Phoenix Golf Resort

Phoenix Golf Resort in Hanoi is set in a truly spectacular location, surrounded by limestone hills and mountains, and offers a 54-hole complex with three courses: Phoenix, Dragon, and Champion. Despite the breathtaking scenery, inconsistent service and maintenance often detract from the experience.

Located about an hour outside Hanoi, each course has its own unique challenges. The Champion Course is a more open, links-style course, while Phoenix and Dragon courses navigate hilly terrain. The Champion Course features some standout holes, including the 5th, a slight dogleg par 4 with a stream crossing the fairway 160 yards from the green, which is protected by three large bunkers. The 9th is a scenic par 3, requiring a carry over a water hazard and a beach bunker to reach a narrow green. Another notable hole is the 14th, where the fairway is split by a water hazard, giving players a choice between a riskier shot over the lake or a safer route that requires a tricky approach to the green.

The Dragon Course is considered the most spectacular, with dramatic front-nine holes that offer stunning scenery. This course is filled with beautifully designed and challenging holes. One of the highlights is the par 5, 4th hole, where a stream runs alongside the tee boxes, crosses the fairway, and continues along the right side of the green, creating three island-like fairways. The 10th hole is a medium-length par 3 that requires a tee shot over a water hazard to a green protected by a deep bunker.

The Phoenix Course, designed by Ronald Fream, skillfully uses the natural contours of the land and winds through the limestone mountains. Although the course layouts are impressive, the overall experience is marred by poor maintenance and indifferent service, which can detract from the enjoyment of the day.

The resort's massive clubhouse offers all the usual facilities, but again, the lack of proper upkeep and service quality can be disappointing. Despite these issues, Phoenix Golf Resort remains a popular destination, especially among Korean golfers. With three courses available, securing a tee time is usually not a problem, but players may have to endure a slower pace of play.