Day 1 - Waterfront to De Zalze, Somerset West
From the Waterfront turn left to N1 Paarl then follow N2 Somerset West. After about 32 km, take Exit 33 Baden Powell Drive, Stellenbosch R310 and turn left at the stop (as if you were going to Spier). Turn right into Annandale Road (at the large strawberry). At the four-way stop turn left onto R44 and continue towards Stellenbosch, then turn left into De Zalze Winelands Golf Club.
De Zalze Golf Club, off R44, Stellenbosch: 18 holes, par 72. Type of course: parkland. Length: 5 937m. Clubs, trolleys, drive carts and caddies for hire.
As if there wasn't enough to entertain you at Spier, the De Zalze Golf Club (for now accessed off the R44, not through Spier) issues a unique Winelands challenge - can you finish your round before you succumb to a wine tasting? The course, designed by Peter Matkovich, is unusual in that it meanders through a working farm and vineyard.
The result is a spectacularly beautiful winelands experience, with the Stellenbosch mountains as a backdrop to fairways running between vines, fruit trees and lavender, and numerous dams and holes along the oak-lined Blaauwklippen River making it one of the Western Cape's most scenic golfing destinations. Do reward yourself by tasting the Kleine Zalze and Spier wines afterwards.
Another advantage De Zalze has over many of the other major golf estates is that by embracing tourism, tee times are accessible and visitors are made welcome (club membership is limited to residents). A magnificent clubhouse overlooks the river, practice area and the 18th green. De Zalze is due to host the World Amateur Team Championships in 2006, and a new golf village and hotel is also on the cards. Most challenging hole: 17th par 5 (one of the toughest par 5s in the Western Cape) - the fairway curves along the river left of a high bunkered mound, with the river crossing it just before the elevated green.
Where else to play: Somerset West Golf Club - 18 holes, par 73 parkland course (5 928m) crosses a railway line and a road that divides it into three distinct parts. Look out for unusual white squirrels. Or try Strand Golf Club - 18 holes, par 72 parkland course (5 732m).
An overnight stay at Erinvale Golf Estate in Somerset West offers great accommodation at Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa.
Self drive routes from Cape Town invite visitors to the Mother City to experience the natural splendour, fun activities and scenic attractio...