Garden Route, South Africa
Tee off: the Garden Route’s 5 premier golf courses
Swing into South Africa’s Garden Route: unmissable golf courses
Golfing along South Africa‘s Garden Route is nothing short of extraordinary. This stretch of coastline offers not just a round of golf, but an experience shaped by jaw-dropping landscapes, carefully designed courses and an undeniable sense of escape. It’s the kind of place where every swing is accompanied by ocean breezes, mountain views or the calm sound of a nearby lagoon. We’ve explored some of the most impressive spots where golf becomes more than a sport – it’s an adventure. Let’s tee off on a journey through the Garden Route’s top golf courses!
01
The Links
Set in the heart of George, The Links at Fancourt sets a high bar for golf experiences. This privately-owned, championship course is the brainchild of golfing legend Gary Player, who designed it to mimic the classic links courses of Scotland. From the moment we stepped onto its carefully curated fairways, we could see why it’s consistently ranked among South Africa’s top courses. Its signature undulating dunes and fescue grasses, combined with breathtaking views of the Outeniqua Mountains, create an atmosphere that feels both rugged and refined. The clubhouse complements the experience perfectly, offering luxurious post-round amenities and gourmet dining.
The Links
Fancourt
Montagu St
Blanco
George
South Africa
Photography courtesy of The Links
02
Pinnacle Point Golf Course
Situated dramatically on a clifftop overlooking the Indian Ocean, Pinnacle Point Golf Course offers a golfing experience unlike any other. Designed by the renowned Peter Matkovich, in collaboration with pro golfer Darren Clarke, this course isn’t just one of the region’s most visually striking – it’s a test of skill, precision and patience. The layout flows seamlessly over rugged cliffs and indigenous vegetation, with each hole strategically placed to maximise the natural contours while providing a fun yet challenging game. The iconic 7th hole, perhaps the most photographed in South African golf, dares players to tee off across a deep gorge to reach the green – a nerve-wracking and exhilarating shot. Opened in 2006, Pinnacle Point was soon recognised as one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world, earning awards both locally and internationally. And it’s easy to see why.
Pinnacle Point Golf Course
194 Mossel St
D`Almeida
Mossel Bay
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Pinnacle Point Golf Course
03
Pezula Golf Estate
Pezula Golf Estate boasts a championship course, designed by Ronald Fream and David Dale, which merges challenges with breathtaking views. From the first tee, we were struck by the panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, Knysna Lagoon and rolling fynbos-covered hills. This course isn’t just about aesthetics though. Narrow, well-planned fairways and tiered greens keep even the best golfers focused. One hole that really stayed with us was the par-4 6th, which twists its way through natural ridges, forcing strategy over power. But it’s the par-5 13th that steals the show, offering a downhill tee shot with views so vast you might forget about your club for a moment.
Pezula Golf Estate
1 Admiralty Avenue
Sparrebosch
Knysna
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Pezula Golf estate
04
Simola Golf Course
Jack Nicklaus left his mark on the Garden Route with the Simola Golf Course, a course that’s as strategic as it is scenic. Set on the slopes above Knysna, it offers sweeping views of the lagoon and the Outeniqua Mountains. Elevation changes make for some interesting tee shots – we loved the risk-reward opportunities they created. It’s a course that demands careful thinking, but the stunning surroundings make it an absolute pleasure to play. The luxurious clubhouse welcomes you post-game with delicious meals or a drink to toast your round. We highly recommend staying at Simola Golf and Country Estate, the estate boasts five-star amenities, including a spa and spacious lodges. The seamless integration of a world-class course with stunning scenery and elevated service makes Simola feel like a golfer’s paradise – one we’d return to in a heartbeat.
Simola Golf Course
1 Oldcate Road
Knysna
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Simola Golf Course
05
Oubaai Golf Estate
Situated near Herolds Bay, Oubaai Golf Estate is Ernie Els’ first signature course in South Africa. Designed by the legendary Ernie Els, this 18-hole championship course is South Africa’s first links-style layout, blending vast open fairways with coastal winds that challenge golfers of all levels. The course is cleverly designed to maximize the surrounding beauty. Each hole surprises with a new perspective, from rolling hills to sweeping cliffside views, ensuring no two moments feel the same. The signature 17th hole, a par-3 set against dramatic ocean cliffs, had us pausing to take it all in before attempting the shot. The clubhouse offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy a post-game drink or make a weekend out of your golfing adventure and book a stay at the adjacent Oubaai Hotel Golf & Spa.
Oubaai Golf Estate
406 Herolds Bay Rd
George
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Oubaai Golf Estate
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