Bosch Hoek Golf Course, Balgowan, KwaZulu Natal

Bosch Hoek Golf Course, Balgowan, Natal Midlands, KwaZulu Natal / Bosch Hoek Golf & Country Estate in the KwaZulu Natal Midlands must qualify as one of the most picturesque layouts in the country. The estate is conveniently positioned at Balgowan near Howick, just a four hour drive from Johannesburg or a leisurely one and a half hour drive from Durban.

The course measures only 5 840 metres, certainly on the short side when one considers that Bosch Hoek’s elevation above sea level is about 1000m. The layout is rated a 68, but with the pins hidden away and the grainy cynoden greens speeded up, this would be a tough task for the scratch player. More importantly, no matter what the novice or expert golfer scores here, the round will certainly be one to remember.

The 1st hole, a 322 metre par four played slightly uphill, is a relatively gentle opener. The next hole is a par four easily reachable from the tee. This hole, when played as the 2nd or 11th, is a classic example of the risk-and reward design philosophy employed by Grimsdell and other designers of the bygone era. Two more par fours follow, the 3rd (at 370 metres, the longest two-shotter on the course) and the 4th, a hole that measures 341 metres. The 5th hole is a par three played over one of the many lakes where water lilies flourish.

Next is a par five that is reachable after a solid drive, but an over-ambitious second can find a stream that crosses the fairway some 600 metres from the green. The strongest par three follows, 180 metres uphill, played into the prevailing wind. The elevated green is well protected by bunkers and its large proportions allow for some imaginative pin positioning.

It is the final hole, a par five which doglegs slightly to the left. The longer hitter will certainly find the green within reach with the second shot, but a perfectly positioned bunker to the right will invariably come into play. This hazard is placed to the right and well short of the green, leaving a tough third. A stand of trees grows to the left of the fairway can also bedevil the long approach, forcing the player to shape the second shot if the green is to be reached.

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