Royal Harare Golf Club

The elegant clubhouse and general atmosphere at Royal Harare Golf Club reminds one of colonial days. One of the only 5 courses in southern Africa granted "Royal" status, the classy Zimbabwe club can be proud of its heritage. Its course, one of the best in Africa, was a learning ground for some of the great players this country has produced, like Nick Price, Mark McNulty and Tony Johnstone.

For the lover of good, hearty food, it is strongly recommended that a round at Royal Harare be preceded by breakfast or lunch on the terrace. The magnificent steak, egg and chips on offer here takes an awful lot of beating ... Thus fortified, the more serious matter of golf can begin.

Royal Harare is comfortably spread out on a large tract of land in the city's green and spacious northern suburbs. The national botanical gardens are just across the road but the course itself is a good advertisement for the beautiful old indigenous trees and shrubs of the region. The kikuyu-grass fairways and Macginnes-grass greens are invariably in immaculate condition, and even the rough is well groomed.

It is difficult to believe that this golf course is in the middle of a city. The course was opened way back in 1898 by Lady Milton. Terry Carins, who played rugby for his country before turning to golf, is the resident professional.

It is difficult to believe that this golf course is in the middle of a city. The six-hole stretch from the 13th into the clubhouse offers birdie opportunities at numbers 13 and 16, but includes 2 tough par-fours (the 14th and 18th), making for an absorbing finish on this championship course.

The course was opened way back in 1898 by Lady Milton. Terry Carins, who played rugby for his country before turning to golf, is the resident professional.