Vaal de Grace Golf Course - Parys, Free State

The Vaal de Grace Golf Course in the Vaal de Grace Golf Estate is situated on an island in the Vaal River near Parys on the border of the Free State and North West provinces and is the first Nick Price signature championship golf course in South Africa. The routing is distinctive: fourteen holes lie in the North West Province on the river island, with the remaining four in the Free State. The course blends wide forgiving fairways with more challenging green complexes, making trouble mostly around the greens rather than off the tee. The river features prominently in many holes, especially on the back nine, where players are treated to holes that border or run alongside the water, providing both aesthetic pleasure and strategic challenges.

History of the course shows that it was developed as part of a lifestyle and residential estate, marrying the appeal of high calibre golf with tranquil natural surroundings. Nick Price, the celebrated golfer and course designer, lent his design expertise to the course layout. Over time the estate has included not only the golf course but also nature estate components, accommodation, and facilities designed to offer a holiday or permanent getaway from city life. The course has had periods of difficulty, especially during wider economic and logistic challenges, but efforts have been underway to restore condition and maintain its status as a destination for both serious and social golfers.

Facilities include a clubhouse overlooking the first tee and the practice range, a pro shop for gear and golf supplies, and a restaurant space suitable for relaxing after a round. Green fees are enforced for visitors with tee‐time booking required. There is also a driving range for those wishing to sharpen their longer shots, and the estate accommodation allows guests to stay on‐site in self‐catering units. The estate is well suited for those wanting a golfing holiday, combining sport, nature and comfort.

Course Overview:

• Vaal de Grace is an 18-hole championship course designed by Nick Price, making it his first full signature golf design in South Africa.
• Uniquely, fourteen of the holes are located on an island in the Vaal River in the North West Province, while the remaining four holes lie in the Free State.
• The layout is generally player-friendly, with wide fairways and a variety of hole designs. Price has planned many holes to engage with the river in interesting ways – some holes run alongside the river, some over water, so water plays a significant visual and strategic role.
• There are five sets of tees, allowing the course to be enjoyed by a range of handicaps.
• Several of the back nine holes (especially the last five) skirt the Vaal River, giving some of the most scenic views and challenges. Hole 14 is often cited as one of the most memorable: a strong par 5 with the river on the right and a well-bunkered green.