Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi

The 18-hole Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi is located in the Khao Soi Dao Mountains, near Chanthaburi.

It takes around three hours to reach the golf course from Pattaya and a bit longer from Bangkok, along expressways.

The course was upgraded in 2015 by Thai designer Pirapon Namatra who also created the Banyan and Nikanti golf courses.

It is a par 72 course running at 7,144 yards from the black tees, to a more manageable 5,306 from their red tees.

The 18 holes are surrounded by the majestic and mist-covered Pong Nam Ron mountains of Soi Dao, with an abundance of forests, native hardwood trees, creeks, lakes, and colourful flora.

Being far away from developed areas creates excellent weather, with most days having bright blue skies and comfortable temperatures.

Although the surrounding terrain is mountainous, the course offers a combination of a number of raised tee boxes, fairly flat fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and some large undulating greens.

Soi Dao caters to those looking for a relaxing round of golf in a natural setting, instead of the artificial championship course found more often than not these days.

For a true country course, the Chatrium ground staff kept the 18 holes in excellent condition when we played there.

Practice facilities include an excellent driving range and two greens for chipping and putting. Possibly the best driving range in Thailand!

There are three halfway kiosks on the golf course offering food and cool drinks.

The modern clubhouse has first-class locker rooms, a well-equipped pro shop, plus a large restaurant and bar serving a wide selection of international and Thai cuisine. You can even have your breakfast here on the large outdoor terrace!

The adjacent resort is now under the management of the Chatrium Hospitality group and their comfortable 4-star 47-room hotel overlooks the course and mountains.

There is a relaxing swimming pool, free bikes for guests, and even a water bike to explore the lakes.

Soi Dao is a great choice for an overnight stay for those looking to get away from it all, enjoy a challenging round of golf or just to chill out.

There is an option to play two rounds, one on arrival and again on the next morning.

A very relaxing and magical experience and well worth the drive.