Most golfers will be familiar with the well-frequented N2 highway heading out from Cape Town to the Garden Route reaching Fancourt, Pezula, et al. But a less well-travelled road lies just off the N2 between Swellendam and Ashton, through what is known as the Valley of Wine and Roses – and there are a few pleasant golfing surprises along the way.

Swellendam, the traditional stop on a journey to the Garden Route, may not exactly conjure up thoughts of pristine fairways and lightning-fast greens, yet the area is becoming increasingly preoccupied with turning nine-hole country courses into something more note-worthy and is reason to pull off the N2 in your rush to get to your destination.

A trip to visit Swellendam GC is a case in point. Set at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains, at just 2 875 metres, this nine-hole course may hardly present a challenge to the low-handicapper – perfect then for a quick stopover – but the spectacular setting, unhurried atmosphere and cheap greenfees (how does R100 sound?) add to the appeal.

Not far from Swellendam is Bonnievale Golf Club, and further along the R60 one will find the new Silwerstrand Golf Estate built surrounding Robertson GC. Reason enough to find a B&B to stay over, but what is also particularly alluring about the area is that, in addition to the family friendly, inexpensive golf on offer there are several excellent wine farms close by.

The Mole had the pleasure of staying a Mardouw Country House not too long ago, a guest house set halfway between Ashton and Swellendam. The owners, the Verder family, have built a 250-metre driving range on the property in anticipation of the golfing guests they expect will flock to the area. Thus far, it’s proved to be hugely popular and, while using the range, set in between pine forests and olive groves, will certainly benefit your golfing skills, it’ll also benefit the community. Mandy Marshall, manager of the five-star guest house, coordinates a project in which the local children receive pocket money in exchange for collecting the balls, and in doing so Mandy teaches them basic maths and helps improve their English.

Situated on a working olive farm, Mardouw is ideally located – all the golf courses in the area as well as several wine farms are within half-an-hour’s driving distance, and for those less inclined to leave the comforts of the farm, there is bass fishing, mountain biking and walking trails to keep one entertained. The farm also produces its own olive products, including olive oil, soaps, body creams and even ice cream, made by chef Karen, who will also tantalise your taste buds with scrumptious breakfasts and dinners.

♦ Mardouw Country House
Tel: 023 616 2999
Website: www.mardouw.com
♦ Swellendam Golf Club
Tel: 028 514 1026
♦ Bonnievale GC
Tel: 023 616 2613
♦ Silwerstrand Golf Estate
Tel: 023 626 1090
Website: www.robertsongolf.co.za