Somerset West, located just outside of Cape Town in the Western Cape, is home to some of the region’s most scenic and well-regarded golf courses. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, vineyards, and mountains, Somerset West offers an ideal setting for golfers looking for a memorable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, the courses in Somerset West provide a variety of challenges and a stunning atmosphere. Here's a guide to the best golf Somerset West:
1. Somerset West Golf Club
Location: Somerset West, Western Cape
Course Type: Parkland
The Somerset West Golf Club is one of the most popular golf courses in the area. Set in a beautiful parkland setting, the course is relatively flat and offers a challenging but accessible layout for golfers of all skill levels. With scenic views of the Helderberg Mountains and the surrounding areas, it’s a course that both beginners and experienced players can enjoy.
- Highlights: The 18-hole, par-72 course offers a mix of long and short holes, water hazards, and bunkers. It is well-maintained and features lush fairways and greens.
- Facilities: A well-appointed clubhouse with a restaurant, pro shop, driving range, and practice greens.
Why Play Here?: Somerset West Golf Club offers a relaxed but challenging round of golf with beautiful views. It’s an ideal spot for golfers who want to enjoy the game in a scenic and peaceful environment.
2. De Zalze Golf Club
Location: Stellenbosch, near Somerset West
Course Type: Parkland
Located just a short drive from Somerset West, De Zalze Golf Club is one of the top golf courses in the region and a must-play for golfers. Situated in the heart of the Stellenbosch wine region, this course offers a combination of challenging holes, water features, and picturesque vineyard views. The layout is designed to test golfers of all levels, with strategic bunkers, water hazards, and well-placed trees.
- Highlights: The 18-hole, par-72 course is set against the backdrop of vineyards and mountain views, providing both challenge and beauty. The course is known for its immaculate condition and strategic design.
- Facilities: A luxurious clubhouse, pro shop, golf academy, and practice areas.
Why Play Here?: De Zalze is perfect for golfers who want a challenging yet scenic round of golf in one of the most beautiful areas in the Western Cape. The course is also an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a round of golf followed by a wine tasting at nearby estates.
3. Erinvale Golf Club
Location: Somerset West, Western Cape
Course Type: Parkland
Erinvale Golf Club is one of South Africa’s most prestigious courses, offering a top-tier golfing experience. Situated in the heart of Somerset West, Erinvale is a well-designed parkland course that has hosted several high-profile events, including the 1996 World Cup of Golf. With its tree-lined fairways, water features, and bunkers, it’s a course that requires both accuracy and strategy. The course is also known for its impeccable condition and has been a favorite among both amateur and professional golfers.
- Highlights: The 18-hole, par-72 course is recognized for its challenging design and stunning surroundings, including views of the Helderberg Mountains and False Bay.
- Facilities: A beautiful clubhouse, pro shop, driving range, and practice greens.
Why Play Here?: Erinvale Golf Club offers a world-class golfing experience with a challenging layout and picturesque scenery. It’s perfect for golfers looking for a course that combines beauty and difficulty.
4. Kleinbosch Golf Club
Location: Stellenbosch, near Somerset West
Course Type: Parkland
Kleinbosch Golf Club is a hidden gem located just outside of Somerset West in the Stellenbosch area. The 9-hole, par-3 course offers a more relaxed round of golf with the same stunning scenery that the region is known for. It’s a great choice for golfers who prefer a shorter round or want to practice their short game. The course is well-maintained and has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
- Highlights: The 9-hole course is set among lush greenery with views of the nearby mountains. It’s perfect for a casual game or for beginners.
- Facilities: A small clubhouse, pro shop, and practice areas.
Why Play Here?: Kleinbosch is ideal for golfers looking for a more relaxed and shorter round, or for those who want to work on their short game in a tranquil setting.
5. The Strand Golf Club
Location: Strand, near Somerset West
Course Type: Parkland
Located in nearby Strand, The Strand Golf Club offers a beautiful parkland course with ocean views. The 18-hole, par-71 layout features a mix of challenging holes and scenic vistas, including views of False Bay and the Hottentots Holland Mountains. The course is known for its friendly atmosphere, affordable green fees, and well-maintained facilities.
- Highlights: The course features tree-lined fairways, well-placed water hazards, and challenging par-3s. The scenic views of the coastline and mountains make it a pleasant experience for golfers of all levels.
- Facilities: A clubhouse, pro shop, driving range, and putting green.
Why Play Here?: The Strand Golf Club is an affordable and accessible option for golfers who want to enjoy a beautiful round with great views, without the high price tag of some other courses in the area.
Conclusion: Golfing in Somerset West
Somerset West offers a variety of top-quality golf courses, each with its own unique challenges and scenic beauty. Whether you’re looking for a world-class experience at Erinvale Golf Club, a more relaxed round at Kleinbosch, or a course with spectacular views at The Strand or De Zalze, there is something for everyone in this picturesque region of the Western Cape.
The area’s proximity to the iconic Helderberg Mountains, stunning beaches, and the nearby winelands ensures that your golfing experience will be complemented by the natural beauty of the surroundings. Whether you're a local or visiting, the golf courses in Somerset West provide a perfect setting for a memorable round of golf.
