FAIRWAYS & BEYOND

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Joburg is a major golfing hub, but it is rarely seen as a 'tour' destination. This might change your mind

By Ben Karpinski

For those that don't live there, the next sentence may be a little unbelievable: Johannesburg is one of the best golf cities in the world, and you really do need to plan a trip there in future.

The weather is amazing, the sheer number of quality courses that are both accessible and affordable to play is like nothing on earth, and it's also 5 751 feet above sea level – so it's really fun hitting the ball there too.

According to South Africa's top course-rating platform, satop100courses.com, 27 of the top 100 courses in the country are in greater Johannesburg, with a further six more-than-decent courses just outside those rankings, also in the area. By international standards, these courses range from what would be considered high-quality municipal courses, right through to private country club experiences.

Many will rightly argue that Joburg's best days as a prosperous metropolis are pretty much in the past for a multitude of reasons. However, as a golfing city, it has somehow endured, and in many ways these iconic courses and the golfing experiences in general remain a shining light of the place.

The following are some of the more favoured selections … and with some accommodation and off-course activities aligned to them.

Royal Johannesburg

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Featuring the East and West courses, Royal Johannesburg has seen extensive improvements in the last decade, both on and off the course. The result is a destination you can easily base a tour around, with exceptional staff and facilities to enjoy.

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Country Club Johannesburg

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Another club with a two-course offering, CCJ, as it is more commonly known, offers possibly the premier 'country club' experience in South Africa. Golfers have the choice of the Rocklands or Woodmead courses, and they are completed with one of the finest after-round settings to enjoy drinks and a diverse menu.

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Parkview

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Parkview is a true golfing gem and a piece of South African golf history. The spiritual home of golfing legend Bobby Locke, it is not only a top-class golfing layout, but also has a golfing clubhouse that makes for a wonderful day out throughout the year.

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Houghton

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The current home of the Johannesburg Open, Houghton is a terrific layout with a modern clubhouse that lends itself to an extended golfing experience. The heart of one of Johannesburg's most affluent neighbourhoods, it's a true parkland icon.

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Glendower

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A course that is well known as a tournament host on the Sunshine Tour, along with being the stage for many an epic SA Open showdown, Glendower is a true championship layout for all to enjoy. What it perhaps lacks in location, it more than makes up for in playability and enjoyment on the course.

The Club at Steyn City

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A place that truly has to be seen to be believed. The undulating Jack Nicklaus championship course sits at the heart of the lavish Steyn City estate. With some of the most impressive pre-round practice and clubhouse facilities you will ever experience, you will quickly see why it is the venue for South Africa's first LIV Golf event.

Blair Atholl

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Currently ranked the second best course in South Africa, behind The Links at Fancourt, Blair Atholl is another showstopper as a golfing destination. Design wise, it's a true Gary Player masterpiece, set on the Black Knight's own original stud farm. The longest course to ever host a DP World Tour event, it really is a one-of-a-kind place.

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GETTING THERE

OR Tambo International Airport is the major point of arrival, with Lanseria a secondary airport to consider for domestic trips. From the courses listed above, Blair Atholl is the furtherest away from OR Tambo at 60km, but is just a mere 3km from Lanseria.

Once on the ground in Johannesburg, you are never too far away from the action and the courses in a rental car or organised shuttle service.

PLACES TO STAY

As you would expect from a major commercial city, your options on accommodation are plentiful. From high-end hotels to charming guest houses, you can have your pick in Johannesburg.

Steyn City Hotel by Saxon

If you are looking for luxury, then this is a superb place to base yourself. Naturally giving you direct access to The Club at Steyn City, and putting you in close proximity to Blair Atholl.

Southern Sun Hyde Park

A great value for money central hub in Johannesburg with many nearby dining options. It's also a more-than-adequate place to enjoy an evening by the bar or pool after a day of golf.

The Houghton Hotel

Another premium option, the location is ideal to connect you with Houghton Golf Course, along with nearby Royal Johannesburg, Glendower and Parkview. The dining options available here also make it a prime base for an extra special few days away.

OTHER THINGS TO DO

Padel

Johannesburg could easily be seen as South Africa's primary padel hub. Many of the top golf courses have padel facilities on their grounds, allowing those who enjoy both sports a full day of activities if they are energetic enough.

Dining

Johannesburg has always been known for its restaurants and dining experiences. With so much business entertainment taking place, your options are truly numerous, no matter your preference. Along with this comes a variety of trendy bars and meeting places should you be travelling in a larger group.

City Sightseeing Red Bus Tour

With the sheer amount of golf available to you in Johannesburg, there will be little time to do much else in the day. Should you want to enjoy a little more sightseeing, the Red Bus Tour is a must. Johannesburg has a fascinating history, and as one of the fastest growing cities in the last century, there is much to learn and see from the raised vantage point of the double-decker bus.

11/29/2025 07:20:36