For exceptional South Africa golf at a UNESCO heritage site with stunning views of the Kogelberg Mountains, it has to be Arabella. The Pete Mattovich design here occupies one of the most diverse environmental areas in the world.
The Estate is part of the 100,000-hectare Kogelberg Biosphere, home to some of the most complex biodiversity on the planet, including the elusive Blue Crane. The 18-hole championship course runs along the edge of the Bot River Lagoon, offering stunning views.
Since opening in 1998, the Arabella Golf Club in South Africa has consistently ranked in the country’s top ten courses. It was also the host of the Nelson Mandela Invitational from 2000 to 2006 before being renamed the Gary Player Invitational until 2008.
The 8th hole is considered one of the most beautiful Par 5s in South Africa, with the green appearing to cut into the lagoon. After play, relax in luxurious accommodations or indulge in fine dining with an outstanding collection of South African wines. To really unwind, experience the rejuvenating spa and exclusive treatments using local African products.
Arabella combines one of South Africa’s best golf courses with one of its top ecological zones. The Arabella Golf Club offers players an unbeatable combination of coastal links and parkland golf in a single round.
The club gained international fame as the host of the Nelson Mandela invitational, which drew golfing legends such as Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus. The golf course at Arabella is well known for its risk-and-reward holes and breathtaking scenery.
Arabella has a single course, a par-72 championship-level layout designed by Peter Maykovich that tries to maximize the use of the land. Arabella is well known for smoothly transitioning between parkland, links, and coastal styles.
The whole layout follows a theme of balance, with opening holes climbing away from the hotel before descending towards the finishing holes on the lagoon side. Famous holes include the par 5 8th and the par 5 18th, with the latter being considered to be one of the best finishing holes in all of South Africa.
Located only 90 minutes from Capetown this section of the shore is referred to as The Whale Coast and during certain times of the year whale watching is a must-participate activity.
Exclusive to the area is what they refer to as fynbos – areas that exhibit an exceptional degree of biodiversity and endemism – it is the smallest of the world’s six identified floral kingdoms and has about 80% of the plant species of South Africa within it.
The fynbos here comprise over 3,500 species of marine life and 1,800 flora species – 77 of which are found nowhere else in the world.
The fynbos is a very important element that is woven into the culture of the region. So important it is incorporated into Arabella’s tagline – Arabella – home to fynbos & fine living.
The Arabella Golf Club is about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Cape Town International Airport. You can take the N2 route, which is the fastest, or Clarence Drive/R44, which takes 90 minutes but is much more scenic.
It is highly recommended to book a car or hire a private transfer because public transportation in this area and towards Arabella is incredibly limited.
Immerse yourself in the Rainbow nation, and discover the best of South Africa on this luxury 12-night tour.
Golfers will play the best courses in the country, including Pearl Valley, Leopard Creek, and Fancourt.
Sample some of the world’s finest wines, and enjoy game drives in the Kruger National Park.
The Arabella Country Estate offers sophisticated accommodations designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty of South Africa’s Western Cape. Spacious, elegantly appointed rooms and suites feature contemporary finishes, luxurious amenities, and private balconies or terraces with stunning lagoon, garden, or mountain views. Complemented by exceptional dining, a renowned spa, and warm South African hospitality, Arabella provides a peaceful retreat, making it the ideal destination for a luxury golf getaway.
Arabella Golf Course welcomes guests of the hotel and visitors, but enforces quite strict policies due to it being one of the more elite courses in the country.
Guests receive priority stay and play rates at the onsite hotel, but green fees for international visitors to the course rarely go above $100. Bookings can be made one year in advance and require a full pre-payment to be confirmed.
Arabella enforces a traditional golf dress code: collared golf shirts (tucked in) and tailored golf trousers or shorts. Golf shoes with soft spikes are preferred,d and socks are mandatory.
Handicap certificates are not always checked, but it is recommended that visitors carry one.
South Africa is a large country, and the courses are quite spread out. However, there are some good courses nearby and some truly amazing golf experiences for those willing to travel a little bit more.
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Arabella Country Estate; Arabella Golf Course
Arabella Country Estate, R44, Kleinmond, Western Cape, South Africa
Course opened late 1990s
Resort and golf estate operate most of the year with daily tee times.
Arabella Golf Course – 18 holes, par 72; Peter Matkovich design along the Bot River Lagoon with mountain backdrop; mixture of parkland and links influenced holes with water in play on several fairways.
Connected to the Arabella Hotel and Spa with accommodation, spa, dining and outdoor activities including hiking and water sports.
Frequently features in rankings of South Africa’s top courses and has hosted professional and high level amateur events.
Hermanus Golf Club and several courses around the Cape Winelands and Western Cape coast.
Arabella Golf Course is situated near Hermanus, South Africa, along the scenic Garden Route.
Yes, golf carts are available for use at Arabella Golf Course to help navigate the course’s rolling terrain.
Arabella is home to one exceptional 18-hole championship course, consistently ranked among South Africa’s top courses.
The par-5 2nd hole is considered more forgiving, offering generous fairways and a straightforward approach to the green.
The best time to visit is during South Africa’s summer months, from November to March, when the weather is ideal for golf.
Yes, Arabella is designed to challenge skilled golfers while still being accessible for players of all abilities.
Yes, the Arabella Hotel & Spa provides luxury accommodations just steps from the golf course. This is included in Premier Golf’s package.
