Champagne Sports Resort Golf Club offers mountain golf on a spectacular scale, with the peaks of the Central Drakensberg providing a dramatic backdrop throughout the round. The course sits within the Champagne Valley of KwaZulu-Natal and is an excellent choice for golfers who want to combine challenging golf with South Africa’s scenery and outdoor experiences.

Designed by former South African Open champion Hugh Baiocchi, the 18-hole, par-72 course opened in its complete form in 1997. It can stretch to approximately 6,694 metres from the back tees, although several shorter options make it accessible to visiting golfers and mixed-handicap groups.

The layout follows naturally undulating terrain, producing frequent elevation changes and downhill approaches. Its kikuyu fairways are generally wide and bordered by lighter rough, but inaccurate shots can still find wetlands, water hazards or one of the course’s 84 bunkers. Bent-grass greens provide smooth putting surfaces and remain receptive during the cooler winter season.

The opening holes immediately introduce golfers to the landscape, running beside the deep Sterkspruit River gorge. The signature par-three 4th is played from an elevated tee across water to a narrow green, creating one of the round’s most memorable shots. The closing stretch is equally impressive, flowing downhill towards the clubhouse. Water protects the elevated 18th green, ensuring concentration is required until the final putt.

The mountain climate gives the course different characteristics through the year. Summer normally brings greener, softer fairways, while winter conditions can produce firmer ground and additional run. Motorised buggies, changing rooms, a professional shop and a halfway house are available at the clubhouse, which enjoys panoramic views across the course and surrounding peaks.