Zimbali Lakes unveils South Africa’s newest golf course

Zimbali Lakes’ long-awaited golf course delivers a scenic, nerve-testing experience backed by the design input of four-time major winner Ernie Els.

Designed in collaboration with Golf Data, the course winds through much of the 300-hectare estate. It features a traditional par-72 layout, with four par-5s and four par-3s, and bent grass greens that reward confident putting.

Els was present at the launch in April and praised the finished product after years in the making.

“There’s a lot to admire here. The dramatic and ever-changing topography gives you some exciting visual changes as you work your way around the 18 holes,” said Els.

“Overall it’s a very well-balanced test of golf. I always like to give players the opportunity to get the ball in play off the tee, with some generous fairway landing areas, but there’s a lot of variety in terms of what this golf course asks of a player, both off the tee and into the greens. Players are going to love it.”

The course currently starts on the 9th and ends on the 8th while the main clubhouse is under construction.

Expect friendly landing areas off the tee, but big trouble if you miss the fairways. The undulating course is surrounded by either natural bush or water features that punish wayward shots.

As for the layout itself, the 9th hole opening offers a gentle start and may lull one into a false sense of security. Holes 9 to 12 are all gettable par-4s which only require irons off the tee, while big-hitters may be able to reach some greens in the right conditions.

The real challenge starts on hole 13, a beautiful par-5 parallel to the N2, which demands three accurate shots with plenty of issues if you miss right. That feeling continues for most of the next 13 holes, which are characterised by dramatic drop-offs that create knee-knocking jitters as you address your ball.

A highlight is the 5-hole stretch from holes 18 to 4. The stretch will take you from the course’s highest points – teeing off towards the ocean on the signature 18th – to its lowest alongside a stunning water feature which wraps around holes 2 and 3. If the wind picks up, you will need to play rock solid golf to score well.

Each par-3 is memorable, united by a carry over trouble from the tee but unique in their positioning and the shots they require.

While not overly long, the course presents an enjoyable challenge for all skill levels, and can be attacked by big-hitters in favourable conditions.

We recommend bringing extra balls, particularly if the wind picks up!

The Ernie Els Signature Course is open to the public and bookings can be made at zimbalilakes.co.za/golf. Visitor green fees are R1 400.

Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news.

Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here or if you’re on desktop, scan the QR code below.