Words Graham McKenzie
The name is somewhat baffling. Surely Khao Yai Toscana Golf Club is located in Thailand?
It is but, if you forgive the food analogies, what is set before you is a delight for the senses, a sumptuous course that tantalizes the golfer’s appetite for challenge and beauty.
Nestled in the heart of Khao Yai National Park, this golfing masterpiece is a modern fusion of Tuscan inspiration and Thai terrain.
From the moment you step onto the property, you’re greeted by an absolute delight for your eyes. The clubhouse is a work of art, its architecture mirroring the refined elegance of a Tuscan villa.
But it’s the course itself that truly serves up the dish of the day. Designed by the Capi chef duo of Bob McFarland and local man Chanat Ruangkritya, Toscana Valley is a gourmet experience for golfers of all levels.
The course is a mix of undulating fairways, elevation changes, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards that demand careful consideration.
The island greens, and tees, are the pièce de resistance, tempting golfers with the promise of birdies but threatening disaster with a single misstep.
The greens themselves are silky smooth, requiring a deft touch and precise putting. The course is manicured to an extremely high standard, and you know you’re playing on a quality track.
A buggy is necessary and, I would suggest, so is a caddie. The distances between tees are lengthy and the course is measured out in metres.
A good caddie will work out imperial yardage for you and will soon, based upon your skill level, be able to recommend club choice, putt lines and where to aim your drives.
The next challenge is being able to carry out the suggestions. It is genuinely a course that can be enjoyed by anybody from a rudimentary beginner up to a low single figure handicap player.
The icing on the cake is that the caddies display the natural Thai friendliness with helpful information about the course and the area. They also seem to have laser like vision for finding the ball after the odd stray shot that leaves the cut and prepared.
As you play your way through, you’ll encounter a delightful array of attractions as the course seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings including the most amazing bird and butterfly life.
The Khao Yai National Park provides a refreshing backdrop, adding a touch of spice to the golfing experience.
When it’s time to indulge in a different kind of feast, the post-golf options at Toscana Valley are simply divine. Pamper yourself with a relaxing massage at the spa or savour a delectable meal at the clubhouse restaurant.
The resort also offers a variety of accommodation options, so you can extend your journey and fully immerse yourself in the Khao Yai experience.
Green fees start at a very competitive £75 per round, rooms from £125 and spa treatments from £40.
Playing golf at Khao Yai Toscana Golf Club, whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a casual player, is a five-star experience that will leave you craving more.
Graham’s trip was organised by Tourism Authority of Thailand