In 1994 an extensive upgrade program was launched and 18 new bent greens were built. Today we enjoy greens which are highly receptive, with a constantly smooth putting surface all year round.
Over the years, new tidal pools and channels have been introduced and real attention paid to the bunkering throughout the layout.
There are many tidal water hazards, raised undulating greens, strategic bunkering and the fact that the course is at sea level makes the course play much longer than the 5,752 metres on the card.
It is a par 72 with a slope rating for men of 123 (ladies 118) having four par 5s, four par 3s and ten par 4s. Water hazards are in play on 12 holes. The signature hole is the par 3 eighth with it’s island green and at 148 metres is usually played with a cross wind.
Stroke index 1 on the card is the par four 6th at 371 metres with lateral water hazards along both sides of the fairway and a large green that can accommodate many different pin placements.
The front nine starts from the Clubhouse and generally moves in a clockwise direction around the inside of the course. Whereas the back nine goes anti-clockwise mainly around the outside of the course. This means that although the prevailing wind is from the south-west, whatever the weather conditions, on each hole the wind direction will be different to the previous hole.
The golf course design
The design of the greens complexes means that pin placements can range from championship to easy. Because of the slopes and undulations the speed of the greens is kept under 10 on the Stimpmeter for tournaments.
The Knysna golf course is an enjoyable and gentle stroll through tree-lined fairways and you will not experience the fatigue you might on the more testing courses in the region.
The surrounding hills and mountains provide scenic backdrops and there is a great variety of trees, flowers and bird-life to watch out for. The newly rebuilt Clubhouse has a pleasant halfway house with a welcoming bar and deck of substantial proportions. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxing, so enjoy!
