Ballyshere Golf Course

What is it?: Re-modelled by Gil Hanse from the old Kiartithanee course and a 30-minute drive along the highway east of Bangkok, this par 71 course bills itself as one of the few links courses close to the city. It pays homage to the famed Lido public golf course in Long Island New York that once was ranked in the top 100 courses, while capturing the spirit of some of the most iconic holes in the world. Opened late 2021 it is a private member facility available to Ban Rakat Club members and guests.

Why we like it: The golf course exudes a natural roughness not typically found in the manicured layouts of other highly rated Thai golf Courses. It features wide undulating fairways, strong breezes changing direction at different times of the year and a classic 9-holes out and 9-holes in layout. Deep bunkers and scrubland with rambling gorse bush plus expansive water and elevated views across the course from various holes make for a truly unique experience in the Bangkok vicinity. A modern stylish club house and excellent practice facilities complete the package.

Signature hole: Each hole is named, and none more so aptly than the par 5 17th Long. A long carry is needed to clear the scrubland and then second shots need to stay left of a very long fairway bunker on the right, shared with the 18th hole, as the course curves to the right before you reach the green. Perhaps more than any other hole this encapsulates the philosophy of some of the great traditional links courses of Scotland and Ireland.

Time Out tip: Find or book a caddy that has been with the club since opening. Links golf benefits from having a knowledgeable partner on the bag. Not just helping with reads on the green but equally with club selection and pointing out various troubles/blind spots that you might not be aware of from the tee. Caddies at Ballyshere are typically well-trained.