Vietnam Golf Gems: Top Courses on an All Square Journey
All Square 5min read •
28 Feb 2025
Vietnam has quietly carved out a reputation as one of Asia’s most captivating golf destinations, blending world-class courses with stunning natural landscapes and a rich cultural tapestry. The All Square rankings offer a definitive guide to the country’s finest fairways, and in this golfing odyssey, we’ll take you through the top courses that have earned their place among Vietnam’s elite. From coastal dunes to highland retreats, these layouts showcase the diversity and brilliance of Vietnamese golf.
BRG Danang Golf Resort: The Coastal Classic
Our journey begins at BRG Danang Golf Resort, a Greg Norman masterpiece that sits along the sun-kissed shores of Danang. This links-style gem weaves through rolling dunes, with the salty breeze off the East Sea adding an extra layer of challenge. The course’s rugged beauty is matched by its strategic design—think firm fairways that bleed into sandy wastes and greens that demand precision. Standout moments include the par-5 10th, where the distant Marble Mountains frame a daring shot over dunes, and the short 16th, offering a fleeting glimpse of the ocean. It’s a layout that feels both timeless and wild, perfectly embodying Vietnam’s rise as a golfing powerhouse.
Laguna Golf Lang Co: Nature’s Masterpiece
A short drive north brings us to Laguna Golf Lang Co, a Sir Nick Faldo creation nestled between the Truong Son Mountains and the shimmering coastline of Lang Co Bay. This par-71 stretches across a diverse canvas—threading through rice paddies, skirting streams, and flirting with the surf. Faldo’s design philosophy shines here, rewarding thoughtful shot-making over brute force. The scenery is nothing short of breathtaking, with jungle-clad peaks and sandy shores providing a backdrop that lingers long after the round ends. It’s a course that invites you to slow down, strategise, and soak in the serenity of this unspoiled corner of Vietnam.
Ba Na Hills Golf Club: The Highland Haven
Next, we ascend to Ba Na Hills Golf Club, a Luke Donald-designed marvel perched in the misty hills above Danang. This mountain course is a visual feast, with elevation changes that reveal sweeping vistas of lush forests and distant coastlines. Spanning over 7,800 yards from the back tees, it’s a beast that tests every club in the bag, yet multiple tee options ensure it’s approachable for all. The par-3 12th is a highlight, dropping downhill to a green framed by bunkers and boundless greenery. Add in the novelty of floodlights for night play, and you’ve got a golfing experience that’s as unique as it is exhilarating.
Dalat Palace Golf Club: A Historic Retreat
For a taste of history, Dalat Palace Golf Club beckons in the cool highlands of Dalat. Built over a century ago under the patronage of Vietnam’s last king, this course exudes old-world charm while delivering a modern challenge. Its bent grass greens—rare in tropical Asia—roll true and fast, set amidst rolling hills and pine forests that evoke a European vibe. The retro clubhouse, a nod to the 1950s, serves up local delicacies alongside panoramic views of Xuan Huong Lake. It’s a step back in time, yet the meticulous upkeep keeps it firmly in the present as one of Vietnam’s most beloved layouts.
Montgomerie Links Vietnam: Scotland Meets the Tropics
Back on the coast, Montgomerie Links Vietnam brings a touch of Scottish flair to Danang, courtesy of Colin Montgomerie. Positioned between the East Sea and the iconic Marble Mountains, this par-72 unfurls across sandy terrain with bold bunkering and contoured greens. The front nine leans traditional, with tree-lined fairways, while the back nine twists through dunes, culminating in a dramatic finish. It’s a course that’s earned accolades—like a spot on Forbes Travel Guide’s list of Asia’s elite—thanks to its blend of playability and postcard-worthy scenery.
Vietnam Golf and Country Club: The Urban Oasis
Heading south, Vietnam Golf and Country Club offers a slice of golfing prestige near Ho Chi Minh City. As the nation’s first 36-hole facility, it’s a favourite among local pros and weekend warriors alike. The West Course, with its tight, tree-lined fairways, contrasts beautifully with the East Course’s wider landing zones and water hazards. Designed by Lee Trevino, the East stretches to nearly 7,000 yards, demanding accuracy amid manicured greenery. Just 20 kilometres from the bustling city, it’s an accessible escape that feels worlds away.
Van Tri Golf Resort: The Northern Gem
Up north near Hanoi, Van Tri Golf Resort stands out as an exclusive retreat. This private, championship-calibre course integrates water and doglegs into a layout that’s as scenic as it is stern. The pristine conditions reflect its low-traffic status, while the surrounding countryside adds a tranquil vibe. It’s a hidden gem that rewards those willing to seek it out, offering a refined golfing experience in Vietnam’s capital region.
ChiLinh Golf: The Hilly Escape
ChiLinh Golf, another northern standout, sprawls across a hilly expanse in Hai Duong province. With 27 holes carved through natural terrain, it’s a playground of elevation changes and strategic options. The course’s lush fairways wind past lakes and forests, with panoramic views that elevate the experience. It’s a versatile setup that caters to both casual rounds and competitive play, making it a northern favourite.
King’s Island Golf Club: The Island Adventure
Finally, King’s Island Golf Club delivers a unique twist near Hanoi. Set on an island in Dong Mo Lake, it’s accessible only by boat, adding a dash of adventure to the day. The 36-hole complex splits into the Lakeside and Mountainview courses, the latter designed by Jack Nicklaus. Wide fairways meet intricate bunkering, with Ba Vi Mountain looming in the distance. It’s a harmonious blend of nature and design, rounding out Vietnam’s top-tier offerings with a flourish.
These All Square-ranked courses paint a vivid picture of Vietnam’s golfing allure—each one a distinct chapter in a story of sand, sea, and highlands. Whether you’re chasing a challenging round or simply the next great view, Vietnam delivers in spades. Pack your clubs, and let this S-shaped nation surprise you with its fairways and beyond.
