The biggest draw of Cambodia are the magnificent temples of Angkor, with Angkor Wat taking center stage and it is no wonder then that it should feature amongst the world’s greatest wonders – there is hardly a tourist who would disagree with that. As incredible as these temples are, visiting them is not the only activity to seek on a trip to Siem Reap, the city that serves as the gateway to these temples.
For avid golfers visiting Siem Reap, there are 3 high-quality golf courses to choose from – Sir Nick Faldo designed Angkor Golf Resort which has consistently ranked as the best golf course in Cambodia after it opened. The layout built over former paddy fields, interspersed with strategic bunkering, with water regularly in play offers a challenging set of 18 holes. The golf course is always maintained in top condition and is well complimented by a modern clubhouse and restaurant. Phokeethra Country Club, a part of the Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort is the oldest of the three courses in Siem Reap and probably the most challenging with some serious bunkering – including waste areas and hazards that come into play apart from the omnipresent water bodies. There are serious considerations to be made before planning any shot, which adds to the thrill and pleasure of playing at this layout. No matter how you play, there is always the comforting thought of going back to the verandahs of the colonial clubhouse building and relishing a meal catered by Sofitel. The third golf course – the Booyoung Golf Resort makes up the trio of golf courses needed to make the perfect Cambodia golf holiday at the base of the Angkor Wat.
But the Cambodia golf holiday doesn’t have to begin and end with the golf courses in Siem Reap. In fact, for those who have already experienced the Angkor Wat or are not necessarily fascinated by it, a golf holiday in Phnom Penh the capital city could very well be the recipe. On the banks of the majestic Mekong, Phnom Penh is the bustling capital of the kingdom of Cambodia, probably as alive and kicking as some of the other metropolitan cities of South East Asian countries. While there is plenty to experience and see that reflects strongly of contemporary Cambodian culture, the magic of the French influence is everywhere to see and feel. And the nightlife in the capital is second to none – just walk along the Mekong or the side streets and one cannot imagine a better place to hang out and party. Just what a bunch of golfers needs after their round of golf on a golf holiday.
The two best golf courses in Phnom Penh have to be Garden City Golf Club and the Grand Phnom Penh Golf Club both about a half hour drive from the city center. The Garden City Golf Club is known for its resort style championship layout and boasts of immaculate conditioning. The clubhouse and the locker rooms compliment the facility to provide an overall golf experience of the highest standards. The Grand is an investment of the Ciputra group of Indonesia. It stays true to its standards set by Jack Nicklaus, who designed this golf course.
Overall it must be said, Cambodia with its two main destinations in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh offers the complete combination needed for a first class golf holiday. The proximity and connectivity to South East Asian hubs like Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur make these two cities golf destinations in their own right.
