Golf in Cape Town

Most golf clubs in the Cape accept visitors, but prior booking is essential. Expect to pay R350-R400 for 18 holes and R120-R250 to rent golf clubs. Most clubs offer equipment rental. You can also rent golf carts for around R200, but you are encouraged to employ a caddie instead, as this offers valuable employment to local communities. Expect to pay around R100 and a tip of 10%-20% for good service. Clovelly Country Club (021/782-1118. www.clovelly.co.za), near Fish Hoek, is a tight course that requires masterful shot placement from tee to green. Milnerton Golf Club (021/552-1047. www.milnertongolfclub.co.za), sandwiched between the sea and a lagoon, is the Western Cape's only links course and can be difficult when the wind blows. Mowbray Golf Club (021/685-3018. www.mowbraygolfclub.co.za), with its great views of Devil's Peak, is a magnificent parkland course that has hosted several major tournaments; there are a number of interesting water holes. Unfortunately, noise from the highway can spoil the atmosphere. Founded in 1885, Royal Cape Golf Club (021/761-6551. www.royalcapegolf.co.za) is the oldest course in Africa and has hosted the South African Open many times. Its beautiful setting and immaculate fairways and greens make a round here a must for serious golf enthusiasts. The challenging and scenic Steenberg Golf Estate (021/715-0227. www.steenberggolfclub.co.za) is the most exclusive and expensive course on the peninsula. A round costs more than R600 per person unless you're staying at the hotel. Dress codes are strictly enforced here.