Flora Ville Golf & Country Club

Flora Ville Golf & Country Club, originally named Chuan Cheun and designed by Nick Faldo in 1998, is a rare gem among Bangkok's golf courses. Nestled in Pathum Thani province, just north of the city, this course is situated within a spacious housing estate, offering a tranquil golfing haven. Distinguished by its majestic trees, open marsh areas, and abundant wildlife, Flora Ville provides a unique natural golfing experience.

This woodland course at Flora Ville is a delight for golfers of all skill levels. Its well-maintained fairways, often flanked by imposing trees or water hazards, grace most of the holes. Precision off the tee is crucial as many holes feature doglegs.

The greens pose the primary challenge at Flora Ville. They are relatively small and have hard surfaces, making hitting them in regulation a rarity. A confident short game becomes essential to save par, as getting up and down can be demanding. The fast green speeds emphasize the importance of distance control on putts. However, the greens' saving grace is their lack of significant undulations, offering mostly straight putts.

One of the standout holes at Flora Ville is the 6th, a 173-yard par-3. Prevailing winds can significantly impact club selection, adding to the challenge. Avoiding the water in front and the deep bunkers on the right and over the green is crucial to secure a good score.

The 12th hole, a short par 5, presents its own set of challenges. A lake running the entire length of the right side of the fairway demands precision off the tee. The small green, protected by water on the left, adds complexity to the approach.

Flora Ville's signature hole is the 18th, a lengthy par 5 that requires a well-placed drive to a narrow landing area on the right. The hole then bends left, necessitating two precise shots to avoid bunkers on both sides of the fairway. Water guarding the green poses another test, making a layup an attractive option for a chance to save par with a close chip and one putt.

The clubhouse and facilities underwent reconstruction and reopening in 2018. The Thai restaurant is renowned for its cuisine, offering everything from golfer snacks to royal dishes. Flora Ville Golf & Country Club promises an enjoyable day of golf in Bangkok and is recognized as one of the best-value courses in Thailand.