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. Click
here to see the location map
Rating
|
 |
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. Nevertheless, there
are plenty of testing carries across water and close encounters
with
impenetrable jungle. Placed neatly within a cordon of hills, the
flight of most shots can be easily tracked through the air against
a background of forest or jungle.
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.
On the 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."
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.
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.
|
| |
Course Details
