225 - Kuilsrivier Golf Club

Location: Cape Town, South Africa

Rating: 7.3

Kuilsrivier had long been on my radar for the simple reason that it was the final 18 hole course in Cape Town I had yet to play. Unfortunately, now that I’ve ticked it off the list, I’m not in any particular rush to return.

Set on the eastern outskirts of Cape Town—closer to Stellenbosch than the city centre—the course is probably one of my least favourites compared to others in the area. Situated right next to a main road it doesn’t offer much in terms of serenity and with powerlines criss-crossing several holes it isn’t that pleasing on the eye either. That said, there are moments, particularly on the higher parts of the course, where you do get some pleasant views of the surrounding winelands.

I played on a quiet Thursday morning in winter and was kindly invited by the starter to begin on the 10th, as it was the quieter nine. The course was peaceful with barely anyone around, which made for a quicker than usual round. Kuilsrivier is predominantly a parkland course, though water hazards make notable appearances—especially on the back nine. The 10th, for example, is a short par 4 with a well-placed water hazard in driving range, making it a smart lay-up off the tee. The 13th is a picturesque par 3 played over water, and the 8th (played as my 17th) is another par 4 with water in play, again demanding a more cautious approach.

There are a handful of interesting holes, but overall, it’s a fairly straightforward layout. The course itself was in mixed condition. The greens were a little patchy, though that seemed to be a result of recent hollow tining, while the fairways were in surprisingly good shape, lush and well-maintained for this time of year (verging on Winter)

At R680 for visitors, it’s decent value, particularly for international guests, but don’t expect anything too fancy.