Maejo Golf Club is one of our favourite courses around Chiang Mai for golfers who enjoy strategic golf, beautiful scenery and a layout that feels completely at home in its surroundings. Located in San Sai, around 20–25 minutes north of central Chiang Mai, the course winds through mature fruit orchards with views towards Doi Suthep and the surrounding mountains.

Designed by Thai golf architect Seni Thirawat and opened in 2004, Maejo is an 18-hole, par-72 course measuring 6,730 yards from the back tees. It is not the longest championship course in northern Thailand, but that is part of what makes it so enjoyable. Rather than relying on sheer length, the course asks you to think carefully about positioning, angles and where you want to leave your next shot.

The fairways run between mature longan, lychee, pomelo, mango and other tropical fruit trees, giving Maejo a character that is very different from many modern resort courses. Several holes feature doglegs or tighter landing areas, so there are plenty of occasions when keeping the driver in the bag is the sensible choice. Elevated tees also appear throughout the round, providing some brilliant views while adding another element to club selection.

We particularly like the greens at Maejo. They are large enough to hit, but subtle slopes mean simply finding the putting surface does not guarantee an easy par. Leaving yourself above the hole or on the wrong section of a green can quickly turn a straightforward-looking approach into a difficult two-putt.

The 15th is one of the standout holes and a great example of the course's orchard setting. This demanding par 4 plays between rows of fruit trees, putting a real premium on accuracy from the tee. By this point in the round, you quickly appreciate why Maejo rewards golfers who have managed their game rather than simply attacked every hole.

Practice facilities include a driving range along with putting, chipping and pitching areas, giving you plenty of opportunity to warm up before heading onto the course. The clubhouse provides everything you need afterwards, including changing facilities, a Pro Shop and restaurant.

Mae Jo Golf Resort & Spa is also located on site, making it possible to turn your round into a relaxed stay-and-play break. Alternatively, its convenient location makes Maejo easy to include alongside the other leading courses around Chiang Mai.

For golfers wanting a scenic course with plenty of personality and a strong emphasis on accuracy and course management, Maejo Golf Club is well worth adding to a northern Thailand itinerary. Speak to our Golf Travel Experts at Hashtag Golf Travel and we can include Maejo within a tailor-made Chiang Mai golf holiday.