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30 Sep 2014 | By Sun International

Explore South Africa’s Legendary Golf Courses

Get golfing with Sun International

There's no greater way to experience South Africa's natural beauty than from the tee-off points of the spectacular Sun International golf courses. Apart from the United States, South Africa has more golf courses than any other country in the world. We're also the birthplace of legends Bobby Locke, Ernie Els, Retief Goosen, and Gary Player.

So where to start your golfing adventure? First stop: Sun City Resort, where you'll be treated to a hole-in-two (ah-ha!) at the Gary Player Country Club, as well as the neighbouring Lost City Country Club. Then it's off to the gentle hills of the Royal Swazi golf course in the Kingdom of Swaziland, before taking your clubs to the Fish River Country Club that's located between Port Elizabeth and East London. Finish off your tour at the beach, at the rolling coastal greens of the Wild Coast Sun.

The Gary Player Country Club

The Gary Player Golf Course is often ranked in the top golf courses in South Africa, and is one of the most recognisable courses in the world; you've probably seen its bunkers on TV when you're watching the annual Nedbank Golf Challenge. At 6 550m, it's a long and challenging course.

Details: An 18-hole, par-72, walking course, designed by its namesake (and nine times Major winner) Gary Player.
Did you know? The Nedbank Golf Challenge was the first-ever golf tournament to offer US$1 million in prize money, way back in 1981.
Where? Sun City Resort, North-West Province

The Lost City Country Club

Next door to the Gary Player Golf Course, and a short walk from the Palace of the Lost City, the Lost City course will give you a completely different impression. Situated at the foot of the Pilanesberg Mountains, with scenic bushveld surrounds, the Lost City course has tested the skill of many a fine golfer to march its 6 983m length. Look out for the 13th hole, it's a water hazard that's home to live Nile crocodiles!

Details: An 18-hole, par-72, desert-style course, also designed by Gary Player.
Where? Sun City Resort, North-West Province

The Royal Swazi Spa Country Club

There is something magical about the way that the mists curl over the Kikuyu grass greens at the Royal Swazi Golf Course. A 4 hour drive from Johannesburg, make a weekend of it and practice your swing in Ezulwini Valley, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world.

Details: An 18-hole, par-72, Parkland-style course that was first opened in 1968, and revamped by prolific local golf course designer Peter Matkovich.
Did you know? The Royal Swazi Spa Country Club hosts two Sunshine Tour events, the Royal Swazi Sun Open and the Lombard Insurance Classic.
Where? Royal Swazi Spa Valley, Mbabane, Swaziland

The Fish River Country Club

Located 30 minutes outside of the marina town of Port Alfred in the Eastern Cape, the Fish River golf course is cut across by the Old Women's River, which makes for some challenging holes, especially the 16th, where you cross a wooden bridge during play. Don't let the views of the sparkling Indian Ocean distract you, keep your eye on the ball!

Details: An 18-hole, par-72, Parkland-style course, once again designed by Gary Player.
Did you know? Gary Player has designed over 300 golf courses world wide.
Where? Fish River Sun Hotel & Country Club Resort, Eastern Cape

The Wild Coast Sun Country Club

Imagine playing a shot across a waterfall to a green hidden by the brush! At 5329m the Wild Coast Sun golf course is a carts-only course, but don't be fooled into thinking you'll have an easy game of it. The 13th is called the "Green Mamba" due to its elongated shape and it's just as treacherous as its namesake. Adding to the challenge is prevailing wind conditions – coastal winds are unpredictable, and not always in your favour. You'll be rewarded for your commitment to the game with some of the most gorgeous views across the Indian Ocean.

Details: An 18-hole, par-72 carts-only coastal course, designed by American Robert Trent Jones Jnr, who is one of the world's most controversial and dynamic golf course designers.
Did you know? The Compleat Golfer describes the Wild Coast Sun as having one of the most "spectacular layouts in the world".
Where? Wild Coast Sun, Eastern Cape

To find out more about the exceptional golfing activities available at Sun International resorts and hotels, see here.