One likely outcome of Covid-19 for golf tourists is to target stay and play golf resorts to reduce ground transportation. As far as Thailand golf goes, avid golf holidayers need not fret as the country is home to several golf resorts. In fact there are many high quality Thailand golf courses that offer accommodation facilities on site. This allows for both a fulfilling as well as relaxed golf experience without the hustle of commuting. Here’s a look at the 5 best stay and play Thailand golf resorts, which could help golfers in planning their next Thailand golf tour.
Black Mountain Golf Resort, Hua Hin
Black Mountain is one of the top golf courses in Thailand and one of the must plays for golf tourists. The recent addition of the West Course has helped make it a 27 hole facility, allowing for variety as different 18 hole combinations. Short stay tourists can look forward to staying at the 2 and 3 bedroom pool villas which are located next to the clubhouse. Amenities include the clubhouse restaurant open from 6 am to 9 pm, a mini mart and laundry service. Guests can get around within the resort by a complimentary shuttle that runs between the resort, clubhouse and waterpark. For those looking to get to Hua Hin town, there is a complimentary shuttle bus (one-way only) that runs periodically from 11 am to 6.30 pm. The Black Mountain golf resort is situated about 3 hours drive from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi resort.
Banyan Thailand, Hua Hin
Hua Hin boasts of another of the best Thailand golf courses – Banyan, which many golfers put ahead of Black Mountain. Like Black Mountain, Banyan too offers accommodation – thus providing another alternative in Hua Hin. Unlike Black Mountain, where the accommodation is next to the golf club, the villas at Banyan are situated about a 7-8 minute drive away. However golfers should not believe that to be too much of a challenge, especially considering the quality of the villas. Yet, if one insists on staying at the course, there are 4 club suites available for stay at the clubhouse of the golf resort. This can be an interesting option, considering the restaurant is located there itself. The Banyan stay and play has to count amongst the best Thailand golf experiences.
Chiang Mai Highlands Golf Resort & Spa, Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Highlands is one of the best golf courses if not the best golf course in Chiang Mai. The 27-hole facility that features three sets of nine-holes – the Valley, Mountain and Highlands is a treat for any golfer. The resort set in the foothills, east of Chiang Mai is ideal for relaxation in natural settings comprising forest, hills, lake and river . There are 19 resort villas done in typical Lanna style, at a walking distance from the clubhouse. The resort is complemented by a spa that helps make it self sufficient when it comes to the ideal Thailand golf break.
Kirimaya Golf Resort and Spa, Khao Yai
A fine Jack Nicklaus designed par 72 golf course in one of the great world parks – Khao Yai National Park setting can do wonders. That is exactly what the Kirimaya Golf Resort & Spa offers, making it a Thailand golf resort not to be missed. Situated just about 2 & ½ hours drive from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport, Kirimaya and the Khao Yai National Park is a treat for nature lovers. The cooler mountain air, the luxurious accommodations and the wellness spas are the perfect ingredients for a relaxed Thailand golf escape. There are other ways to relax too – trekking on jungle trails and bird watching amongst a few. The winter months are a great time to visit Khao Yai and the Kirimaya experience is guaranteed to make you return.
Chatrium Golf Resort, Soi Dao, Chanthaburi
The Dennis Griffiths Soi Dao golf course is one of the hidden gems amongst the Thailand golf courses. The course set in the mountains of the Pong Nom Ron range in Chanthaburi is known for its spectacular scenery and cool mountain air. Golfers are thrilled both by the challenges of the golf course and the ravishing nature that unfolds. To complement the course is a luxury 4-star hotel with rooms and suites that offer views of stunning nature. The resort is located near the Cambodia border, at just under a 4 hour drive southeast of Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport.