Loch Palm Golf Club

Loch Palm is described as "balancing challenge and fairness." The greens are maintained at playable speeds that are never superfast, thus encouraging visiting golfers to return.

Loch Palm Course

Swift changes in terrain provide great variety. Three new holes were added in 2004 as part of an upgrade that increased tee space, enlarged water features and improved landscaping, making the course even better. Water comes into play on 13 holes and there are 67 bunkers. Five kiosks dot the course. Varieties of Zoysia grass have been used on the fairways and greens, with Seashore Paspalum on the tees.

There are 300 memberships, with a few taken by corporations, and 250 caddies. Golf carts are available. Because of Loch Palm's popularity, booking a tee time is recommended. A much-anticipated second course is also being carved from the surrounding hills. Due to open in 2006, it will be around 7,000 yards and predictions are that it will make stunning use of outstanding natural features and be "unlike any other in Thailand."

Golf Course Summary

• Designed by Dr. Sukitti Klangwisai
• Opened November 1998
• 18 holes 72 par
• Total Yardage 6,434

Top Holes

Hole 14
Hole 14 takes golfers to giddy new levels of high anxiety. The new par three calls for a shot of 168 yards off the back tee to an island-style green. Because the tee is 60 feet above the putting surface, players need to chose their club and assess the wind with great care.

It's possible to stray right and recover but anything to the left or under or over ends with a splash. The hang-time is nerve-wracking.

Facilities

From Loch Palm's clubhouse, golfers can be seen driving balls into the lake from the aqua practice range -- and sometimes from the first tee as well.

The clubhouse is perhaps the most relaxed on the island, with panoramic views across Crystal Lake and beyond from the dining areas, a new pro shop, enlarged putting and chipping practice facilities, and a spa addition in the works.

Accommodation

Packages should be available with the alternative of local hotels or Loch Palm private residences. Kathu waterfall is not far away and the more adventurous may be enticed by bungee jumping, a shooting range or a water ski park, all within three kilometers.

Transport

Loch Palm has full taxi services available for golfers. Costs are in line with local rates. Standards and prices are set by the club.

Location

Virtually at the island's center, Loch Palm is well-placed for golfers coming from every direction. About 1400 stocky Oil Palms, planted along a route around a large lake and through hill country, give the course a character and charm of its own.