With about 25 eighteen holes layouts to consider, picking the best golf courses in Hanoi is quite tricky. It becomes especially difficult when you factor in the sensational backdrops that most golf in Hanoi is set up against. It goes to show that the Hanoi may well be one of the most underrated golf destinations going around. In the meanwhile, back to task, here is a current list of 5 must play golf courses in Hanoi
1. Van Tri
Van Tri may well be the flattest of the courses in this list, but that doesn’t take away from the challenge on the course. With water almost everywhere and some smart design by Peter Rousseau, there is plenty to think about. The course is quite private in nature, although access to visitors on weekdays can be facilitated. The course condition – the tee boxes, the fairways and the surrounding water may well be the best amongst the golf courses in Hanoi. The water lends to the spectacular element, which golfers never forget.
2. BRG Kings Island Resort, Kings Course
Kings Island which is reached by a short yet full of character boat ride after an hour’s drive from Hanoi is home to 3 eighteen hole courses. The latest of the three, the Jack Nicklaus II designed Kings Course at the BRG Kings Island Resort opened in 2018. The Kings course may not be as challenging as the Mountainside or Lakeview courses, but is clearly inspired by them. The first half of the course cuts through the forest while back half plays around large lakes and has an open feel. The bonus to golfers comes in the form of the 19th hole a par 3, where you tee off from a rock to an island green below. The BRG Kings Island Resort with its 3 golf courses and magnificent setting is a true haven for golf in Hanoi.
3. BRG Legend Hill
Another product of Nicklaus Design, The BRG Legend Hill is now one of the top golf courses in Hanoi. Set in the scenic area of the Soc San Hills, this track is a must in any plan for golf in Hanoi. Especially, given its close proximity to the Hanoi airport it is an easy one to do. There is plenty of water in play on the course which along with strategically placed bunkers adds significant challenge. But the novelty of the course lies in its twin greens. Each of the 18 holes on the course has 2 greens – which translate into getting a different experience on the same course. Not only are you playing different approach shots, the plan for your tee shot itself may change.
4. Sky Lake Course ( Sky Course)
The Sky Lake Resort & Golf Club is home to 2 golf courses – the Sky and the Lake courses. The resort is set in the very scenic Van Son Lake area making for a rewarding getaway. Of the two courses, the Lake course is open only to members, while the Sky course accepts visitors. The Lake course is probably better if not more punishing of the 2 courses. However since access to it is difficult, the Sky course is what matters. Golfers will have no reason to complain about the experience – quite typical of the spectacular natural settings for most golf in Hanoi. Elevation changes, undulating terrain, plenty of water, well placed bunkers, rolling greens and mesmerising views make golf here a memorable experience.
5. Phoenix Golf Resort – Champion Course
The main reason that Phoenix Golf Resort with its 54 holes has been included in this list is its surreal setting. The limestone outcrops, which are typical of the area around Hanoi and Halong Bay are the key features of the golf courses. With the possible exception of some golf courses in China, such a setting is to not found anywhere else in the world. This unique and mesmerising experience at Phoenix Golf Resort helps make it one of the must play golf courses in Hanoi. It is true that the rest of the experience here does not match that of the other courses. But that’s not what you are there for. As a tip, the Champion Course is the best of the 3 courses at Phoenix Golf Resort and the one to pick.
