Our next stop was at the Van Tri Golf Club, the first exclusively private golf estate in northern Vietnam. As expected from a private club, we were quickly greeted by staff on arrival -- processed and prepared for play. Management and staff service throughout our time at Van Tri was exceptional.
Designed by renowned architect, Peter Rousseau the course provides an enjoyable, yet challenging round for golfers of all capabilities. The course is visually stunning as it blends natural elements of water, sand, grass and trees to provide a unique character to each individual hole.
The 18-hole course plays 6,700 yards from the blue tees, but stretches to over 7,200 yards from the championship tees. The well maintained course is laid out over relatively flat terrain, presenting a challenge as golfers make their way through the predominantly pine-lined holes.
The shaping and conditioning of the Van Tri course is considered to be one of the best in the north. The unique character of each hole requires golfers to carefully consider multiple lines of attack and forced carries on some holes. Generous fairways and lay-up areas are available on some holes, though risks taken by long hitters may be rewarded.
A few holes do stand out. The 4th hole is still one of the best par-3s in the the country. The 174-yard hole (blue tees) is in clear view of the many onlookers in the clubhouse, adding a bit more challenge to the difficult tee-shot.
At 172-yards, the 16th hole is yet another challenging par-3. Though not excessively long, the island green tends to impact the golfer’s club selection. In an effort to carry the water in front of the green, golfers should be careful not to hit over the green where there are bunkers and more water.
The closing hole, number 18 is a challenge not in length (354 yards), but due to the location of water on the left and four bunkers on the right. One of the easier holes to birdie, but also an easy bogey or double for those who have an wayward shot in either direction. This was one of several holes my caddie corrected my club selection, and her selection kept me in-play.
The golf course has received numerous awards, as the most beautifully designed golf course in Vietnam and the most environmentally friendly. In 2011, Van Tri was the first golf course in the country be awarded a certificate for environmental management.
After the round, we made our way back to the modern clubhouse and locker-rooms. Van Tri’s clubhouse facilities were designed by Graham Taylor Designs who took great care in ensuring it matched the quality of the club’s world-class golf course.
Enjoying a nice meal with our playing partners and the club’s management team, we each expressed that we were very pleased with our time at Van Tri. I recommend this course for those who have an opportunity to play it.
Further information:
Van Tri Golf Club
Kim No Commune
Dong Anh District, Hanoi
Tel: +84 4 3958 3080
website: www.vantrigolf.com.vn
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