Simola Golf Club

This 2005 Jack Nicklaus signature design sits high in the hills above the Garden Route coastal town of Knysna. The hotel buildings are on a ridge overlooking the course, with views of the Knysna Lagoon. Simola is on such undulating terrain that golf carts are essential and included in the green fee. Walking is not easy because of the distances between green and tee. There’s a steep cart path with hairpin bends leading down from the pro shop to the first and 10th tees, and another long climb from the first green to the second tee. A high ridge framing the property splits the course into two distinct parts. There are 12 holes in the area below the hotel, and another six in a separate valley. Nicklaus designed five par 5s and five par 3s.