168 - Nkonyeni (Bushveld)

Location: Sidvokodvo, Swaziland

Rating: 8.4

Nkonyeni is a little jewel in the heart of Swaziland (eSwatini). It is a housing estate with 27 holes woven into it and the houses neatly concealed in the bush so as not to be much of a distraction from the course. We first played the Bushveld course, holes 1-18 and then the Links 9 on the second day which is holes 19-27. The Bushveld course is a beautifully designed course as the name would suggest with bush lining most fairways. There are very few holes where you can miss on other fairways so pack a few balls because anything errant will quite easily disappear.

On some of the holes we were treated to some local wildlife in the form of several variety of buck which is always a cool experience. The course was in great condition, the greens were lovely, some of the best we’d played on on our trip and the fairways were spot on as well. The tee boxes were surrounded by very cool rock formations which makes you appreciate the extra detail put into the course.

The 18th hole is one of my favourites to date. A par 3 finishing in front of this marvellous huge thatched roof clubhouse with an approach over a fast running river to a generously sized green, just a splendid finish to an excellent course.

They do have a driving range there where you can hit off the grass and some other practice facilities.

We ate at the clubhouse most evenings we stayed there and the food was great, grab yourself a Sibebe and sit and watch the river flow for the most relaxing evening. The hospitality and friendliness of the people of Swaziland grabbed our hearts.

If you haven’t been before definitely get yourself across the border, go play all 3 loops and Nkonyeni and also get yourself to Royal Swazi. They are incredibly good value for money and you won’t be disappointed.