Gowrie Farm – set in the heart of the magnificent Natal Midlands in Nottingham Road – is home to a golfing and housing estate within the 200-hectare working farm, surrounded by well-stocked trout dams, lush bush and kikuyu pastures.
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Story: Doody Adams
The impressive stone Clubhouse boasts five luxury, four-star double rooms, all overlooking the lake and golf course. Each room is beautifully appointed, has flatscreen TVs, stunning views and under-floor heating. Other accommodation on the estate includes five houses available for rental.
The golf course, developed by Guy Smith, is a Scottish Links designed course. The tees are close to the ground, the fairways gently undulate, the greens are pushed-up, and the wild bunkers are scattered along the fairways, sometimes framing the greens.
The course has 18 tees and 12 greens, adding variety and interest for the keen golfer who has the feeling of playing an 18-hole, rather than a 9-hole golf course. The rugged bunkers add a degree of difficulty and demand accuracy with your irons.
The 18th is an interesting and challenging hole, but my all-time favourite is the 4th, isolated from the Clubhouse and surrounded by green pastures and ducks on the dam. The vast open spaces and active farm land create a unique and special golfing experience.
“We pride ourselves on the condition of the course at all times, and are blessed with good soil and a great climate for growing grass,” says Duncan Price, Golf Director at Gowrie. “Gowrie is rated 54th in the Golf Digest Top 100 Golf Courses in South Africa,” adds Price proudly.
Nearby is Gowrie Village, an authentic village with a variety of shops, a gymnasium, bowling green, church and restaurants. Nearby, The Junction in Nottingham Road is a great family destination, and if being crafty is what you’re after, then you’ll enjoy making your own candles or chocolate dipping.
The area is renowned for its arts and crafts routes, and if you have the time, a visit to Piggly Wiggly Country Village is a must. The centre is home to the famous Linen Loft and many other interesting shops.
“Gowrie Farm is a special place – your home away from home. It’s all about personal service … and our clients are very important to us,” says Linda Foss, GM of Gowrie Farm.
Contacts:
Accommodation – 033 266 6294
Golf – 033 266 6348