Siam Country Club, Old Course

The Siam Country Club Old Course is one of Thailand’s most renowned golf courses. Initially designed by Japanese architect Ichisuke Izumi, it was the country’s second golf course when it opened in 1970. At that time, the course was characterized by heavily contoured greens, large overhanging trees, and gentle bunkering.

In 2006-2007, the Old Course underwent a comprehensive renovation by American designers Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley. While maintaining the original routing, they modernized the course to meet international championship standards. Enhancements included curved fairways, new water hazards, high-lipped bunkers, and relocated greens. The addition of new greenside bunker complexes introduced the legendary undulating putting surfaces for which Siam is known.

Since its reopening in 2007, the course has hosted several international golf tournaments, including the US LPGA Honda Classic from 2010 onwards. In 2018, it was recognized as the 73rd best golf course in the world by USA Golf Digest magazine.

Set in the low hills a few kilometers from Pattaya, the 7,162-yard, par-72 Old Course features an abundance of mature trees, shrubs, and plants. Various flowering and fruit trees give the impression of an arboretum or orchard, especially when in season. The abundant ‘wildlife’ in the form of sculptured bushes and hedges is a unique feature of Siam Country Club.

The course has an out-and-back layout with many holes playing past a series of lakes and strategically placed creeks. Accurate driving is required to navigate the large fairway bunker complexes, and stray shots are punished by large trees flanking every fairway. The large, fast greens are well-maintained and extremely undulated, requiring the expertise of experienced caddies to read properly. The entire course is maintained at championship levels year-round.

A large golden Buddha overlooks the course, most visible from the uphill 9th hole. The Siam Old Course presents many dramatic challenges, particularly the last four holes, often referred to as Siam’s answer to Amen Corner. The 15th through 18th holes are arguably the best finishing holes of any Pattaya golf course, capable of humbling even the best rounds. The final hole, a par-5, tempts golfers to reach the green in two, but many end up with a bogey or worse as the hole becomes increasingly difficult closer to the green.

The original 1970s clubhouse has been extensively renovated to brighten the facilities. Positioned high above the course, it offers excellent views of the Old Course and the valley beyond. Permanently mounted binoculars allow for a closer view of the distant farms and other golf courses in the area.

The Siam Country Club Old Course is one of the best in Asia and should be on every golfer’s bucket list.