Tucked into the lush foothills roughly 25 minutes west of Da Nang city centre, Ba Na Hills Golf Club occupies a stunning natural setting near the base of the famous Bana Hills cable car. As the first course in Asia designed by Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald, and operated under IMG management, this is a genuinely significant addition to Vietnam’s growing golf landscape.

A Course Shaped by the Land

The layout spreads across a series of mountain valleys, making full use of the dramatic natural topography that defines the region. Elevation changes are substantial throughout the round, and the course weaves around mature hardwood trees and winding streams that come into play on several holes. From the elevated tees and greens, golfers are treated to sweeping views across the valley floors below.

Stretching to 7,858 yards from the tips, the par-72 design manages to be both demanding and accessible. The rolling terrain naturally produces uneven lies and varied shot requirements, meaning no two holes feel the same and every club in the bag gets a workout across the 18 holes.

Two Distinct Nines

The front nine offers a more composed parkland experience, with pine forests framing the fairways and a relatively traditional flow from hole to hole. The back nine is where the course reveals its more adventurous character, climbing and descending the surrounding hills with blind tee shots, doglegs, and some genuinely dramatic scenery.

Standout holes include the back-to-back par-5s at the 4th and 5th. The 4th is reachable in two for the big hitters, while the 5th demands a carry over water before requiring two well-struck long irons or hybrids to find a well-guarded green in regulation. The 10th is a straightforward par-4 that plays uphill to one of the highest points on the property, offering a memorable view from the green. The downhill par-3 12th is arguably the most photogenic hole on the course.

Design Details Worth Noting

Bunkering throughout the course has a distinctive character, with long rough grass framing the edges and faces of each hazard. The sand itself is only partially visible from the tee or fairway, adding a layer of visual complexity to approach shots. Greens are angled to the fairways and feature subtle undulation, with a good range of pin positions that keep the short game interesting.

Facilities and Practicalities

The clubhouse is a modern, well-appointed space with a grass driving range, dedicated practice areas, and a well-stocked pro shop. The restaurant looks out over the course and serves a broad menu, though the Vietnamese dishes are the clear highlight. All 18 holes are equipped with floodlighting, which extends playing options for those with later tee times, though it does somewhat interrupt the otherwise natural ambience of the setting.

Operating under IMG’s international management standards, Ba Na Hills Golf Club delivers a consistently polished experience that matches the quality of the course itself.