It would perhaps be an exaggeration to say that Fancourt is the world's best golf facility, but it’s probably very close to the truth. With three courses of absolute top class, you have no leisure time problem when you visit.

Fancourt is situated between Port Elizabeth and Cape Town in South Africa and has hosted the Presidents Cup, the match between the USA and other countries which is determined every two years. Tiger Woods and the other world stars have played the links course, the latest addition to Fancourt. Gary Player has created an undulating British links-landscape where there once was an airport. It is impressive to say the least. Incidentally Player has designed all courses in the area and Ernie Els lives and is a member here.

Fancourt is a relatively new golf resort, it opened in 1991 and has quickly positioned itself as the most sought after facility in the country. And no wonder.

In addition to the three courses in the area, the hotel also owns the Bramble Hill course just outside the gates. In 2001 the Montagu course was the highest rated course in South Africa, but it has now got competition from one of its siblings, Links.

Links, Montagu and Outeniqua form a trio that has no counterpart and with Bramble Hill as a complement to Fancourt has 72 holes that you don’t get tired of.

There have been rumours that the Links course would be closed to guests, something that golf manager Mike Hargreaves firmly denies.
“There are always a lot of rumours. We will not close any of our courses, "says Hargreaves.
However, the number of tee times for guests will decline after the Presidents Cup, so why not take the opportunity to quickly travel there.

Despite the high class, the price level in South Africa makes it possible for you not to ruin yourself when visiting. The restaurants at the facility are all of high class and for the equivalent of 16 euros, you can basically eat and drink exactly what and as much as you want.

Too bad that it’s so far away.

Text: Frederick Nilsmark
Photo: Christer Höglund