This is Eastern Cape golf’s hidden secret. My first sight of the course from the clubhouse was of rolling hills and wide open spaces, offering a feel of freedom. Royal Port Alfred is well designed with some tricky holes requiring skill and accuracy. The greens resemble upturned saucers so if you are slightly off line the ball tends to run off down a swale. The fairways are generously wide and the rough cut short, so longer hitters can try and drive some par 4s. The greens have nap so you have to watch the shine which will indicate which way the grass is lying. They are smooth and consistent to putt on and quick down grain. The fairways hadn’t been cut due to a lack of rain as there is only irrigation around the greens. The course is well maintained with lots of attention to detail around the greens. Neat and tidy and a pleasure to play. The clubhouse catering is excellent. Bram’s at the 19th serves an excellent breakfast and lunch at reasonable prices.
