The Eastern Cape has some of SA’s most scenic courses, and The Belmont is one, occupying an isolated valley location. It’s a severely undulating layout, particularly the front nine, so walking 18 holes is for the young or very fit. It’s a fun course if you’re straight off the tee, because there’s a premium on finding fairways rather than length. And even then there are slopes on the fairways which can see a golf ball running out of control in dry conditions. I enjoyed the superbly designed and conditioned bent grass greens, although some have devilish slopes. There are several memorable holes, beginning with the downhill par-5 opener and including all five par 3s. The course is something of a squeeze in places on the back nine, so the challenging stroke 1 par-4 12th is a flawed design despite a beautiful green location on the edge of a stream. Too difficult and awkward for most golfers.
