[INSPECT THE SOUTHERN GOLF] Day 14: THE BLUFFS GRAND HO TRAM - The White Shark's Signature Links Course  02:40, 04/08/2026

Leaving Phu Quoc behind, the Vietnam Golf & Leisure Awards 2026 Judging Panel continued its survey journey across Southern Vietnam with a visit to The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram. Here, golfing legend Greg Norman left his unmistakable signature by preserving and embracing the site's natural contours, coastal winds and unspoiled landscape rather than reshaping them.

From the moment they arrived at the clubhouse, the judges appreciated the seamless flow of the overall design. The reception area, pro shop, restaurant and the transition onto the golf course are naturally connected, gradually revealing the rolling sand dunes beyond. Rather than dominating the landscape, every element of the facility serves to guide golfers smoothly into the course itself.

Once on the course, the natural dunes, native grasses, rolling slopes and pockets of preserved woodland become integral parts of the design. Each hole presents a distinct routing, elevation change and visual perspective, encouraging players to constantly adapt while discovering scenery that feels unique from one hole to the next.

One of the most striking aspects of the course is its ever-changing panorama. Depending on where players stand, the view shifts from the expansive coastline to forested hillsides or sweeping sand dunes. This constant change makes the 18-hole journey feel as much like an exploration of the landscape as a round of golf.

Among all the holes, the par-4 15th left the strongest impression on many members of the judging panel. Sitting approximately 50 metres above sea level, it offers an expansive view across the golf course, the surrounding forest and the Ho Tram coastline. Beyond its spectacular scenery, the hole is also heavily influenced by changing wind conditions, requiring thoughtful club selection and precise course management.

At The Bluffs, the wind is far more than a weather condition, it is an essential design element. A change in wind direction can completely alter strategy, forcing golfers to rethink club selection and shot execution. As a result, the same hole can present a very different challenge depending on the conditions.

Beyond the course design, the judging panel also noted the consistently high maintenance standards. The greens are fast and true, providing a smooth yet demanding putting experience, while the fairways, roughs and bunkers are maintained to a consistently high standard, reflecting the character of a traditional seaside links course.

The overall experience is further enhanced by a knowledgeable and professional caddie team. Their understanding of the course layout, wind conditions and hole strategies provides valuable guidance, particularly when golfers are faced with constantly changing playing conditions.

According to Mr. Oh Sang Jun, a member of the International Judging Panel: "The Bluffs Ho Tram makes excellent use of its natural terrain to create distinctive and memorable golf holes. However, the dramatic elevation changes also result in relatively long transitions between certain holes, particularly between Holes 3 and 4, Holes 14 and 15, and the walk to the 10th tee, where there is still room to further enhance the player experience. Meanwhile, the clubhouse meets international standards with outstanding design, functionality and service, while the course conditioning is maintained at a very high level. The food and beverage offerings are excellent, supported by a professional, attentive and well-trained staff."

The survey concluded with the judging panel recognising The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram as a golf course that allows its natural setting to define the playing experience. Rather than relying on artificial challenges, the course draws its character from the landforms, coastal winds and surrounding landscape, elements that remain in golfers' memories long after the scorecard is put away.

Below are highlights from the Judging Panel's visit to The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram on 22 July 2026.