When my husband asked if he could play a round of golf on our honeymoon, I said “yes”. I’m not too sure if this was the right answer or not. Judging from the reaction of the other men at the club, I think my decision was a rare one. Nevertheless, I was happy to take up the task of driving the golf cart while my hubby directed me (“GET OFF THE GREENS!”) to each hole. I thought this would be a chance to spend time together, but I soon realised that once my dear husband was in “the zone”, there was little chance of engaging with him. My failed attempts to distract him led me to the following conclusion: Golf Always Wins.
Needless to say that was probably the last time I accompanied my husband on the golf course. I have since joined the ranks of “golf widows”; enjoying weekends with girlfriends or entertaining the kids while my dear husband has a “short” 4-and-a-half hour game that somehow seems to extend to most of the day.
When it comes to planning a dream vacation, we have a standing agreement. It will be a golf resort…but one that has something to entertain the Mrs too. And what do a lot of top-notch golf resorts offer that gives my man heebie-jeebies? A spa! It delights me to see these resorts catering to the needs of the golf widow. So while the man is off smacking little white balls into the air, I will be enjoying tranquil massages and treatments galore…with a cocktail close at hand.
Here are 2 South African accommodations that offer pleasurable greens for men and spas for women:
Euphoria Hotel, Golf Estate & Spa
This 4-star hotel lies in the heart of Limpopo’s Waterberg region. I love the idea of candle-lit dinners in the boma, surrounded by bush and under the stars. It’s the perfect way to reunite with your partner after a day of bliss!
The Golf Course: The unsurpassed beauty and tranquil setting contradicts the challenging nature of the Euphoria 18-hole Championship Golf Course. Designed by Annika Sorenstam, number one female golfer for the past five years, it is the first lady-golfers’ signature golf course in South Africa.
The Spa: Euphoria’s Hydro Villa is a first of its kind destination spa concept. Healing hot mineral springs on the property allow for the development of a natural hot water Hydro that promises an out of this world experience.
Selborne Hotel, Golf Estate & Spa
Selborne assures me that discreet but attentive staff will pamper you with personal service and tend to your every need. You also have the chance to swim with dolphins along KwaZulu-Natal’s Sunshine Coast! What more could a girl wish for?
The Golf Course: Situated on South Africa’s “Golf Coast”, this superb 18-hole masterpiece offers breath-taking scenery as golfers weave their way through manicured fairways and coastal forest. Selborne has received the Compleat Golfer’s Five-star Golf Experience Award; based on service excellence, top-class clubhouse facilities, golf course conditioning and overall lingering experience.
Visitors are most welcome and can enjoy full use of the club facilities while they are there. It is advisable to book your game in advance. All visitors are required to provide the necessary particulars when making a booking. Members competitions are on a Thursday & Saturday and the club will therefore run off two tees on those days. Summer tee-times: 06h30 – 14h00. Winter tee-times: 07h00 – 13h00.
The Spa: Click here for the full list of treatments and pricelist
What would be your dream holiday with your partner?
