Umdoni Park - Kwazulu Natal - South Africa

Umdoni Park, named after the indigenous tree of the same name, was established as a Trust by sugar magnate Sir Frank Reynolds back in 1920 in advance of him presenting the estate to the South African nation. W.H. Horne installed an initial nine holes then Sid Brews added another nine in 1930.

The course occupies an imposing hillside location overlooking the eastern seaboard at Pennington with great views over the Indian Ocean on the rugged front nine. In contrast, the back nine holes wind inland through hilly woodland terrain with some delightful changes in elevation.

Not long by modern standards at 6,120 yards, Umdoni Park is an underrated course and a real hidden gem on the Wild Coast. The signature hole is the uphill 121-yard, par three 12th, named Majuba (meaning “mountain of doves”), where the target green from the tee appears to be perched in the bush. The result of the walk from the 17th green ,through bush, climbing uphill to the tee box for the home hole is simply sensational – the stunning view over the course, the clubhouse and the ocean is one that will live long in the memory.