Houghton Golf Course, Houghton, Gauteng

Houghton Golf Course, 2nd Avenue, Houghton, Sandton, Johannesburg / Centrally situated in Johannesburg's wealthy suburb of the same name, the Houghton Golf course has hosted no fewer than eight South African Opens since the Second World War.

Gary Player won three of his 13 South African Opens at this leafy, parkland course, while Ernie Else set a 15-under-par record score of 273 here in the same tournament in 1993, his victory then catapulting him into the international limelight. Houghton received a rare honour in February 1995, when it was chosen to host the inaugural Alfred Dunhill Challenge between southern Africa and Australasia, the southern hemisphere's answer to the Ryder Cup.

The Course
At 6 434 metres, Houghton is not an overly long course by highveld standards, as the ball flies a long way in Johannesburg's rarefied atmosphere. But short does not always translate into easy, and some exciting tee shots and approaches are required if you are attempting to master the holes. The predominant grass is Kikuyu, which when closely mown provides a truly magnificent surface from which to play. Houghton is renowned for its conditioning a wealth of wonderful par-four holes.

Stay overnight
Find accommodation in Houghton (by location map) or see Houghton Accommodation (with preview images and description). Consider Houghton Hotels (ranging from 3-5 star) or if you prefer to do it the self catering way, you will find our comprehensive list of Houghton Self Catering options useful. Also see Sandton Accommodation and Sandton Hotels for overnight options in surrounding towns or see Gauteng Accommodation and Gauteng Hotels for a place to stay in other towns and cities in Gauteng.