Golf

Most golf clubs in the Cape accept visitors, but prior booking is essential. Expect to pay R250–R400 for 18 holes and R200–R350 to rent golf clubs. You can also rent golf carts for around R200, but you are encouraged to employ a caddie instead, as this offers valuable employment to local communities. Expect to pay around R150 plus a tip of 10%–20% for good service. Exclusive golf courses can cost even more.

Royal Cape Golf Club. Founded in 1885, Royal Cape Golf Club is the oldest course in Africa and has hosted the South African Open many times. Although the course is on flat terrain, the playing of Royal Cape is subject to three of nature’s beguiling offerings: a near constant wind to challenge you, sweeping mountain views to charm you, and water features to ensnare you. It's tree lined with narrow fairways and subtle United States Golf Association-spec-built greens. The 14th hole is rated by the Compleat Golfer as the best 14th hole in the country—par is gold on this long left-to-right dogleg par four, even for the low handicapper. This is one of the best and most challenging courses to play both in the Western Cape and the country. Royal Cape Golf Club, 174 Ottery Rd., Wynberg, Cape Town, Western Cape. 021/761–6551; www.royalcapegolf.co.za. R500 for 18 holes.

Steenberg Golf Estate. The challenging and scenic Steenberg Golf Estate is the most exclusive and expensive course on the peninsula; the golf course is rated as one of the top three courses to visit in South Africa. Dress codes are strictly enforced here. Great Sauvignon Blanc is produced at the estate, and it has a profound history, having been a land grant by the first governer of the Cape in the late 17th century to Catherina Ras, one of the country's first female landowners. Steenberg Golf Estate, 10978 Tokai Rd., Cape Town, Western Cape. 021/715–0227; www.steenberggolfclub.co.za. R1065 for 18 holes.