Golfing at Arabella
Arabella hugs the Bot River lagoon and rubs shoulders with the Kogelberg Biosphere, South Africa's first internationally recognised biosphere reserve which is regarded as the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom - the smallest yet most diverse of the world's six kingdoms.
In keeping with that status, Arabella has cleared alien species and planted endemic plants (about four million of them), to create a beautifully natural feel, which recently won them an International Standards Award for environmental management. You will enjoy the wetlands birdlife as well - especially the ornamental pink flamingos.
Each hole is a unique challenge, with the course designed in two large circles so you're not always fighting the wind on gusty days. The layout mixes both long and short par 4s, different directional par 3s and high-risk and reward par 5s, and it's enjoyable for both high and low handicap players.
You'll probably use every club in your bag. Toughest hole: 3rd par 4 - water on the left tempts you to the right, where two strategically placed bunkers lie in wait. The fairway doglegs left to the steeply sloping green, with water on the left to make it more interesting!
The nearby Hemel-en-Aarde valley is renowned for its wine estates, and wine lovers are in for a treat with various wine tasting options available. You’ll also have many great restaurants and bistros to choose from for a light lunch before you move on to your next wine tasting.
End off the day with an overnight stay at Arabella Hotel & Spa.
Self drive routes from Cape Town invite visitors to the Mother City to experience the natural splendour, fun activities and scenic attractio...