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Bhumibol
Dam
25 km west of Highway 1, near Tak, 250 km south of
Chiang Mai.
Tel: (055) 512-635
If you really
want to get away from it all, one of Southeast Asia's
most beautiful courses is situated in the absolute
middle of nowhere in north-central Thailand, Bhumibol
Dam is one of several fine courses owned by EGAT (Electricity
Generating Authority of Thailand). Set in spectacular
scenery, the original magnificent trees have been
carefully preserved. Ridiculously inexpensive, those
who have made the long journey claim to have found
the ultimate golf experience.
Booking: no problem - you could be alone on
the course.
Green fees: weekday/weekend $.
Chiang
Mai-Lamphun Country Club
On Highway 1006 (to
Lamphun) about 30 km southeast of Chiang Mai.
Tel: (053) 248-321; Fax (053) 248-937
Gorgeous valley
setting for this picturesque 18-hole par 72 course
deep in the countryside. lt recently changed its name
from Chiang Mai Country Club. The drier heat of Chiang
Mai makes this area the most pleasant climate in Thailand
for Western visitors, especially in the winter months.
Very fair value. The best hotels are in Chiang Mai
city, 45 minutes drive.
Booking: reserve at weekends. Closed on Tuesdays.
Facilities: pro-shop, club hire, restaurant,
carts.
Green fees: weekday $; w/e $$.
Green Valley
Chiang Mai 10 km north
of Chiang Mai, near Mae Rim.
Tel: (053) 297- 386; Fax: (053) 316-8349
The developers
stripped all the vegetation off the site before creating
a course of wide open spaces with little shade. The
fairways and greens are in superb condition, and the
clubhouse is a model of excellence. Dennis Griffiths
has created a long and thirsty round, very difficult
to play to par. It is fairly expensive.
Booking: members 'priority, but should be no
problems for visitors.
Green fees: weekday $$$: weekend $$$$
Lanna
2 km north of Chiang
Mai on the Mae Rim Rd.
Tel: (053) 221911; (053) 221743
Lovely old
18-hole par 72 course overlooking the race track and
with views of the famed Doi Suthep temple. The fairways,
now fully watered. are lined with mature trees, providing
lots of welcome shade. There is a modest new clubhouse.
Owned and managed by the Royal Thai army, the course
is excellent value for money. lf you can't get on,
try Thailand's oldest course, the 9-hole Gymkhana
Club, just across the river.
Booking: often busy in the evenings and at
weekends, but you should get on, unless there is a
tournament.
Facilities:
pro shop, club hire, carts. restaurant.
Green fees: weekday $; weekend $$.
Santiburi
10 km southeast of Chiang
Rai, 80 km north of Chiang Mai.
Tel: (053) 718-081; Fax: (053) 717-377
Chiang Rai,
the last stop before the Golden Triangle and Burma,
is a charming riverside town with great holiday potential.
The 18-hole par 72 is set on low hills, with distant
views of mountains. It is designed by Robert Trent
Jones Jr., and, as always with his courses, is thoroughly
enjoyable for all classes of golfer. There is a most
agreeable clubhouse and a 120-bed hotel is planned.
Booking: should be no problem.
Green fees: weekday $$; weekend $$$.
Waterford
Valley
On Highway 1173, northeast
of Chiang Rai, near the new airport.
Tel: (053) 718-076; Fax: 260-0405
Set in attractive
rolling countryside, this enjoyable course was designed
by Rathert International. There is a pleasant clubhouse,
at which visitors are made to feel truly welcome.
A five-star hotel is planned. Chiang Rai, being so
remote and cooler than most of Thailand is one of
the very best places for a quiet weekend, with many
excursions available for the family. Highly recommended.
Booking: should be no problem.
Green fees: weekday $$; weekend $$$
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