Pearl Valley
Jack Nicklaus Signature
Val de Vie Estate is home to an iconic Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course – one of only six in South Africa. The unique touch of golf legend Jack Nicklaus is evident throughout the pristine course and it is on the must-play list of local and international golfers. Officially opened in November 2003 by Nicklaus and South African great, Gary Player, Pearl Valley was named the ‘Best New Golf Course’ of the year by Golf Digest magazine in 2005. The championship course has been ranked among the top ten courses in South Africa by Golf Digest magazine every year since 2006 up to and including 2019 and named the ‘Best Conditioned Golf Course in the Western Cape’ from 2010 – 2019 by Golf Digest magazine.
Jack’s unique touch is evident throughout the course and his masterpiece is characterised by lush green-all-season fairways, exceptional bunkering and the clever use of beautiful water features. All par 3’s and par 5’s play in different directions, providing the golfer with varying conditions throughout the round.
Pearl Valley received an Audubon certification in 2017, and considerable attention has been paid in recent years to improving the wildlife environment. Natural grasses have been introduced which add character to the golf holes. Nicklaus created Pearl Valley on a flat site between the Berg River and the mountains, and has used water hazards and sand, plus subtly sloping greens, to engage and challenge golfers.
The overall experience is far more than the exquisite greens and fairways. An award-winning combination of golfing luxury and natural beauty awaits from the time you arrive. An unforgettable experience begins with a professional welcome at The Golf Shop followed by the opportunity to change in the luxury locker rooms whilst your clubs are taken to your cart. A gentle warm-up on some of the best practice facilities in the country and your lifelong memorable experience can commence.
Course Designer
Jack Nicklaus
Feature Holes
Pearl Valley has two signature holes, 4th and 13th, both offering majestic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The 4th hole is challenging, with limited margin for error as you need to cross the creek three times en-route to a tricky green. This par 5 is regularly listed as one of the best in South Africa, epitomising the ideals of ‘risk and reward’. The 13th hole is a daunting par 3 that will test both your ball strike and your nerve. As the water cuts from the right and a greenside bunker waits, one is captivated by the tee shot.
Practice Facility
A five-star range between the clubhouse and first tee, with grass bays and a wide, long hitting area. Short-game area next to the clubhouse.
Course Summary
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Five tees / Par 72
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Black, 6577 metres, CR75.5/148
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Yellow, 6162 metres, CR73.5/144
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Blue, 5716 metres, CR71.2/140
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Green, 5358 metres, CR69.5/136
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Red, 4655 metres, CR65.9/128
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Women’s blue, CR78.0/146
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Women’s green, CR75.4/141
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Women’s red, CR70.7/131