Exploring Vietnam Golf and Culture
With a perfect blend of world class golf courses, breathtaking scenery, unparalleled history, and heart-warming hospitality, our Vietnam Tour was one we won’t soon forget. Da Nang has quickly earned its reputation as a premier destination for golfers, and we couldn’t wait to experience it all firsthand with our amazing clients.
We based ourselves at the Novotel Premier Han River, a beautiful hotel in the heart of Da Nang. With panoramic views of the Han River and the bustling city, the Novotel provided the ideal mix of modern comfort and convenience. The central location allowed us easy access to both the golf courses and the city’s attractions. After our hot and humid days on the greens, the hotel’s pool and rooftop bar became a favourite go-to spot for sunset cocktails while soaking in the views of the shimmering river and the twinkling city lights.
The welcome night held in the ballroom of the Novotel kicked off the start of the week’s festivities. Guests were treated to a traditional Vietnamese meal, accompanied by an incredible traditional dance and musical show presented by talented local performers.
A Golfer’s Dream
Five Premier Courses
Our golfing adventure began at the BRG Da Nang Golf Resort Norman Course, a stunning links-style course designed by Australian golfing legend, Greg Norman. With its rolling fairways and strategically placed bunkers, this course provided a challenging yet exhilarating start to our trip. The course’s natural beauty, combined with its thoughtful design, made for a memorable round that set the tone for the days to come.
From there, we ventured to Hoiana Shores Golf Club, a breathtaking seaside course that quickly became a favourite. From the moment the sprawling clubhouse came into view from the driveway, we knew we were in for a special treat. With its links-style layout, sweeping ocean views, and meticulously maintained greens, Hoiana Shores provided both a test of skill and a feast for the eyes. The course’s natural dunes and coastal winds added to the challenge, making every hole an exciting new adventure.
Next, we tackled the BRG Da Nang Golf Resort Nicklaus Course, a newer addition to the resort and a completely different challenge. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this course features wide fairways, expansive bunkers, and large, undulating greens. The contrast between the Norman and Nicklaus courses highlighted the versatility of the resort, offering a dynamic golfing experience that catered to different styles of play. We were lucky enough to play the course at possibly it’s best condition due to an Asian Tour event which starts today. Fun fact, for those that know him, our good friend Deyen ‘Digger’ Lawson finished second in this event last year.
Our fourth round took us to Montgomerie Links, a course that seamlessly blends traditional links golf with the beauty of the Vietnamese landscape. Designed by Colin Montgomerie, this course is known for its wide fairways, deep bunkers, and the occasional water hazard that keeps golfers on their toes. The serene surroundings and strategic design made Montgomerie Links a treat to play.
We concluded our golf at Ba Na Hills Golf Club, a course nestled in the foothills of the Ba Na Mountains. Designed by Luke Donald, this course offered a completely different experience, with its elevation changes, lush landscapes, and beautiful conditioning. The views from the course were nothing short of spectacular, making it a fitting finale to our golfing journey.
Cultural Encounters
A Glimpse into Vietnam’s Rich Heritage
Beyond the fairways, our trip was enriched by a series of cultural excursions that allowed us to connect with the history and traditions of central Vietnam.
A day trip to the Imperial City of Hue was a journey back in time to the days of Vietnam’s Nguyen Dynasty. As we explored the ancient citadel, with its grand palaces, temples, and tranquil gardens, we gained a deeper understanding of the country’s royal history. The intricate architecture and the stories of emperors and concubines brought the past to life in vivid detail.
Another unforgettable experience was our visit to Ba Na Hills, not just for its golf but also for the famous Golden Bridge and the French Village. Riding the cable car up the mountain, we were treated to panoramic views of the surrounding forests and valleys. The Golden Bridge, with its giant stone hands lifting the walkway above the clouds, was as surreal and awe-inspiring as we had imagined.
Our exploration continued with a visit to the ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Walking through the lantern-lit streets, we marvelled at the blend of Chinese, Japanese, and French influences in the town’s design. The Basket Boat Tour was another highlight, offering a closer look at the lives of local fishermen. After an exhibition by the locals on how they can control and use the basket boats for both work and play, we enjoyed a peaceful basket boat ride through the coconut groves, a unique way to experience the local waterways and the traditional way of life.
Savouring Da Nang
A Culinary Journey Through Local Flavours
No trip to Da Nang would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine, and our experience was a gastronomic delight. Vietnamese food is renowned for its fresh ingredients, bold flavours, and harmonious balance of taste, and Da Nang is no exception. From bustling street food stalls to upscale dining establishments, the city offered a rich variety of culinary experiences that perfectly complemented our days on the golf course.
Street food is readily available, with bustling markets and stalls offering authentic local delicacies that capture the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. For those seeking something more upscale, Da Nang also boasts a selection of refined restaurants where innovative chefs craft visually stunning dishes that elevate the dining experience.
With our tour now at an end, we leave with memories of exceptional rounds of golf on world-class courses. The breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, and rich cultural experiences made this trip unforgettable.
Thank you to everyone who joined us on our Vietnam Golf Tour, we hope you enjoyed the trip as much as we did!
For those that missed out this time, we will be heading back to Vietnam in August 2025, this time to Hanoi & Ha Long Bay Golf, in the countries North.
Images courtesy of Candice High Photography.
