Closed in 2006-2007 for a complete renovation, American architects Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley have kept the original routing, for the most part, while modernising all aspects of the course. Upgrades to the original out-and-back parallel holes included curved fairways, new water hazards, high lipped bunkers and relocated greens. New greenside bunker complexes add to Siam’s legendary, undulating putting surfaces.

Since reopening in 2007, the golf course has hosted several international golf tournaments including being the home of the LPGA Tour’s Honda Classic since 2010.  In 2018, Siam CC Old Course was recognised for its excellence when it was voted 73rd best golf course in the world by Golf Digest magazine.

The 7,162 yard, par-72 layout is set in the low hills just a few kilometres from Pattaya and contains more than its fair share of mature trees, shrubs and plants. A large golden Buddha is watching over the course and can be seen clearest from the all uphill 9th hole. The Siam Old Course boasts many dramatic challenges, particularly the last four holes which are Siam’s answer to Amen Corner, arguably the best finishing holes of any Pattaya golf course. If you’re having a good day and scoring well, take care as this closing stretch which can easily bring you back to earth.

The clubhouse is still the original structure dated from the 1970’s with major interior facelifts brightening up the facilities. Permanently mounted binoculars in the clubhouse help bring the distant farms and other golf courses in the area into close view.

siamcountryclub.com

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Opened in 2005, a club regularly rated as the best in Chiang Mai is the work of Lee Schmidt of Schmidt-Curley Design from the USA who boasts  Mission Hills, Amata Spring, and Siam CC among his other Asian masterpieces.

Offering the choice of five tee boxes, the Highlands course is challenging for players of all abilities. Paspalum grassed fairways and Tiff-eagle grass greens ensure excellent surfaces and consistent greens that typically run around 10 on the Stimp-meter year-round. The 130 fairway and greenside bunker complexes are deep and punishing but lend a nice contrast to frame each hole.

The greens at Chiangmai Highlands are undulating and typically run around 10 on the Stimp-meter, firm yet receptive and hold well-struck iron shots. Many greens slope front to back which pressurises golfers to pay more attention to strategy and utilise local caddie knowledge to putt in regulation.

The approach areas around green complexes often feature tightly clipped catchment areas giving options of playing either a chip-and-run, pitch shot or even putting the ball up onto the green surface. Imagination is a terrific asset when trying to get up and down at Chiang Mai Highlands.

A Thai-styled clubhouse promises a pleasant atmosphere. There is a small on-site Thai resort with private cottages for those wanting to stay in the countryside and play multiple rounds at Chiang Mai Highlands.

chiangmaihighlands.com/golf

The post Travel Guide 2020: Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort appeared first on Golf Digest Middle East.