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Fairmont Zimbali Lodge:
Fairmont Zimbali Lodge offers five-star luxury accommodation, designed to harmonise in tone and style with the natural surrounding forest. The African classical architecture is complemented by warm wood tones which occur throughout.
Fairmont Zimbali Resort:
The 154 well-appointed rooms offer scintillating views of the Indian Ocean, oversized verandas, and elegant decor of stone, wood and earth tones inspired by the area’s breathtaking natural
surroundings.
Zimbali Country Club
Course facts
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Holes: |
18 |
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Golf Digest Rank: |
28 |
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Year Built: |
1998 |
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SAGA Rating: |
71 (club) 70 (ladies) |
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PAR Rating: |
72 (club) 72 (ladies) |
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Length: |
6052m (club) 4858m (ladies) |
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Altitude: |
9m (above sea level) |
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Designer: |
Tom Weiskopf |
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Grass: Greens: |
Isle 2000 |
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Fairways: |
Royal Blue |
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Tees: |
Royal Blue |
Offering irresistible ocean and forest views, exceptional water and wetland features and an inspiring natural setting, Zimbali Country Club has developed the reputation of a memorable course with charisma and challenge.
With the brief of "conservation takes precedence" international golf course designer and former British and South African PGA champion, Tom Weiskopf, had to integrate a "cart only" course into a property with dramatic elevation changes, varying eco-systems and substantial residential sections. This was no easy task, but the end result is a prestigious course that is ecologically sound, yet it maximises the natural landscape. Having been described as "an enthralling journey through 18 holes", the changing terrain stretches the skill yet captivates its participating golfers. With the Weiskopf philosophy of "presenting a fair challenge to any level of play" the essence of this course is that it will reward the good shot and punish the bad.
Now in its fourteenth year (2010), the course has matured. Gradual adjustments have been made to improve user friendliness. Landing areas are wider and there is improved definition from tee positions. However the need to retain the ecology and extensive wildlife habitats dictates the positioning, abundance and controlled maintenance of the semi and long rough areas. This ultimately necessitates some precise shot making indeed and also contributes to increased difficulty of play.
The remains of a ruined farmhouse framed around an ageing wild fig tree dominates the entrance to the clubhouse. Again construction had to take place around nature and this feature not only marks the entrance of the modern, colonial-styled clubhouse, it also bears testimony to the preservation ethos of the developers of Zimbali Country Club.
The clubhouse has been designed and decorated in an African Classical theme, with extensive use of hand crafted décor, fittings and furnishings. Raised decks provide unparalleled elevated course and sea views, trees grow through decking leading down to the 18th green and parking bays were carefully planned to minimise impact on the forest surrounds. Impeccable service, superb catering, a well-appointed Pro Shop and plush cloakrooms enhance the venue even further.
The Country Club provides full amenities for golf, including golf carts (compulsory), a halfway house, putting greens, a driving range, tennis courts and a bar and lounge facility which is of the highest order.
In terms of the ultimate golfing experience, Zimbali is amongst the top 10 courses in South Africa to receive the Complete Golfer's Five-star Golf Experience Award; based on service excellence, top-class clubhouse facilities, golf course conditioning and last but not least the overall lingering experience.
Zimbali Country Club and Golf Course is rated independently by GOLF DIGEST magazine as a top 250 South African golf course, as well as a top 5 finest golfing experiences in South Africa.
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