Hilltop Valley Golf Club

Hilltop Valley Golf Club Description:
(mountainous layout at elevation managed by IMG)
Hilltop Valley Golf club is a 27-hole IMG designed golf course offering a unique challenge amidst the breathtaking scenery of a mountain range with views of hills, valley, and the Da River. The golf course is located about 60 kilometers west of Hanoi and is accessible by paved roads in less than 2 hours. The Hilltop Valley project is part of the multinational Geleximco conglomerate. The first 18-holes opened for play in 2019.

The site differs from most other Vietnam golf courses as it has severe elevation changes from one point to another. With its varied terrain, plenty of green space, and beautiful views, it makes for a unique golf course and many memorable holes. The Paspalum grassed course’s lush green color contrasts with the white sand bunkers and red rocky outcrops. As the course matures, it will develop a good reputation among Vietnam golf courses as a pleasant and well-maintained resort layout. Mini-Verde Bermuda grass greens are gently undulated and kept at reasonable playing speeds.

The front nine holes play mostly valleys have gentle and have soft contours that reflect errant shots towards the fairway centers. These holes have only minor bunker complexes and plan for many pars’ with a few birdies. The back nine holes play along the ridgeline of the mountains.

The par-five third hole is a challenging hole, with a winding river that runs through the valley being a real feature of this hole. The river comes into play off the tee down the left side, and then it must be crossed twice before arriving at the green. A golfer’s second shot offers a choice of a short hit to a small section of the fairway that leaves a close third to the green, or a much longer shot that must carry the winding river twice to leave a short pitch to the green from a better angle.

Some of the most challenging holes include the 13th and 14th. The former is a 200-yard par-3 over a ravine to water surrounded green. Anything but an entirely accurate shot will end up wet or lost. The next hole is equally challenging as the tee shot plays down to the blind fairway.

Holes 19-27 have even more severe elevation change, which offers magnificent views of the surrounding landscape.

The caddies are an excellent source of advice at Hilltop Valley. Many shots are like hitting into the abyss with the only prayer for a good result.

Here is a local tip. Save stamina for the last few holes. They climb up and down the slopes at the end of the round can take a lot of energy.

The modern clubhouse is well laid out and has beautiful views of the 18th green. Posh lockers, a local restaurant, and a basic pro-shop cater to most golfers’ needs. In addition to the golf courses, there will be a new city with many different sports, entertainment and commercial centers, hotels, villas, and resorts. Geleximco’s objective to create an integrated golf community and an urban area outside Hanoi.