The Alpine Golf Resort Chiang Mai (formerly Chiang Mai Lamphun Golf Club) comprises some 450 rai of land that nestles in a valley between the mountain ranges in the heart of the San Kampaeng natural forests. It is undoubtedly one of the golf courses in Chiang Mai that boast of the best in natural beauty. The design of the course, by world-famous golf course designer Mr Ron M Garl, was inspired by the magnificent hills in its horizon. No matter where you are on the course, you are sure to enjoy nature at her best: exquisite lush green from the nearby forests – which comprise a rich assembly of trees such as the golden teakwood, the Dipterocarpus Alatus and many more other species.

In planning and constructing the Alpine Chiang Mai golf course, the designer, Ron Garl, has maintained the same standards as his other award winning jewels including the TPC at Prestansia and Palm Beach Polo Club both in Florida, and the Alpine sister golf course in Bangkok. The 18-hole, Chiang Mai course at 7,541 yards in length from the black tees will challenge the serious player, although anyone who enjoys golfing in the fresh country air, close to nature, will find it equally pleasant from either the white or blue tee boxes.

The most memorable holes include the forth hole, the longest par 5 on the course and one of the longest in Thailand at 652 yards. The fifth, a 444 yard par 4 with well guarded green and where par would be a good score. On the seventh golfers take note of the interesting spirit house near the tee. The stream runs along side and across this hole from green to tee makes it one of the most challenging holes on the course. The boldest, who have prayed to the spirits, may attempt to carry the whole length of the water and going for the green in two. However, in reality on this exciting hole anything an eagle to a triple bogey can result.

The island fairway on the par 4 ninth hole is both beautiful and difficult. Playing over water twice and almost directly into the prevailing wind, makes this hole a challenging ending to the front nine. The eleventh hole, a 524 yard par 4 (yes par 4!), is without doubt the most difficult on the golf course. Doglegging left with water down the entire left side, this hole plays almost like a par 5.

The second hole with an island green is number 15, a short 169 yard par 3. This is the most intimidating looking hole on the course. While only a short iron for most, the sight of the green surrounded by water makes most players tremble. The island looks very small, but it is nearly 50 yards wide which is a large target for a shot of this length.