KZN MIDLANDS
BOSCH HOEK GOLF & LODGE The KZN Midlands has evolved into a popular golf destination mainly because Bosch Hoek Golf & Lodge followed Gowrie Farm in providing accommodation, and 12 luxuriously comfortable rooms at that, together with an intimate restaurant offering eve- ning meals, something Gowrie doesn’t do. Bosch Hoek has re-invented itself from a private 9-hole club into a secluded mini-resort which promotes stay-and-play packages on its website. It’s a delightful place to spend a few days relaxing, especially couples, and non-golfers have been seduced by its charms and convenience to the N3. The Lodge is separate from the clubhouse, so guests have their privacy and won’t be wo- ken by the sounds of golfers in the morning. Bosch Hoek and Gowrie Farm are only 20 minutes apart by road, so they complement each other as a destination.
KZN NORTH COAST PRINCE’S GRANT LODGE
There is no better view, for me, of a golf course than from the seven individually named upstairs en-suite rooms of the Lodge at Prince’s Grant on the KZN North Coast. Large, luxury rooms too, with a bal- cony overlooking the first and tenth tees. It is sublime. I love the continued remoteness of the destination. Since opening 30 years ago the only development has been within the residential estate. Prince’s Grant is where you remain for the duration of your stay, not flit in and out. The course is one fabulous adventure ride through tropical fauna and flora from start to finish. Stand on the tee at 15 and be wowed by the view of the Indian Ocean coastline. The clubhouse has similar charms to Gowrie Farm, no coincidence there as both properties were developed by Guy Smith, a golfing traditionalist. Mulligan’s is a handsome 19th bar and the restaurant catering is superb. Prince Grant has its own private beach.
KZN SOUTH COAST BOTHA HOUSE AT UMDONI PARK
One of the most remarkable places to stay. This historic colonial home, built in 1920 by Sir Frank Reynolds on a ridge above the Indian Ocean, is an essential part of the Umdoni Park experience. It has been a B&B guest house for many years, yet still feels like a private residence, the rooms attractively restored to how they originally were. Personal service too from friendly and helpful staff. Umdoni Park is one of the most scenic courses in South Africa, a nature reserve, and remains equally as old-fashioned and quirky as Botha House. The guest house with its own entrance adjoins the sixth hole, and this is where visitors catch their first glimpse of the property. Botha House has its own spacious grounds, yet guests can also walk the numerous forest trails behind the golf course. Meals are served at Botha House, but guests usually avail themselves of the clubhouse restaurant, with its outside deck high above the ocean.
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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024
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