South Africa

Why Choose South Africa for Your Golf & Spa Holiday

South Africa offers something that very few long-haul golf destinations can match: genuine world-class golf in a natural setting that hasn't been engineered around the courses. Fancourt sits on a 613-hectare estate in the Outeniqua Mountains, with the Serpentine River winding through the property and the mountain range as a constant backdrop. The Links course, designed by Gary Player, was built on a historic racing circuit and has hosted the Presidents Cup — a layout that challenges serious golfers while remaining accessible for those playing at a more relaxed pace.

The spa experience at Fancourt matches the golf: a full-service facility with comprehensive treatment rooms, hydrotherapy, a heated outdoor pool and a range of treatments designed with post-round recovery in mind. The Garden Route itself — the 300km stretch of coastline between Mossel Bay and Storms River — adds everything else: whale watching, dramatic scenery, world-class restaurants and the option to extend into the Cape Winelands or add a safari. South Africa is a destination that rewards those who go, and Fancourt is the perfect base from which to experience it.

The Garden Route

Fancourt Hotel & Golf Estate, George — Set on a 613-hectare private estate in George, on the Garden Route between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, Fancourt is South Africa's premier golf and spa resort. Three 18-hole championship courses share the estate: The Links (designed by Gary Player, #1 in South Africa, venue of the 2003 Presidents Cup), Montagu and Outeniqua. The spa occupies a converted heritage building at the heart of the estate, with treatment rooms, hydrotherapy facilities and a heated pool. The Manor House — a more intimate wing of the estate — offers a higher level of seclusion for those wanting a particularly private experience, with daily canapés, afternoon tea and one dinner included per stay.

George Airport connects to Cape Town and Johannesburg for onward international flights, and the Garden Route Drive from Cape Town to Fancourt (approximately 5 hours) is one of the great scenic road journeys in Africa — with whale watching at Hermanus, oysters at Knysna and the Tsitsikamma Forest all along the route.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time for a golf and spa holiday in South Africa?

The Garden Route enjoys a mild, temperate climate year-round — one of the great advantages of South Africa as a golf destination. April to October (the dry season) is the most popular window: clear skies, daytime temperatures of 18–24°C and firm, fast course conditions. November to March is warmer and wetter, but courses remain playable and greens fees are often lower. Unlike many long-haul destinations, South Africa doesn't have a single 'wrong' time to go.

What is the golf like at Fancourt?

Fancourt is South Africa's finest golf estate and one of the best in the Southern Hemisphere. The Links — designed by Gary Player — has held the Presidents Cup and is consistently ranked the number one course in South Africa. The Montagu and Outeniqua courses offer equally enjoyable rounds in a more parkland setting. All three are available to hotel guests, and the estate's golf academy provides professional instruction for those who want to sharpen their game alongside the holiday.

How long is the flight from the UK?

Approximately 11–12 hours from London Heathrow to George Airport in the Garden Route — one of the few regional airports in South Africa served by connecting flights via Cape Town or Johannesburg. Direct flights from the UK to Cape Town operate with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic; from there it's a scenic 5-hour drive (or 45-minute domestic flight) along the Garden Route to George. Most guests stay for at least 7 nights to make the journey worthwhile.

Is South Africa suitable for non-golfers?

South Africa has some of the most compelling non-golf experiences of any destination we offer. The Garden Route itself — a stretch of coastline between Mossel Bay and Storms River — combines dramatic scenery, whale watching (June to November), bungee jumping at Bloukrans Bridge, the Cango Caves and the Tsitsikamma National Park. Add Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and the option to extend the trip with a safari, and South Africa becomes a genuinely exceptional all-round destination.

How does Fancourt compare to European resorts for value?

South Africa offers outstanding value for a property of Fancourt's calibre. With ZAR/GBP exchange rates historically favourable for UK travellers, the cost of accommodation, dining, green fees and spa treatments at five-star level compares very favourably to equivalent European resorts. Fancourt's included transfers, extensive dining options and full spa facilities mean the overall cost of the holiday is often lower than a comparable week in Tuscany or the Algarve.