[INSPECT THE NORTHERN GOLF] Day 5: CHILINH GOLF - Returning to the Cradle of Vietnamese Golf  09:16, 16/07/2026

Located approximately 90 minutes from Hanoi, ChiLinh Golf sits in a picturesque valley surrounded by rolling hills and natural lakes. As one of Northern Vietnam's earliest golf courses, opening shortly after King's Island, it has witnessed the formative years of Vietnamese golf while becoming a favorite destination for generations of domestic and international golfers.

ChiLinh Golf features a 27-hole layout divided into three distinctive nine-hole courses: Mountain, Lake, and Valley. The design preserves the site's natural hillsides, valleys, lakes, and streams, creating a routing that blends seamlessly with the landscape while presenting golfers with a wide variety of strategic challenges.

Fairways flow naturally along the hillsides, while strategically positioned bunkers and undulating greens demand precision and thoughtful course management. The Lake and Valley courses, in particular, make excellent use of the property's natural water features, bringing water hazards into play on the majority of holes. Several holes challenge golfers to choose between a conservative route and a bold carry over water in pursuit of a better scoring opportunity.

Among ChiLinh Golf's signature holes, the par-4 7B stands out as one of the most memorable. It was recognized as the "Best Par-4 in Vietnam 2019" at the Vietnam Golf & Leisure Awards. Stretching nearly 490 yards from the back tees, the hole features an iconic bridge crossing the lake and a heavily contoured green, providing a comprehensive test of driving distance, ball control, and approach-shot strategy. It remains one of the course's defining holes and is remembered long after the round is complete.

Beyond its design, ChiLinh Golf also impressed the judging panel with its consistently high maintenance standards. The turf is meticulously maintained, with uniform fairways and reliable greens contributing to a quality playing experience. Supported by an experienced team of caddies and marshals who possess in-depth knowledge of every hole, golfers receive attentive and professional service throughout their round.

Ms. Vu Van Yen, a member of the Vietnam Golf & Leisure Awards judging panel, shared her thoughts: "ChiLinh Golf is one of the courses that laid the foundation for golf in Northern Vietnam. What impressed me most is not only how well the course has been maintained over the years, but also its contribution to developing generations of golf professionals, from caddies to course managers, many of whom now hold key positions at golf clubs across the country. That is a truly unique legacy that few golf courses can claim."

ChiLinh Golf's facilities further enhance the overall experience. The clubhouse restaurant offers an extensive selection of Asian and Western cuisine alongside local specialties prepared with fresh regional ingredients, providing golfers with an enjoyable dining experience after their round. According to the judging panel, the planned renovation of the clubhouse and hotel will further strengthen ChiLinh Golf's appeal as both a golf and leisure destination in Northern Vietnam.

Concluding the fifth day of the inspection tour, ChiLinh Golf left a lasting impression through its blend of historical significance and enduring quality. Beyond being home to one of Vietnam's classic golf course designs, it continues to preserve an important chapter in the country's golfing history while reaffirming its reputation as a destination worthy of every golfer's bucket list.

Take a look back at some memorable moments from the judging panel's visit to ChiLinh Golf on July 13, 2026.