Picturesque Peaks and Par 5s
Dedicated golfers will argue that a little bad weather is no match for their love of the game and their need to wander the fairways on a regular basis. But many, I am sure, would agree that the arrival of warmer weather certainly makes indulging in their favourite pursuit that much more pleasant. And what better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than by teeing off from some of the country’s most picturesque golf courses, nestled in the heart of the magnificent KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg Mountains?
Champagne Sports Resort
Situated in the central Drakensberg with Cathkin and Champagne Peaks in the background, this championship golf course not only boasts one of the most scenic settings in the country, but also the longest hole in South Africa. At 605 m, the signature first hole has been described as a “par-5 monster”, and will challenge and thrill amateurs and seasoned professionals alike. The remainder of this 18 hole course (designed by Huch Biaocchi) promises generously wide fairways with a liberal sprinkling of bunkers and water hazards, plus the ever present danger of being constantly distracted by the stunning view. Visit http://www.champagnesportsresort.com/ for more information.
Cathedral Peak Hotel
Opened in 1996, this pristine 9 hole golf course offers alternate tees for those seeking a full 18 hole game, and has been described as a challenging course perfect for the “thinking golfer”. When not spending your time getting to grips with this par 70 course, you can grab a drink and admire the view from Philip’s Pholy pub, or explore the scenic surroundings a bit more. The hotel offers daily guided hikes (including a challenging one to the summit of nearby Cathedral Peak), or guests can choose to enjoy the view from the back of a horse or from atop a mountain bike instead. For more information, visit http://www.cathedralpeak.co.za/.
Monks Cowl
If you enjoy log fires, cosy pubs, fresh mountain air and only the best of country hospitality, then it is worth checking out and checking into the Monk’s Cowl Country Lodge. It is picturesquely situated with its namesake, Monk’s Cowl, in the background, and lodge guests get the added benefit of free access to the golf course included in their stay. This par 72 course boasts 9 holes and 18 tees, with wide kikuyu-planted fairways. The 5th hole, in particular, is a treat, as it includes a deep gorge accessed by a swing bridge that will have golfers testing their aim and their balance! Visit http://www.monkscowl.co.za/ for more information.
Sani Pass
Fans of swing bridges and gushing rivers will also enjoy the 9 hole, 18 tee golf course at the Sani Pass Hotel high in the mountains that border neighbouring Lesotho. The course is laid out along the Mkhomozana River, and the tranquil and stunning surroundings easily offset the challenges of narrow fairways, tricky river crossings and playing in high altitude conditions. Plus, at such an elevation, you are unlikely to find a more perfect vantage point to truly take in the magnificence of the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park – a very worthy recipient of its World Heritage Status. For more information visit http://www.sanipasshotel.co.za/.
Story by Rebecca Johnson
