Royal Bang Pa-in Golf Club

What is it?: Royal Bang Pa-In Golf Club, designed by Schmidt-Curley Design, opened in 2017, is located in Ayutthaya province, just under an hour’s drive from Bangkok. It offers a serious golfing challenge set in a serene countryside setting. Green fees are high for a public course but the experience is that of a very exclusive country club.

Why we like it: The course is laid out over an expansive 100-hectare site. The par-72 championship course stretches over 7,200 yards but with multiple tee boxes catering fairly to all skill levels. Wide, beautifully mown fairways allow confidence off the tee, water hazards, well-placed bunkers and subtly contoured greens demand thoughtful shot-making. There is a rhythm to the course as the front nine allows you to relax into your game while the tempo is raised on the back nine with tighter approaches and a lot more water in play. The clubhouse facilities are housed in a modernist design exuding class, service is exemplary and the F&B offerings are first-class.

Signature hole: The long par 5 fifth hole on the east 9 is a true challenge. With water along the right and mature shrubs and trees on the left, the focus is staying on the ample fairway and avoiding a variety of bunkers. The green is at a dog-leg right angle and offers true reward/risk for those aiming to get on in two. 

Time Out tip: Schedule a lunchtime start to catch the afternoon breeze – it’ll test your club selection, but the cooling effect is worth it. Post-round, grab a cocktail at the clubhouse to soak in the sunset; by the time you finish, the peak-hour rush back into town should have settled.