Located about 50 minutes north of Hua Hin, you'll stumble across one of the area's best kept secrets, Sawan Resort and Golf Course. Opened in 1993, Isao Katsumata Design offers a fair test of golf with rolling fairways and tee options to challenge all golfers.

It's away from the busy Hua Hin golf courses and this is reflected in the peace and tranquility enjoyed by the course. Amidst rice fields and orchards, golfers are offered a lovely setting with breathtaking views of Phetchaburi Mountain and the Great Lake.



Originally just an 18-hole layout, the resort built nine more holes, and the North Course, the newer of three nine-hole loops, is equally enjoyable and has grown well, creating a well-defined course .

A special treat is the 21st or third hole of the North Course, its signature hole. A 217 yard par 3 course with elevated tees and views of the surrounding area.

But the best two loops are the original 18-hole layout. Tree-lined fairways, wide lakes and flat, smooth greens truly create a golf paradise that tests golfers' imagination and skills.

The par 5 2nd hole will challenge you from start to finish and is one of the best of the original 18 holes. At 535 yards, the hole isn't particularly long, but the water runs the full length of the hole on the left and you have to stay in the water. Longer shots might be doable in two, but they need to stick to the left side of the hole and flirt with the water.

The third test is another good accuracy test, this time testing direction and distance control. The dogleg right approaching 90º requires the most precise shots to provide a view of the green for your approach.

On the 2nd nine, the par-3 11th could ruin a good card. It's not that long at 160 yards from the back tee, but the water to the left of the green and behind requires accurate, well-placed shots to find the putting face.



But the best hole of the course is the 17th hole. A par 4 that requires nerves of steel and some skill is a blast. This is a par 4 hole nearly 500 yards from the back tee, and your shots will have to carry water to find a well-protected fairway. When entering the field, you have to look for the emerald green that is almost like an island.

After you've played, you'll face another challenge, the par 5. Most of the water in the fairway is on the right side of the fairway and there is water on the tees as well. Accuracy is tested again when your attempt ends with a birdie.

The facilities are basic but more than adequate, and the course is in good condition all year round, well worth the trip to play this quiet course.

Tee Time Bookings at Sawang Resort and Golf Club

It may be showing its age but if you would like to book a tee time at Sawang Resort and Golf Club and experience first-hand a slice of local golfing history then Thailandgolftour have excellent green fees and can help you to select the perfect tee time. Click here.