The Ultimate Golf Tour Along South Africa’s Garden Route

Few places on Earth offer the blend of natural beauty, world-class golf, and cultural richness quite like the Garden Route South Africa.

Stretching from the vibrant city of Cape Town to the laid-back charm of Port Elizabeth, this iconic coastal drive is often considered the most breathtaking journey in the world. Beyond the dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and lush forests lies a golfer’s paradise. Championship courses meet five-star lodges, local cuisine, and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters.

This guide is crafted for travelers with a passion for the game and a taste for adventure. From teeing off with ocean views to exploring charming towns and encountering the Big Five, the Garden Route promises a luxurious and immersive experience both on and off the course.

What is the Garden Route South Africa?

The Garden Route in South Africa is a stunning 300-kilometer coastal stretch from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth, renowned as one of the world’s most scenic drives. It winds through dramatic landscapes showcasing lush forests, rugged cliffs, tranquil lagoons, and golden beaches. A dream setting for a golf adventure.

Charming towns dot the route, including Knysna with its famous Heads, Plettenberg Bay for beachside luxury, Mossel Bay with its rich maritime history, and Wilderness, known for its peaceful rivers and forests.

The ideal time to visit is September to May, when the weather is mild and perfect for golf, sightseeing, and soaking up the coastal charm.

Beyond the course, highlights include the dramatic beauty of Tsitsikamma National Park, the awe-inspiring Cango Caves, and panoramic views from the Knysna Heads.

Top Garden Route Golf Courses

Explore the best garden route golf courses for all skill levels:

Fancourt (George) 

Montagu, Outeniqua, The Links all Gary Player designer courses Fancourt is the Garden Route’s premier golf destination, featuring three Gary Player-designed courses: Montagu, Outeniqua, and the iconic Links. 

While Montagu and Outeniqua offer lush, scenic parkland layouts, The Links, ranked South Africa’s #1 course, is a dramatic, links-style challenge inspired by the greats of Scotland and Ireland.

Pinnacle Point (Mossel Bay) 

Set atop dramatic coastal cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, Pinnacle Point is one of the most visually striking courses in South Africa. Designed by Peter Matkovich in collaboration with Premier Golf’s own Darren Clarke, the course blends natural beauty with serious challenge. Wind is a constant factor here, adding to the difficulty and rewarding precise shot-making.

Simola Golf & Country Estate (Knysna) 

Tucked into the lush forests above Knysna, Simola offers a serene escape with sweeping views of the lagoon and surrounding hills. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, the course features elevated fairways, strategic bunkering, and a tranquil, parkland-style layout that feels both refined and relaxed.

Pezula Championship Golf Course (Knysna) 

Perched high above the Indian Ocean, Pezula delivers dramatic coastal views paired with five-star amenities. Located right on the Garden Route, this championship course blends luxury with challenge, offering top-tier facilities, a scenic layout, and impeccable service. It’s a popular stop, so booking ahead is highly recommended.

Arabella (near Hermanus) 

Consistently ranked among South Africa’s top courses, Arabella is well worth the detour. Set alongside the Bot River Lagoon, it offers stunning water views, pristine fairways, and a challenging layout that rewards smart play. Just outside Hermanus, it’s a standout stop for any Garden Route golf itinerary.

Pearl Valley (Franschhoek) 

For those starting their journey in Cape Town, Pearl Valley is a top-tier option just a short drive away. Designed by Gary Player and set in the heart of the Cape Winelands, the course offers immaculate fairways, mountain views, and easy access to world-class wine estates, making it a perfect blend of championship golf and vineyard charm.

Leopard Creek (Mpumalanga) 

Though located outside the Garden Route in Mpumalanga, Leopard Creek is often featured in extended South African golf itineraries—and with good reason. Set on the edge of Kruger National Park, this elite course offers an unmatched blend of championship golf and safari adventure.

St Francis Links (St Francis Bay)

Just beyond the eastern edge of the Garden Route, St Francis Links is a Jack Nicklaus-designed gem that ranks among South Africa’s top courses. Its traditional links-style layout features rolling terrain, fast greens, and ever-present coastal winds. Though slightly off the main route, it’s a frequent addition to premium golf itineraries thanks to its authentic South African links experience and laid-back clubhouse atmosphere.

What the Experts Say About Golfing the Garden Route

“Fancourt has three excellent golf courses and my favorite is, of course, The Links. Walking it with one of the excellent caddies is as good as it gets! Fun fact: once I was there with my Uncle Bob and he made a hole-in-one at Fancourt … such a great memory.”

“Leopard Creek Country Club is one of the most exclusive courses in South Africa and is located just outside of Kruger National Park. We’ve teamed with some local safari lodges where our Premier Golf travelers can get on the course and experience this fantastic club. You might even see some wildlife on the course, but we encourage everyone to stay away from the crocodiles and hippos should your tee shot find the water!”

Bill Hogan, Business Development Manager

South Africa on the Global Golfing Stage

South Africa took center stage in the golfing world during the 2003 Presidents Cup at Fancourt, when Ernie Els and Tiger Woods battled to a dramatic tie in a sudden-death playoff. The high-stakes showdown drew global attention and showcased the country’s ability to host world-class events.

This moment, paired with South Africa’s legacy of producing icons like Gary Player, Ernie Els, and Louis Oosthuizen, elevated its profile in the golf world. Since then, interest in golf tourism has surged, especially along the scenic Garden Route.

Unforgettable Experiences Off the Fairway Along the Garden Route

There’s so much more to the Garden Route than golf. This stretch of South Africa is bursting with unforgettable adventures. Sip crisp whites and bold reds in the vineyards of Stellenbosch or along the laid-back Garden Route Wine Route. Craving something wilder? A quick detour gets you face-to-trunk with elephants at Addo or on a sunset game drive at Botlierskop.

Time it right (June to November), and you might catch Southern Right whales breaching off the coast in Hermanus or Plettenberg Bay. And when it comes to food, the Garden Route delivers: think just-caught seafood, spiced Cape Malay curries, and biltong for the road.

Some of the best Garden Route highlights happen beyond the fairways.

Top Luxury Lodges and Resorts for Golfers in South Africa

Fancourt Hotel & The Manor House (George)

For golfers seeking luxury along the Garden Route, Fancourt Hotel & The Manor House in George is a top choice. Set on the Fancourt Golf Estate, it offers direct access to three championship courses: Montagu, Outeniqua, and the acclaimed Links. Guests can enjoy elegant rooms, multiple dining venues, a full-service spa, and personalized service at the exclusive Manor House. It’s the perfect blend of five-star comfort and world-class golf in a scenic, tranquil setting.

Pezula Nature Retreat (Knysna)

Located next to the Pezula Championship Golf Course, Pezula Nature Retreat in Knysna offers a peaceful, upscale escape for golf travelers. The retreat features elegant suites, a luxurious wellness spa, gourmet dining, and sweeping views of the Knysna Lagoon. With direct access to one of the Garden Route’s top golf courses, it’s an ideal base for those seeking both relaxation and rewarding rounds.

Simola Hotel Country Club & Spa (Knysna)

Perched within the Simola Golf & Country Estate, Simola Hotel Country Club & Spa offers modern luxury in a spectacular natural setting. Guests enjoy spacious suites, a full-service spa, fine dining, and sweeping views over the Knysna River Valley. With direct access to a Jack Nicklaus course, it’s a perfect pairing of refined comfort and championship golf in the heart of the Garden Route.

CliffBreak Villa (Pezula Golf Estate, Knysna)

Nestled within the Pezula Golf Estate, CliffBreak Villa offers a private, eco-friendly retreat with sweeping ocean views. This stylish villa combines modern amenities with sustainable design, making it a perfect choice for travelers who value both comfort and conscious living. With direct access to Pezula Championship Golf Course, it’s an ideal base for those seeking privacy, luxury, and a coastal connection.

Oubaai Hotel Golf & Spa (Herolds Bay)

Overlooking the Ernie Els–designed Oubaai Golf Course in Herolds Bay, Oubaai Hotel Golf & Spa delivers a seamless mix of coastal charm and golfing excellence. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a full-service wellness spa, and dining with sweeping ocean views. It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking to unwind in style while staying steps away from a top-tier course.

Protea Hotel by Marriott George King George

Located near George Golf Club and just a short drive from Fancourt, the Protea Hotel by Marriott George King George offers a comfortable and convenient stay for golf travelers. 

With well-appointed rooms, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant, it provides a relaxed atmosphere at an affordable price, making it an ideal base for exploring multiple courses along the Garden Route.

Booking Tips for Your Garden Route Golf Tour

When planning your Garden Route golf tour, you can either go the DIY route or work with a specialist tour operator. 

Premier Golf offers luxury packages that include curated itineraries, preferred tee times, premium accommodations, and seamless transfers, perfect for travelers looking for a high-end, stress-free experience. 

If you’re up for doing the legwork, self-planning can offer more flexibility and potentially lower costs. The best times to visit are between September and November or February and April, when the weather is mild and the crowds are light. Green fees vary by course but typically range from R500 to R2,500 per round (roughly £20–£100).

Travel Advice for the Garden Route

Exploring the Garden Route is best done by car, offering the freedom to visit golf courses and scenic stops at your own pace. 

Hiring a car in Cape Town and dropping it off in Port Elizabeth is a popular route. South Africans drive on the left-hand side, and roads are generally in good condition, but it’s wise to avoid driving at night. 

For longer distances, domestic flights connect Cape Town, George, and Port Elizabeth. To stay safe, stick to daylight travel, choose secure accommodations, and follow local advice. For added ease and peace of mind, consider travel insurance and pre-booked airport transfers, especially if you’re arriving late or carrying golf equipment.

South African Golf Tour Packages

Premier Golf offers a selection of expertly curated South African Golf Tour packages designed to showcase the very best of the Garden Route. From luxury accommodation and private transfers to pre-booked tee times and insider access, every detail is taken care of so you can focus on the game, the scenery, and the experience.

Let us handle the logistics while you enjoy a seamless, stress-free golf adventure along one of the world’s most spectacular coastlines.

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