Voted the best new course in Asia a year after opening in 2008, Banyan Golf Club was sculpted among a former pineapple plantation.

Thailand course architect Pirapon Namatra (Golf East) has been credited with designing one of the most natural courses in the country – spectacular mountain and ocean views abound. Each hole has six tee boxes making the course more or less challenging depending on each golfer’s ability and tee selection. Strategically placed water hazards, waste bunkers, and sand traps are spread throughout the course. Significant use of native pineapple groves makes local fruits come into play if straying too far off the fairways. Be careful, pineapple plants are sharp and scratch easily.

The signature 15th hole is a 139-yard par-3 with panoramic ocean views all the way to Singtoh (Tiger) Island in the Gulf of Thailand. Hole 12, a par-5 monster is 610 yards, all uphill, making it a challenge to reach for even the most accomplished of golfers. Lush Zoysia grassed fairways, a local grass but a rarely seen on golf courses in Thailand, are a pleasure to hit from as balls sit up nicely. Dark green Paspalum grassed tee boxes add to the stark colour contrast while the premium Tiff-eagle Bermuda grass greens make for fast and receptive putting surfaces.

The Terrace Restaurant is an International all-day dining venue with a variety of Western and Thai cuisine. Mulligan’s Pub, with western views over the golf course and Burmese Mountains, is a tranquil setting to take in a perfect Thai sunset.

Walkers love Banyan but for those who opt to ride, golf carts with on-board GPS are helpful. Well-trained caddies handle all of the usual services, making sure everyone who visits has a great day golfing at Banyan Golf Club.

banyanthailand.com