Elements Private Golf Reserve

Elements Private Golf Reserve is located in the Limpopo Province, about a two hour drive from Johannesburg. Elements is one of the most breathtaking malaria-free bushveld courses in southern Africa, and another triumph for the renowned designer, Peter Matkovich. After a few turbulent years, the course is returning to its former glory and it remains a favourite with visitors on South Africa golf holidays.

After slipping down the rankings the course has bounced back in 2023 to be rated 10th in South Africa, one round is enough to convince you they were short changed, (although the drop in the rankings from a top 10 spot is largely due to the problems at the course in 2016 which are now behind them).  The course now scores well overall for its condition as well as design and won the accolade of best value green fees.

Taking in the natural surroundings of the Limpopo region, a round on this course is not only a game of golf but a retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.  The layout winds through the surrounding bushveld which has been tamed, (but only just) to provide a challenging yet immensely enjoyable course. Both the front and back nines return to a set of tricky greens surrounded by tranquil stretches of water.

All of the par 3 holes are engagingly deceptive, especially the raised green of the 11th hole which has a sharp slope running off to the right and the 9th hole which is over the water, to a postage stamp green. The fact that the 9th is also overlooked by the restaurant and halfway house, only adds to the pressure of landing your ball on the seemingly decreasing sliver of grass.

Small antelope, warthogs and other plains animals frequent the fairways, only adding to the enjoyment of this wonderful, testing course. It is fairly flat and easy to walk, but on a hot day the water stops are welcome relief and a cart provides some protection from the sun.

There is a driving range and practice areas for anyone who feels the need to loosen up!

Elements has a large restaurant which offers meals throughout the day. Accommodation is available in very nice self catering 2 bedroom lodges and staff can bring prepared meals to anyone staying there. The lodges are fully equipped with a kitchen, satellite TV, and have a small patio and plunge pool. There is also a swimming pool located next to the clubhouse.

It is possible to combine golf at Elements with a round at the nearby Zebula Resort. Guests can opt to stay at Zebula which is more lively, and play Elements. It is also located about an hours drive from the Welgevonden Game Reserve in the Waterberg which has some top class safari lodges and game viewing.

This is one of our staff’s favourites and would highly recommend a visit to play the courses in this area.

For more information about playing golf at Elements Golf Course or other South Africa golf holidays, contact us here or call +44 208 249 5919 to speak to our Golf Holiday experts.