It's hot in Paarl at this time of year. The temperature was in the mid 30s on the morning I visited, and there are days when it climbs to 40. The Berg River which flows alongside the course looks tempting. And Paarl's popularity is confirmed by how busy it is with visitors and younger golfers. It's the only club I've seen which offers its customers cold refrigerated water on tap kept in wine barrels, at two places on the course near the tees at No 5 and 14. It's an innovative touch which typifies the many improvements at Paarl in the last few years both in the clubhouse and on the course. The golf club, which operates independently from the Boschenmeer residential estate, has an excellent halfway house, and that's matched by the upstairs outside deck for golfers and restaurant inside. A new irrigation system is being installed and the course is looking particularly good from tee to green despite the stress of the constant heat and wind.
