171 - Cotswold Downs

Location: Durban, South Africa

Rating: 8.3

Cotswold Downs is a very pretty course sitting up on the hill outside Durban. It is one of the newer courses in the area opening in 2006 and is housed within an estate, typical of most courses in South Africa. It is a stunning course and a tough test.

The first hole is no easy start, a par 5 bending left on what is a relatively long course at almost 6,000 meters. After your tee shot you’re left with a decision, either a long club over a small ditch towards the green or lay up and go in 3. The second is no easier with a blind downhill tee shot where the fairway drops steeply to a green with a pond on the left hand side. The front 9 continues to rise and drop with many changes in elevation, especially the par 3 5th hole (signature hole) which is 160 meters playing 110 due to the steep drop. There is plenty of bush/tree trouble throughout but if you’re having a bad round holes 11-15 are a bit wider offering some respite from this wicked sport.

The course is in great condition, although when you come towards the latter holes and drop down into the valley it does deteriorate a fraction with the amount of rain they get in the area. Especially the 17th and 18th fairways and also the 9th. The greens are great throughout, running very quickly and the bunkers are very well looked after.

The views are great throughout, only hampered by the plethora of houses but come to get used to that in South Africa and there are some holes neighbouring forest so does give you that relaxing feel.

There is a driving range as well as separate putting & chipping areas, a lovely pro shop and a beautiful clubhouse. The course is cart only so despite the green fee not being too much the overall comes to about R750 which is still very good value for those travelling from abroad. Definitely recommend playing this course.