The
course is currently 5166 metres long, and while it appears flat and
easy, it is deceptive. Seven of the holes have water perils and most
greens are guarded by bunkers or hillocks. Rating: 71 Holes: 18 Par:
73 Length: 5166 meters. TELEPHONE: +27 (0)21 852-2925
FAX: +27 (0)21 852-2925
EMAIL: ryk@hixnet.co.za
www.somersetwestgolfclub.co.za
PAARL GOLF CLUB
Wemmershoek Road, Paarl. On the Wine Route with many famous
estates in and near the picturesque town in addition to the giant KWV,
controlling body and umbrella co-operative of the Cape wine industry.
Paarl, unlike many of the courses in and around Cape Town, is
sheltered from the wind. From the pedestal tee at the 165-metre par-
three 6th hole, there is a beautiful view of the Berg River with
vineyards close by and the mountains in the distance.
The course itself is flat and noted for its magnificent old trees which
line the fairways. There is one huge acorn tree right in the middle of
the fairway at the par-five 16th hole. A big hitter can clear the top of
this tree, but mere mortals are required to work the ball, courtesy of a
controlled hook, around the side of it.
Paarl Golf Club is a par-74, which is unusual. It has no less than six
par-five's, affording the golfer plenty of scoring opportunities.
TELEPHONE: +27 (0)21 863-1140
FAX: +27 (0)21 863-3660
ERINVALE COUNTRY ESTATE
Lourensford Road, Somerset West. The Erinvale Golf Estate nestles
at the foot of the Helderberg and Hottentots Holland Mountains in
Somerset West some 48 kilometres from Cape Town.
Erinvale forms part of an upmarket residential-cum-golf development
in one of the best locations in the Western Cape.
From a golfing point of view, the setting is ideal, because the area is
almost completely protected from the south-easterly wind.
Designed by the Gary Player Design Company with extensive sod
layering in bunker faces; wide, gently undulating kikuyu fairways,
Penn Cross greens; water on six holes. The rough is well kept and
playable. The views from the golf course are unsurpassable. Erinvale
Golf Club, nestled at the foothills of the Helderberg and Hottentots
Holland Mountains in Somerset West is one of South Africa's great
golfing challenges. This course was the venue for the 1996 World
Cup of Golf, and the 2003 & 2004 South African Open Championship.
Erinvale's beautifully manicured par 72 championship course boasts
some of the most challenging and spectacular golf holes. Erinvale's
breathtaking mountain and sea views are an integral part of this
unforgettable golfing experience. Erinvale's demanding front nine
meanders through parkland terrain, whilst the back nine provide a
contrasting challenge as it winds its way through the foothills of the
mountains with panoramic views of False Bay. Erinvale borders on the
Helderberg Nature Reserve, in fact a portion of the upper reaches of
the property has been incorporated into the reserve. The pro shop is
one of the finest and best equipped pro-shops in the country and
Johan Piek, the Head Professional, can advise you on equipment and
golf instruction. Despite being a private course it is still accessible to
the public. Rating: ***** Holes: 18 Par: 72 Length: 6505 meters.
TELEPHONE: +27 (0)21 847-1375
FAX: +27 (0)21 847-1024
EMAIL: kevin@erinvale.com
STELLENBOSCH GOLF CLUB
Stellenbosch Golf Course is situated at the foot of the imposing
Simonsberg mountain, close to the university and wine-making town of
Stellenbosch. This area is steeped in interesting history and is worth a
visit on its own.
Stellenbosch golf course is also described as one of the most scenic
courses in the whole of South Africa and it is easy to see why. The
golfer is treated to magnificent views of the surrounding mountains
and the famous vineyards that make this area the "Nappa Valley" of
South Africa.
This course is sheltered from the South-Easterly wind that can
sometimes create havoc for the amateur golfer, and an afternoon
round will award a player, superb views of the setting sun and Table
Mountain in the distance, whilst Helderberg and Stellenbosch
mountains form a spectacular backdrop close by.
TELEPHONE: +27 (0)21 880-0103/ 4
FAX: +27 (0)21 880-0260
STRAND GOLF CLUB
Beach Road, Strand. A widely held view among lovers of this great
game is that wind provides a good test for the golfer, and should be
regarded as a challenge to be endured and enjoyed. If you can
identify with this philosophy, then the Strand course is definitely the
place for you.
As Strand Golf Club is only separated from the sea by a narrow strip
of land along which Beach Road runs, it is no exaggeration to say this
championship course is exposed to fresh and strong breezes and
sometimes even gales. In fact, in honour of the wind, an annual
tournament called the 'Southeaster' is held here every April.
Strand is also known for its water features. The golfer will encounter
no less than 11 of them during a round. The course is not overly long,
especially off the club tees.
There is a bird sanctuary adjacent to the course, the Helderberg
mountains provide breathtaking backdrop and nearby Somerset West
and Gordon's Bay are sought-after resorts for sea, sun, scenery, fine
food and fine wine from the Cape's world-renowned vineyard just up
the road in Stellenbosch. With the Hottentots Holland mountain range
forming a splendid backdrop and only a short distance from the
beach, the Strand Golf Club offers a challenging layout. Although flat,
this par 72 of contrasting nines provides a demanding test of golf. The
course is renowned for its excellent greens and fairways (rated top
three in the Western Cape - 2002). A superb, modern clubhouse
offers all facilities: Excellent pub and service and catering for all
occasions. New, fully equipped Pro Shop (2002). Resident teaching
professional. Rating: 70 Holes: 18 Par: 72 Length: 5851 meters.
TELEPHONE: +27 (0)21 853-6268
FAX: +27 (0)21 854-6281
EMAIL: stragolf@iafrica.com
ARABELLA COUNTRY ESTATE
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
compliments the environment without disappointing the golfer, whether
expert or amateur.
Property owners will automatically acquire membership to the course
(two per dwelling). This includes the use of many amenities provided
by the club. The challenge and majesty of the course should provide
irresistible to the wider golfing fraternity. Of course you'll have more
time to practice.
The Arabella Country Estate is built on a terrain that rolls down the
banks of the Bot River. Designed by Peter Matkovich, the layout and
features are said to be of his best as he used the mountain backdrop,
lagoon, river and forests to compliment the design. The course was
voted 'Best New Course South Africa' in 1999
TELEPHONE: (028) 284 9383
FAX: (028) 284 9385
E-MAIL: arabella@mweb.co.za
DEVONVALE COUNTRY ESTATE
Bottelry Road, Koelenhof. Situated next to Hartenberg estate, outside
Stellenbosch, with mountains and wine farms as a backdrop, the
setting is indeed memorable.
The course is part hilly and part flat. The 423-metre par-four 17th -
stroke one on the card - tests both the golfer's power and skill. A
dogleg-left, the drive must be long and accurately hit to have any
chance of reaching the green in two.
TELEPHONE: +27 (0)21 882-2080
FAX: +27 (0)21 882-2113
PEARL VALLEY GOLF ESTATE
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! Type: Parklands golf course
Holes: 18
Par: 72
Length: Championship: 6511m
Club: 6090m
Ladies: 4703m
SPIER GOLF ESTATE
Spier Country Club, situated between Stellenbosch and Somerset, is
the only golf club in the world with its 19th hole in a wine cellar.The
6385m layout was designed by leading golf course designer,Peter
Matkovich. There are stunningly beautiful mountain views all around
the course complemented by the vineyards, orange groves and dams
through which the course meanders. Type: Combination of Links &
Parklands
Holes: 18
Par: 70
Length: Championship: 6385m
Club: 6385m
Men: 5937m
Ladies: 5138m
Renowned for its excellent scenic golf courses and due to the ideal
setting between the mountain and the sea, the Helderberg and
surrounding area has become a favoured golf destination for golfers
from all over the world. We have compiled a list of golf courses within
easy driving distance.
SOMERSET WEST COUNTRY CLUB
Rue de Jaqueline, Somerset West. The 18-hole course is considered
one of the more forgiving in the Western Cape. There are a few
testing holes but Somerset West is one place where the average
golfer can expect to play two or three shots under his handicap.
Somerset West is one of the few traditional country clubs still in
existence with facilities for tennis, squash and bowls as well as golf.
The town of Somerset West is a very popular residential area, which is
due in no small measure to its exquisitely beautiful setting - it faces
False Bay and has as its backdrop the majestic Helderberg Mountains.
The origins of the Somerset West Golf Club date back to 1903, when
a piece of railway line drawn by 4 oxen, cleared enough bush and
mole-runs to allow for a 9 hole 'course' which eventually gloried in the
name of Paarde Vlei Golf Club. During 1908, the club was officially
founded. The extremely rare white squirrel is only found in two places
in South Africa, and it can be seen there. The current professional is
Chester Visser. Their greens are fairly large, and under bent grass
they are always in very good condition (weather permitting). The
course is currently 5166 metres long, and while it appears flat and
easy, it is deceptive. Seven of the holes have water perils and most
greens are guarded by bunkers or hillocks. Rating: 71 Holes: 18 Par:
73 Length: 5166 meters. TELEPHONE: +27 (0)21 852-2925
FAX: +27 (0)21 852-2925
EMAIL: ryk@hixnet.co.za
www.somersetwestgolfclub.co.za
PAARL GOLF CLUB
Wemmershoek Road, Paarl. On the Wine Route with many famous
estates in and near the picturesque town in addition to the giant KWV,
controlling body and umbrella co-operative of the Cape wine industry.
Paarl, unlike many of the courses in and around Cape Town, is
sheltered from the wind. From the pedestal tee at the 165-metre par-
three 6th hole, there is a beautiful view of the Berg River with
vineyards close by and the mountains in the distance.
The course itself is flat and noted for its magnificent old trees which
line the fairways. There is one huge acorn tree right in the middle of
the fairway at the par-five 16th hole. A big hitter can clear the top of
this tree, but mere mortals are required to work the ball, courtesy of a
controlled hook, around the side of it.
Paarl Golf Club is a par-74, which is unusual. It has no less than six
par-five's, affording the golfer plenty of scoring opportunities.
TELEPHONE: +27 (0)21 863-1140
FAX: +27 (0)21 863-3660
ERINVALE COUNTRY ESTATE
Lourensford Road, Somerset West. The Erinvale Golf Estate nestles
at the foot of the Helderberg and Hottentots Holland Mountains in
Somerset West some 48 kilometres from Cape Town.
Erinvale forms part of an upmarket residential-cum-golf development
in one of the best locations in the Western Cape.
From a golfing point of view, the setting is ideal, because the area is
almost completely protected from the south-easterly wind.
Designed by the Gary Player Design Company with extensive sod
layering in bunker faces; wide, gently undulating kikuyu fairways,
Penn Cross greens; water on six holes. The rough is well kept and
playable. The views from the golf course are unsurpassable. Erinvale
Golf Club, nestled at the foothills of the Helderberg and Hottentots
Holland Mountains in Somerset West is one of South Africa's great
golfing challenges. This course was the venue for the 1996 World
Cup of Golf, and the 2003 & 2004 South African Open Championship.
Erinvale's beautifully manicured par 72 championship course boasts
some of the most challenging and spectacular golf holes. Erinvale's
breathtaking mountain and sea views are an integral part of this
unforgettable golfing experience. Erinvale's demanding front nine
meanders through parkland terrain, whilst the back nine provide a
contrasting challenge as it winds its way through the foothills of the
mountains with panoramic views of False Bay. Erinvale borders on the
Helderberg Nature Reserve, in fact a portion of the upper reaches of
the property has been incorporated into the reserve. The pro shop is
one of the finest and best equipped pro-shops in the country and
Johan Piek, the Head Professional, can advise you on equipment and
golf instruction. Despite being a private course it is still accessible to
the public. Rating: ***** Holes: 18 Par: 72 Length: 6505 meters.
TELEPHONE: +27 (0)21 847-1375
FAX: +27 (0)21 847-1024
EMAIL: kevin@erinvale.com
STELLENBOSCH GOLF CLUB
Stellenbosch Golf Course is situated at the foot of the imposing
Simonsberg mountain, close to the university and wine-making town of
Stellenbosch. This area is steeped in interesting history and is worth a
visit on its own.
Stellenbosch golf course is also described as one of the most scenic
courses in the whole of South Africa and it is easy to see why. The
golfer is treated to magnificent views of the surrounding mountains
and the famous vineyards that make this area the "Nappa Valley" of
South Africa.
This course is sheltered from the South-Easterly wind that can
sometimes create havoc for the amateur golfer, and an afternoon
round will award a player, superb views of the setting sun and Table
Mountain in the distance, whilst Helderberg and Stellenbosch
mountains form a spectacular backdrop close by.
TELEPHONE: +27 (0)21 880-0103/ 4
FAX: +27 (0)21 880-0260
STRAND GOLF CLUB
Beach Road, Strand. A widely held view among lovers of this great
game is that wind provides a good test for the golfer, and should be
regarded as a challenge to be endured and enjoyed. If you can
identify with this philosophy, then the Strand course is definitely the
place for you.
As Strand Golf Club is only separated from the sea by a narrow strip
of land along which Beach Road runs, it is no exaggeration to say this
championship course is exposed to fresh and strong breezes and
sometimes even gales. In fact, in honour of the wind, an annual
tournament called the 'Southeaster' is held here every April.
Strand is also known for its water features. The golfer will encounter
no less than 11 of them during a round. The course is not overly long,
especially off the club tees.
There is a bird sanctuary adjacent to the course, the Helderberg
mountains provide breathtaking backdrop and nearby Somerset West
and Gordon's Bay are sought-after resorts for sea, sun, scenery, fine
food and fine wine from the Cape's world-renowned vineyard just up
the road in Stellenbosch. With the Hottentots Holland mountain range
forming a splendid backdrop and only a short distance from the
beach, the Strand Golf Club offers a challenging layout. Although flat,
this par 72 of contrasting nines provides a demanding test of golf. The
course is renowned for its excellent greens and fairways (rated top
three in the Western Cape - 2002). A superb, modern clubhouse
offers all facilities: Excellent pub and service and catering for all
occasions. New, fully equipped Pro Shop (2002). Resident teaching
professional. Rating: 70 Holes: 18 Par: 72 Length: 5851 meters.
TELEPHONE: +27 (0)21 853-6268
FAX: +27 (0)21 854-6281
EMAIL: stragolf@iafrica.com
ARABELLA COUNTRY ESTATE
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
compliments the environment without disappointing the golfer, whether
expert or amateur.
Property owners will automatically acquire membership to the course
(two per dwelling). This includes the use of many amenities provided
by the club. The challenge and majesty of the course should provide
irresistible to the wider golfing fraternity. Of course you'll have more
time to practice.
The Arabella Country Estate is built on a terrain that rolls down the
banks of the Bot River. Designed by Peter Matkovich, the layout and
features are said to be of his best as he used the mountain backdrop,
lagoon, river and forests to compliment the design. The course was
voted 'Best New Course South Africa' in 1999
TELEPHONE: (028) 284 9383
FAX: (028) 284 9385
E-MAIL: arabella@mweb.co.za
DEVONVALE COUNTRY ESTATE
Bottelry Road, Koelenhof. Situated next to Hartenberg estate, outside
Stellenbosch, with mountains and wine farms as a backdrop, the
setting is indeed memorable.
The course is part hilly and part flat. The 423-metre par-four 17th -
stroke one on the card - tests both the golfer's power and skill. A
dogleg-left, the drive must be long and accurately hit to have any
chance of reaching the green in two.
TELEPHONE: +27 (0)21 882-2080
FAX: +27 (0)21 882-2113
PEARL VALLEY GOLF ESTATE
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! Type: Parklands golf course
Holes: 18
Par: 72
Length: Championship: 6511m
Club: 6090m
Ladies: 4703m
SPIER GOLF ESTATE
Spier Country Club, situated between Stellenbosch and Somerset, is
the only golf club in the world with its 19th hole in a wine cellar.The
6385m layout was designed by leading golf course designer,Peter
Matkovich. There are stunningly beautiful mountain views all around
the course complemented by the vineyards, orange groves and dams
through which the course meanders. Type: Combination of Links &
Parklands
Holes: 18
Par: 70
Length: Championship: 6385m
Club: 6385m
Men: 5937m
Ladies: 5138m
GOLF COURSES CLOSE BY INTERESTING LINKS
Arabella
+27 (028) 284-9383 World Golf
Atlantic Beach
+27 (021) 553-2221 Travel Golf
Bellville
+27 (021) 913-3100 Golfing SA
Boschenmeer
+27 (021) 863-1133 Woman's Golf SA
Clovelly
+27 (021) 782-1118 S A Golf Tours
Devonvale
+27 (021) 882-2080 S A Golf Handicaps
Durbanville
+27 (021) 976-8121
Erinvale
+27 (021) 847-1906
Fancourt
+27 (044) 804-0030
Milnerton
+27 (021) 552-1047
Mowbray
+27 (021) 685-3018
Parow
+27 (021) 930-2160
Rondebosch
+27 (021) 689-4176
Royal Cape
+27 (021) 761-6551
Somerset West
+27 (021) 852-2925
Spier
+27 (021) 881-3808
Stellenbosch
+27 (021) 880-0103
Strand
+27 (021) 853-6268
Westlake
+27 (021) 788-2020
Arabella
+27 (028) 284-9383 World Golf
Atlantic Beach
+27 (021) 553-2221 Travel Golf
Bellville
+27 (021) 913-3100 Golfing SA
Boschenmeer
+27 (021) 863-1133 Woman's Golf SA
Clovelly
+27 (021) 782-1118 S A Golf Tours
Devonvale
+27 (021) 882-2080 S A Golf Handicaps
Durbanville
+27 (021) 976-8121
Erinvale
+27 (021) 847-1906
Fancourt
+27 (044) 804-0030
Milnerton
+27 (021) 552-1047
Mowbray
+27 (021) 685-3018
Parow
+27 (021) 930-2160
Rondebosch
+27 (021) 689-4176
Royal Cape
+27 (021) 761-6551
Somerset West
+27 (021) 852-2925
Spier
+27 (021) 881-3808
Stellenbosch
+27 (021) 880-0103
Strand
+27 (021) 853-6268
Westlake
+27 (021) 788-2020
