Hilltop Valley Golf Club is 60 kilometres to the west of Hanoi. This is a 27 hole golf course is situated between hills, valleys, and the Da River within a spectacular mountain range that provides tremendous views from the golf course. Established in 2019, this is one of the latest additions to the exciting portfolio of golf courses in Vietnam and has been designed by IMG.
IMG are regarded as being one of the world's most prominent golf course design companies and it is easy to see why when playing around at Hilltop Valley Golf Club. As is the case with many modern golf course developments, water plays a significant role throughout the round and this is evident on the 1st hole, which is a par-4. The tee shot must be played to a fairway which is protected by two bunkers to the left and water which runs up the full length of the fairway and behind the green.
This is a small indicator of what is to come and there is no let up on the water hazards on the par-3 2nd hole. From the tee the ball must be played over a body of water to a green which is protected by two large bunkers. Water is again in play on the 3rd hole and this par-5 requires a good strategic approach to reach the green in regulation without seeing the ball land in trouble. The tee shot must be hit over water to the first section of fairway. From here, there is another section of fairway which is almost an island due to the water which surrounds it and a third part of the fairway which is home to the green.
You will struggle to find a more thrilling and testing opening three holes of golf anyway in Vietnam. You cannot afford to play your way into the round at Hilltop Valley Golf Club or you will be in trouble. You must be on your game from the 1st tee shot and that’s a challenge in itself.
In addition to the water and bunkers, Hilltop Valley Golf Club features many changes in undulation throughout the round. Look out for the par-3 13th hole which must be played over a ravine to a green which is protected by water. For those wanting to drink in the tremendous views from the golf course, holes 19 to 27 are the ones to play as these provide superb views of the surrounding landscape.
The clubhouse includes a pro shop and restaurant which offers local cuisine plus there is a driving range. This may be a new addition to the golfing map of Hanoi and Vietnam but Hilltop Valley Golf Club looks set to become one of the best golf courses in the country.