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That the neighbouring Lost City course is not rated in the nation's top ten was due solely to problems, since alleviated, associated with its playing surface.
They centre upon the heat-loving Bermuda grass used for the fairways. This has proved less than successful in the lower temperatures of the peak season of June to August when clear skies have night temperatures below 15F.
But it's all been replaced by the kikuyu strain that works like a charm next door.
Lost City is totally different in character. The terrain is much hillier and thus carts are mandatory.
Everything is in view from most tees and, a couple of holes excepted, driving is somewhat easier here.
The approach shots are more demanding: large contoured greens have multiple defences and the emphasis is on imaginative course management. If in doubt lay-up is sound advice.
The opening loop is desert-like, with lots of sand and waste bunkers; the inward loop can only be African. It's akin to a walk in the bush, in fact only a wire fence separates it from the game reserve.
The green at the short 13th imitates the map of Africa and the tee shot must carry a huge pit that's home to 40 or so crocodiles. As local colour goes it takes some beating...
Legend has it that a local pro once played a recovery shot from down there, but it's not recommended practice!
Gary Player rates this course, which opened in 1992, as one of his finest and says it can only improve. You may find nothing comparable.
My next call involved a one hour flight north east to Hoedspruit on the edge of the Kruger National Park. There, near the township of Phalaborwa, came two more discoveries.
THINK of a game lodge and you'll probably conjure up visions of huts with basic necessities, questionable plumbing and meals cooked on a camp fire under the stars. Wrong again!
The Kapama Lodge, set in 12,000 acres of private game reserve, is a five star inn overlooking a lake where luxury is a by-word. It's rather like the Ritz but with a thatched roof and lions at the bottom of the garden!
There are 20 twin bedded cottages and a central lodge with lounges and dining room and an open air bar alongside a small swimming pool. The staff ratio seems to be one for one and both the service and cuisine were outstanding.
The serenity was tangible. Some guests call in for two nights; others luxuriate here for two weeks and return frequently. It's not cheap but it's worth every penny.
There's a game drive each morning and evening, three hours in a Land Cruiser or one hour on foot, the ultimate spine tingler, with an armed safari guide. We saw every species, close up. It was exhilarating.
I pondered a holiday combining game lodge and golf and discovered that it's possible.
An hour away by road is the Hans Merensky Country Club. It is equally unique and uplifting.
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