Observatory Golf Course ☆ Follow

Observatory Golf Club was officially established in 1914, with the course extended to 18 holes in 1922. Observatory Golf Club is the oldest golf club in Johannesburg still operating from its original grounds, celebrating their 100th anniversary in 2014. The course plays to a total par of 72 and consists of four Par 3's, 10 Par 4's and four Par 5's over 18 holes with a Course Rating of 73.4 and a Slope of 135. The course offers a range of play between 6131 to 6460 meters in length, catering to various skill levels and preferences.

The course is not that long, but with narrow fairways and smaller greens, is a true test of intellectual golf. The course layout is a mix of gentle slopes, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards, providing a balanced challenge for both amateur and seasoned players. The Par-5 7th Hole is a picturesque hole with a view of Johannesburg City Centre from the raised tee-box with a blind fall to a smallish green guarded in front by a pond. The par-4 10th Hole is stroke 1 for a reason. The out of bounds boundary fence running along the right hand side of the narrow fairway, with a tree line along the left hand side, is intimidating enough to make many a golfer leave the driver in the bag. Bunkers guard the long, narrow green left and right with a steep slope off to the left if you miss the green. This hole has proven many a golfer's nemesis.

Bobby Locke, one of South Africa's greatest golfers, won the Open Championship four times playing out of Observatory. The Henning brothers learnt to play their golf at Observatory.