‘Unique’ is the most appropriate word to describe Legend Golf and Safari Resort in South Africa. Our golf specialist Neil Docking was fortunate enough to take a trip there in December and was not disappointed. 'The attention to detail is as good as anywhere I’ve stayed in the world,' Neil comments. 'Before arriving I had to answer a few questions about my favourite drinks, foods and other interests. Not wanting to spoil the surprise, I’ll let you find out for yourself what they use the replies for.'
The 18-holf Signature golf course is one of a kind. A different international golf star designed each hole; Garcia, Harrington, Monty and Goosen are just a few of the 18 instantly recognisable names. The pros have 15 majors between them – all contributing to the longest course in Africa. It’s an amazing experience, and although each hole is unique in its design, they work so well together to complete a great Championship course.
The par-three Tribute course is another unique experience. It’s an eclectic group of the best 10 par threes from all over the globe. There’s Troon’s ‘Postage Stamp’, St Andrews Old Course’s 11th, Augusta’s 12th and TPC Sawgrass’s 17th. They are all built to the exact spec of the original. Try two putting from the wrong side of the green on Yale University’s 9th, or stopping it before the hole from the top side of Augusta’s 16th.
The Extreme 19th is another world first and unique golfing experience. It’s the longest par three in the world, with the tee sitting 396m up on Hangklip Mountain. After a quick helicopter trip to the tee you hit onto a green from the edge of the mountain. The green is shaped like the African continent, with the contours mimicking the landscape. The prize for a hole in one is a cool million dollars; however, most people are ecstatic to walk away with a par.
Golf is not the only thing on show. The resort has the big five, and with no fences, it feels as if you are walking among the beasts. 'The white lions are some of the most amazing creatures I’ve ever seen' says Neil. 'I met the head ranger and he arranged for me to feed the lions, which was as scary as it sounds.' They can organise close encounters with the animals, that you can’t get anywhere else, including helicopter rides to tag buffalo, for example.
'I highly recommend Legend as a destination,' Neil comments. We can arrange special packages which include stops at Arabella (host of the Nelson Mandela Invitational), moving on to Fancourt (home of the Presidents Cup and numerous SA Opens), and finishing two-and-a-half hours north of Johannesburg at Legend Golf and Safari Resort.
Call your lifestyle manager for further details or to book a trip.
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