Playing golf in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand is a great experience. There are some tremendous golf courses and one of the most highly rated by locals and visitors alike is Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort.
Located just 45 minutes from the centre of the city, you can choose to stay in Chiang Mai itself or at the resort. Whatever you opt to do, the journey from Chiang Mai to the golf course is superb as you pass rice fields and plantations on your way up to the highlands.
For those who like their golf courses in a spectacular location, Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort does not disappoint. Regardless of the hole you are playing, the views in all directions are fabulous and it is easy to see why this golf course has won so many awards over the years. It was voted third for 'Best New Golf Course in Asia' by Asian Golf Monthly and won the “Best Golf Resort in Asia” award in 2015.
Created by Schmidt-Curley Design, Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort features bold green paspalum fairways and Tiff eagle greens. The greens in particular are of a very high quality, running fast and true throughout the 27 holes. Many of the greens slope from front to back and it is worth keeping that in mind when playing approach shots.
The bunkers are very easy on the eye and their design add to the beauty of the course. However, they are also the main hazard and can be very punishing, leading to dropped shots. The areas around the greens allow for varied shot selection including pitch shots, chip and runs and putting if you would prefer to leave the irons in the bag.
The course at Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort is split into three sets of nine holes called the Valley Course, Highlands Course and Mountain Course. There is water on several of the holes and it comes into play on a few of them, with the three of the first four holes of the Highlands Course a good example.
There are five tee boxes on each hole which makes the course suitable for players of all abilities. Most players fall in love with Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort from the first tee thanks to the downhill tee shot and the views of the course and mountains into the distance.
Off course facilities include locker rooms, pro-shop, spa and a restaurant which serves a wide ranging menu including burgers, salads, pasta dishes and Thai food. The accommodation is located close to the clubhouse and includes several different types of villa and access to the resort swimming pool.
So, you could easily make a night of it and stay at Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort or book a tee time and make the trip from your own accommodation.