There are many great regions of Thailand for a golf holiday and Chiang Mai is one of the best. Located in the north Thailand, it may not be the first place on the list of holidaymakers but for golfers, some of the finest courses can be found here.
Alpine Golf Resort is not only regarded as one of the top golf courses in Chiang Mai but the whole of the country. It opened for play in 2008, so is a modern development and was created by Ron Garl of Golf East. The course has played host to some big tournaments and has won several awards over the years.
The 27-hole golf course is a delight to play. The surroundings are special with mountains providing a lovely backdrop in addition to the trees, valleys and rice fields. One of the rice fields has even become part of the golf course and is an element of a par-3 hole. It is the only hole currently in Thailand to have a rice filed island green and is something visitors never forget.
The 27 holes are grouped together in three sets of nine officially labelled Course A, Course B and Course C by the golf club. The latest set of nine holes have been divided into three distinct categories called the Pine Tree Zone, Wetland Zone and Paddy Zone.
Course A begins with a gentle par-4 and the bunker on the right side of the fairway should not come into play. However, as the round develops, the fairways begin to narrow and many opt to leave the driver in the bag for something more accurate. The 7th hole, which is a par-5, is arguably the most challenging and you will need to carry the same stream at least twice before landing on the green.
Course B is where water really comes into play and from the 2nd hole onwards there is the possibility of water causing an issue. You will find the longest par-5 on the course on this set of nine holes which has trees on the right and out of bounds on the left to add to the challenge. There are several intimidating tee shots on this course.
Finally, to Course C at Alpine Golf Resort where you will find some of the most challenging greens. The island green awaits on the final hole and the tee shot is key, with an approach down the right side of the fairway the best angle of attack. However, this requires a long carry over water. It’s a great way to finish a round.
The facilities at Alpine Golf Resort are excellent. You will find a superb clubhouse complete with locker rooms, restaurant, pro-shop, swimming pool, spa and gardens. You can even stay in the 4-star resort if you wish.