Most golfers remember a round for the scenery as much as the score. When a course sits against a mountain range, with forest on one side and water on the other, each hole feels a little more special. That's one of the allures of playing golf in the Thai destination of Soi Dao.
Mountains that change your game
Many golfers choosing a golf hotel in Thailand think of beaches first, but the mountains offer a different feel. Courses in places like Soi Dao in Chanthaburi sit off the usual tourist routes, so the pace is slower and the surroundings quieter. The changing elevations also demand a little more thought with every shot, making the landscape part of the challenge rather than simply a backdrop.
Scenery that sets the mood
At properties here like Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi, for example, an 18-hole, par-72 course stretches across about 395 acres of mountainside landscapes. Mist-covered hills rise behind the course, and the holes are lined with native hardwood trees as well as creeks and lakes. Mountain surroundings encourage a slower pace, allowing players to appreciate the natural scenery between shots. The experience feels different from squeezing in a round during a busy city break, with more room to focus on the game itself.
A course that 'asks questions'
The layout of a course can be undulating, with water hazards and bunkers guarding some greens, so accuracy matters more than distance. It’s also hilly, so a cart is a sensible choice, and a local caddie helps with the reads.
Time to explore the area
There's much more to do here than just play golf. Phu Soi Dao National Park, for instance, is a popular trekking area known for forests, mountains and waterfalls, so a round or two of golf can easily be paired with a walk or a waterfall visit later on.
Slow down, take in the view, and let the mountains set the tempo.