Enrique Razon, known for his influence in ports and casinos, has expanded his investments into South Africa by acquiring the prestigious Pearl Valley Golf Course, one of the country’s top-ranked courses.

This acquisition is part of a broader development project, including the hotel on the property in the picturesque Cape Winelands. South Africa’s anti-trust authority approved the deal, as confirmed by a government notice on 20 March.

Entities connected to Razon have secured ownership of Pearl Valley Golf & Country Estate, a renowned Jack Nicklaus signature course. The estate was previously owned by a company controlled by shareholders, including Ryk Neethling, the celebrated South African businessman and Olympic gold medalist swimmer.

The acquisition signals a significant move for Razon in the luxury and hospitality market in South Africa. Known for his leadership in various sectors, Razon chairs International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI), a global port operator that won a multi-billion-rand bid in 2023 to revitalize Durban’s port, the largest container port in sub-Saharan Africa. The acquisition of Pearl Valley adds a prestigious dimension to Razon’s extensive portfolio.

Pearl Valley is a celebrated destination for golf lovers, located just outside the charming town of Paarl in the Western Cape.

Opened in 2003, the course has earned a reputation as one of South Africa’s top golf courses. Designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, the course offers a challenging yet beautiful layout with a mix of water features, vast bunkers, and tree-lined fairways. Its strategic design ensures it caters to golfers of all skill levels, providing both a test for seasoned professionals and a rewarding experience for beginners.

Pearl Valley has hosted several prominent tournaments, including the South African PGA Championship, and has consistently ranked among South Africa’s best golf courses. Its scenic location at the foot of the Boland Mountain Range only adds to its allure, with sweeping views of lush greenery and the surrounding Cape Winelands.

Razon, who has an estimated net worth of $9.32 billion according to Bloomberg, is no stranger to high-profile investments.

Besides his role in ICTSI, which operates over 30 port terminals across 20 countries, Razon also founded Bloomberry Resorts Corp., the largest casino operator in the Philippines. His business acumen extends to the world of sports as well; he serves as the chairman and president of Pilipinas Golf Tournaments Inc. and is a major supporter of golf in his home country.

Through these ventures, Razon has built a diversified portfolio with a strong international presence, and his latest acquisition of Pearl Valley Golf Course marks an exciting new chapter in his growing influence in the South African and global hospitality markets.

Designed to offer a combination of challenge and beauty, the Pearl Valley Golf Course is celebrated for its signature holes and strategic layout. The par-3 17th hole is one of the most memorable, where players must navigate a large water feature to reach an elevated green.

The course is known for its fast, undulating greens and its ability to test players’ precision and course management skills.

With its world-class practice facilities, including driving ranges and putting greens, Pearl Valley ensures that golfers have every opportunity to hone their skills.

The course’s location within the Cape Winelands offers more than just golf. Guests can enjoy luxury accommodations, fine dining, and a range of leisure activities, including spa treatments, nature walks, and wine tasting, all set against the stunning backdrop of vineyards and olive groves.

For golf enthusiasts, the acquisition of Pearl Valley by Razon opens the door to further investment and potential improvements to the estate, adding to its already stellar reputation. The course’s history of hosting high-profile events and its stunning design make it a key attraction for international golfers. The addition of world-class amenities, as expected with Razon’s backing, could enhance the experience even further, bringing a new level of luxury and prestige to the Cape Winelands region.

With Razon’s vision for both sports and hospitality, Pearl Valley Golf Course is set to maintain its status as one of South Africa’s premier golfing destinations while also benefiting from the broader international attention that comes with Razon’s global business empire.