Johannesburg golfer Hugh Baiocchi designed the 18-hole championship course at Champagne Sports Resort and it first opened for play in 1997.
Champagne Sports
Johannesburg golfer Hugh Baiocchi designed the 18-hole championship course at Champagne Sports Resort and it first opened for play in 1997.
Johannesburg golfer Hugh Baiocchi – well respected member of the European Tour in the 1970s and 1980s – designed the 18-hole championship course at Champagne Sports Resort and it first opened for play in 1997.
Located in the Drakensberg mountain region between Johannesburg and Durban, the golf course here is one of several outdoor pursuits on offer at a 122-bedroomed hotel complex, including fishing, mountain biking, hiking and horse riding.
It is easy to see that no expense was spared in setting up the course – greens were sown with L93 bent-grass, fairways with kikuyu grass and bunkers lined with white Bronkhorstspruit sand , providing a well balanced test over 7,363 yards from the back tees.
With the Champagne and Cathkin Peaks as a spectacular backdrop, teeing it up in the mountains here is an exhilarating experience that really should be sampled during a golfing getaway trip!
In this short extract from the book he co-authored with Jamie Thom entitled South Africa’s Greatest Golf Destinations, Stuart McLean writes:
“Golf of this stature and quality of conditioning is a relatively new experience in the Drakensberg, where for many years the courses were predominantly of the shortish 9-hole variety like neighbouring Monks Cowl, its fairways firm and fast in the winter months.
Champagne Sports, which graduated from a 9-holer in the late 1990s to a 6,700-metre layout, has kikuyu fairways and bent grass greens that retain their colour all year, even if the surroundings turn brown after the first frosts – making it both a summer and winter golfing destination.”
The latest ranking of the Top 100 Golf Courses in the World serves as the ultimate global golf bucket list. Most members of our World Top 100 Panel are seasoned golfers, each playing 20-30 of these courses annually while travelling extensively over decades to form their opinions on others. We recognise that opinions vary—even among our panel members. Rankings are subjective, and there are undoubtedly 50 or more courses in the UK and USA alone that could easily fit onto this list. Links Golf Pilgrimages The rankings
California, United States
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Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
New York, United States
New York, United States
Top 100 Golf Courses of South Africa 2024 The first chart that we produced for South Africa was a Top 50 back in 2008. We then doubled the number of courses to a hundred in the following iteration of the listings and this now is the sixth edition of our Top 100 rankings for the Rainbow Nation. In this revision, forty-seven courses move up, forty-three drop down, six remain in the same place and four drop out, replaced by four newcomers. Don’t forget, our coverage also extends down to provincial level so we have a total of 140 courses featured across nine geographical regions within the country. Let’s crack on right away and look at some of the highlights from the top down. Fancourt The Links course at Fancourt was our South Africa #1 from 2016 to 2021 before it was usurped by the Country Club course at Durban Country Club but it regains the top spot once again, moving up one place from the runner-up position. Host venue for the Presidents Cup in 2003, this wonderful Gary Player layout is regarded as one of the Black Knight’s finest designs. Just a couple of months ago a reviewer wrote: “the course is visually outstanding, the only hole you see is the one you are playing…some of the championship tees are not for the faint hearted and not even offered for play to mere mortals, although maintained meticulously… a good experience and solid golf course.” The Montagu course at Fancourt rises an impressive eight places to #4, its highest ever position in the national standings. This track was part of the original 27-hole layout at Fancourt which David McLay Kidd then upgraded in 2005. Further modifications were made six years ago, when all the greens were resurfaced with bent grass as part of the improvement programme. The reviewer above also made the following comments: “the course is a strong parkland layout, certainly not a resort style of carefree golf, it demands the highest amount of concentration in order navigate, and continue momentum in the round… some really astounding par 3 holes throughout the layout, surrounded by water.” Pearl Valley Soaring nine places to #5, the 18-hole layout at Pearl Valley in the Cape Winelands region is a Jack Nicklaus production which was unveiled to the golfing world twenty years ago. Host venue for three editions of the South Africa Open between 2007 and 2009, the course was the second of six Nicklaus Signature designs that have opened in South Africa. Blair Atholl The Blair Atholl Golf & Equestrian Estate outside Johannesburg was Gary Player’s home for many years before the property was transformed into a residential development. The course that Gary designed returns to our elite Top 10 for the first time since 2014 (rising five to #10) with a reviewer last year describing it as “a long, stern test of golf” – and as it measures 7,500 metres from the back tees, we rather concur with that assessment! Champagne Sports The course at the Champagne Sports Resort in Central Drakensberg climbs twenty-one places to #28 in the new national chart. Hugh Baiocchi, the 1978 South African Open champion, designed the layout which debuted in the late 1990s, with the late architect Alasdair McLeod and club stalwart Trevor Livesey (who still serves the club) overseeing construction of the holes. Bryanston The elegant, well-tended 18-hole parkland layout at Bryanston Country Club in Sandton advances twenty-four places to #30. It’s a C.H. Alison design from the late 1940s – after the architect and his wife relocated from England to South Africa – with greens revamped by Rob O’Friel at the start of the new millennium to heighten the level of challenge. Steenberg Progressing twenty-two spots to #40, the course at Steenberg Golf Club outside Cape Town is a mid-1990s Peter Matkovich composition that recently hosted its first major tournaments when it staged the 2022 and 2023 editions of the South Africa Women’s Open. The golfing amenities on the property are complemented by a luxury boutique hotel, restaurants and a wine estate. Dainfern The largest upward move in our new SA standings is made by the Gary Player-designed course on the Dainfern Golf Estate in Sandton (up an incredible thirty-seven spots to #53) which is actually a revamped version of the original Fourways layout. The Jukskei River comes into play on several holes, with the par five 8th crossing this water hazard twice from tee to green. Paarl Moving up twenty-one rungs on the ladder to #71, the River and Paarl nines at Paarl Golf Club form the premier 18-hole course at a 27-hole facility which lies less than an hour’s drive east of Cape Town. Set within the Boschenmeer residential estate, the course is a 1990s David Frost redesign (along with architect Danie Obermeyer) and many of local hero Frost’s trophies are on display in the clubhouse. Parys Up twenty-three to #74, the course at Parys Golf & Country Estate in Free State province is a design from South African golfing great Cobie Le Grange and the late Douw van der Merwe. Routed in an old-fashioned out-and-back style, the layout lies on an island in the Vaal River, where players reach the tree-lined fairways via an old suspension bridge built in 1918. Mount Edgecombe The highest of four new entries arrives at #85 and it’s The Lakes course at Mount Edgecombe Country Club outside Durban. The Woods 18-hole layout – predating The Lakes by some 60 years – is the higher ranked course at this 36-hole facility but the younger course has more interesting topography with elevation changes and the large Pani Dam in the middle of the layout. The Lakes staged both the SA Men’s Amateur Strokeplay and SA Women’s Amateur events at the club last year. The other three chart newcomers are Kambaku [#90], Katberg [#94] and Waterkloof [#96]. The four layouts dropping out of the SA listings [with previous national ranking in brackets] are as follows: Durban (Country Club) – currently closed for renovation [#1], Durban (Beachwood) [#47], Worcester [#95] and Huddle Park [#100]. Click the following link to see the newly updated national rankings for South Africa. If you have any comment to make on the above article then please use the “WRITE A RESPONSE” link at the bottom of this page. Jim McCann Editor Top 100 Golf Courses
Other Courses Nearby Golf in South Africa is a celebrated affair, thanks to the country's stunning landscapes and excellent weather, making it a prime destination for golf enthusiasts. Among the top courses that stand out for their design, history, and unique challenges are Blair Atholl, Glendower, The River Club, Royal Johannesburg & Kensington (East), and Steyn City. Here is an introduction and a brief overview of each of these prestigious courses: Blair Atholl Golf Course Nestled in the serene landscape near Johannesburg, Blair Atholl Golf Course is a testament to luxury and challenge in golf. Designed by Gary Player, one of South Africa’s most famous golf icons, the course spans over 7,500 yards. Known for its lengthy play and the integration of natural features such as rivers and lakes, Blair Atholl combines beauty with the rigor of the sport. It's a private estate that exudes exclusivity and offers a tranquil escape with picturesque views at every turn. Glendower Golf Club Located in the heart of Edenvale, Glendower Golf Club is a classic parkland course known for its meticulous maintenance and historical significance. It was established in the early 1930s and has since hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including the South African Open. The course features well-placed bunkers and challenging water hazards, requiring precision and strategic play. The lush, rolling fairways and mature trees make it a visually appealing course as well. The River Club The River Club in Sandton is not just a golf club but a reimagined lifestyle complex. While it's more known for its high-profile corporate and social gatherings, the golf course itself offers a unique experience. It’s recently been redesigned to incorporate modern golfing trends while maintaining its classic charm. The River Club remains an exclusive venue, focusing on privacy and high standards of service. Royal Johannesburg & Kensington (East) The Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Club is one of the most prestigious golf clubs in South Africa, with a rich history dating back to 1890. The East Course is particularly renowned, regularly hosting the Joburg Open as part of both the PGA European Tour and Sunshine Tour. This course is characterised by its challenging layout, with long fairways, deep bunkers, and the infamous stretch known as the "East Beast". Its history and the quality of play make it a revered course among both local and international golfers. Steyn City Steyn City Parkland Residence is not only a luxury residential estate but also home to a magnificent golf course designed by the celebrated golfer, Jack Nicklaus. This course is famous for its beautiful landscaping and innovative design that respects the natural environment. It offers a challenging yet enjoyable game for golfers of all levels, with water features and strategic bunkering enhancing both the difficulty and the aesthetic appeal of the course. These courses not only highlight the variety and depth of golfing experiences available in South Africa but also underscore the country’s love for the sport, blending challenging gameplay with stunning environments. Find out more about travel to playModderfontein Golf Club Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive World Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel (Lockhart Travel Club). Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips.
Top 10 places to Eat and Drink Outside Erinvale Golf Course Magnolia Social Dining Lounge - This venue inside Erinvale Estate is noted for its elegant dining with a mix of French, African, and fusion cuisine, offering a luxurious experience. Henri's Restaurant & Wine Bar - Located close to the golf course, this restaurant is popular for its wide range of dishes and extensive wine selection. Stefan's Restaurant - Also within Erinvale Estate, this restaurant provides a unique degustation experience with a blend of African, French, and fusion dishes. Oak Terrace - Known for its authentic African cuisine, it's a perfect spot for experiencing local flavours in a scenic setting. Fancy Franks - A laid-back steakhouse and bar that's ideal for enjoying robust meals and drinks in a casual atmosphere. The Succulent Eatery - Set in a wine estate, it offers Mediterranean and fusion dishes in a charming environment. Mozambik Somerset West - Celebrated for its African and Portuguese seafood dishes, it provides a vibrant, themed dining experience. Steffanie's Place - Offers a blend of European and international cuisine, known for its scenic views and tranquil setting. D'vine Restaurant @ Willowbrook Lodge - This place is great for contemporary and international cuisine, situated in a tranquil lodge. 3 Kitch3ns Restaurant - Versatile dining with options ranging from sushi to pizza and steak, suitable for family outings. These establishments not only cater to various palates but also enhance the overall experience of visiting or staying near Erinvale Golf Course. Find out more about travel toErinvale Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive Worldwide Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel (Lockhart Travel Club). Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips
