With our incredible and varied landscape, it’s no surprise that South Africa is one of the top golf destinations. From ocean views to safari vibes, here are some of the best local golf courses to explore.
Whether you’re an avid golfer, or just tagging along for fun, there’s no denying that spending time on a beautiful golf course is good for the soul. Luckily we have some of the most spectacular golf courses around the country. If you’re looking for your next epic getaway in your Suzuki, it’s well worth aiming for a round of golf at one of the courses listed below, no matter your experience level.
1. Leopard Creek Country Club Malelane, Mpumalanga
Bordering the Kruger National Park in, Leopard Creek hosts the annual Alfred Dunhill Championship. The manicured greens wind their alongside the Crocodile River creating an eye-catching contrast with the untamed African bush.
Golfers are often treated to sightings of buck, hippo and crocodiles as they play their way across the course. Naturally, there are safety measures in place, but it’s probably not advised to go in search of your ball if it lands too far outside the green, or in the river.
Leopard Creek also offers a unique club house overlooking the river and surrounds where golfers can enjoy sundowners surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery SA has to offer.
Suzuki tip: while all our vehicles are ready for adventure, the Suzuki Jimny will be an excellent choice for your golf excursion to Leopard Creek. If you decide to make a weekend of it the Jimny is the perfect choice to do some exploring in the bush.
If you’re going with a larger group, the Suzuki XL6 will easily accommodate all your golf gear and plenty of snacks for an early morning game drive.
2. Fancourt: George, Western Cape
Fancourt is arguably one of the most famous golf destinations in South Africa. Located in George, Western Cape, Fancourt boasts three golf courses designed by the famous Gary Player himself.
The Links is considered the most challenging and is a bucket list course for everyone who loves the game. The Montagu promises a good mix of challenges with some areas being a bit more forgiving. If you’re new to golf, or just looking for a relaxing game, the Outeniqua course should be your first choice.
That said, golf is meant to be fun, so if you have the time, why not play all three? All Fancourt courses are surrounded by breathtaking scenery ranging from mountains and forests to the wide open ocean.
To be honest, even if you’ve never played golf, this beautiful location is meant to be experienced. So, grab some clubs and just go for the views if you want.
Suzuki tip: depending on how many of you are going, the Suzuki S-presso or Fronx would be ideal for a coastal golf adventure. That said, we think the Suzuki Swift will look very sexy in the Fancourt parking lot, so book a tee-off time and grab your keys.
3. St. Francis Links, St Francis Bay, Eastern Cape
Not to be left out, the Eastern Cape is home to the picturesque St. Francis Links. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, St. Francis Links is the perfect location for a relaxing game followed by a delicious meal at the onsite restaurant.
St. Francis Links has won numerous awards as one of the top golf courses in SA. Overlooking the peaceful town of St. Francis is the perfect choice for those who want to leave the noise behind and enjoy the quiet of the green.
Visitors can also enjoy luxurious spa facilities, nature walks, and beautiful accommodation. If it’s time to take a break from the chaos, St. Francis Links is the perfect choice.
Suzuki tip: we think the Suzuki Grand Vitara or sleek Baleno would both fit in with a relaxed golfing trip. Both have excellent boot space, all the modern comforts, and are equally happy on the long road or exploring the coastal streets of St. Francis Bay.
4. Blair Atholl Golf & Equestrian Estate, Lanseria, Gauteng
Blair Atholl is a hidden gem in Gauteng. It is situated on Gary Player’s original farm and offers thousands of acres of peaceful estate living and one of the best golf courses in the country.
Spanding over 7 500 meters, the Blair Atholl Golf Course is currently the third longest course in the world. The course is designed in a loop around the estate and boasts 11 water features. It’s known for being an excellent course for beginners to work on their game while also offering handicapped players some epic challenges to hone their skills.
The idyllic surroundings seem a world away from the bustle of Gauteng, but it’s close enough for a quick afternoon or weekend round.
The Blair Atholl Clubhouse offers a variety of dining options including the Village Green which is ideal for families and boisterous children.
Suzuki tip: your daily city slicker such as the Suzuki Dzire will be the perfect choice for a quick round of golf after work, or if you decide to make it a family outing on the weekend.
5. Arabella Golf Club, Kleinmond, Western Cape
Situated near Hermanus in the Western Cape, Arabella Golf course offers unmatched scenery. On the edge of the Bot River Lagoon it is a 72-par 18-hole course that overlooks the Kogelberg mountains covered in fynbos.
Designed by Peter Matkovich the Arabella Golf Course combines some tricky water hazards and sandtraps, and is famous for its 8th hole that lies right on the lagoon.
Arabella is a combination course that is enjoyed by novices and pros alike, with scenery that absolutely justifies all the hype.
Other amenities include luxury accommodation, dining and spa facilities. And, as it’s located in Hermanus, there are endless exploring options in the area.
Suzuki tip: If you’re making a family holiday of it, the Suzuki Grand Vitara is always an excellent choice. If your vehicle taste runs more along the lines of ‘sleek’ than SUV, we think the Ciaz would fit right in with the beautiful surroundings.
Conclusion
If you’re already a golfer, we hope this post helps with choosing the next course you’d like to tackle. If you’re a novice golfer, or the official moral supporter, these golf courses are too spectacular to miss.
No matter which Suzuki you drive, all of the golf destinations on this list are ideal locations for your next getaway.