Situated just a 30-minute drive from Singapore, in Jalan Indah Utama, Bandar Putra, 81000 Kulai, Johor Darul Takzimis, is the 27-hole golf course at Palm Villa. A prestigious development by the Industrial Oxygen Incorporated Group, Palm Villa was built in 1998 and is designed by Rick Robbins.
The 27 holes are divided in to three sets, of nine holes, called the Palm Course, Putra Course and IOI Course. Each set of nine holes offers a different challenge and the Palm Course, which is 3,012 metres long, is renowned for its hilly layout, featuring plenty of doglegs and water hazards. There are a number of lovely ponds situated throughout the course, which add to the spectacle of the round but can also become dangerous for those who are less than accurate off the tee.
The Putra Course is the second longest set of nine at Palm Villa at a distance of 3,097 metres and is surrounded by a number of properties. This course is not as hilly as the Palm, so if a less undulating layout is what you prefer, the Putra Course may be the better choice out of the two. However, each hole on the Putra Course is narrow and therefore presents a different challenge, with rough present on both sides of the fairway.
The third set of nine is the IOI Course and this is longest course at Palm Villa, measuring at 3,253 metres. This is often referred to as being the most challenging course, featuring the longest hole and a number of doglegs, in addition to water hazards and well protected greens. The IOI Course really does have it all.
All three courses come complete with native palm trees and there is also a magnificent view of Gunung Pulai, a stunning tree-clad mountain in the distance.
The two story clubhouse comes complete with changing rooms, lockers, pro shop and terrace, in addition to hosting other activities, such as pool, tennis, badminton and table tennis. There is also an outdoor swimming pool, sauna and gym, meaning there is plenty to keep you occupied, both on and off the golf course.
In terms of dining, the Mercury Café is open all week, offering a mix of Malaysia and Western Cuisine, which can be enjoyed with a lovely view of the golf course below.
Palm Villa, due to its location, is very accessible for those living in Malaysia and those visiting from further afield. For a good variation of holes and distant views, it’s hard to beat.