Bali National GC is coveniently located in the heart of the action in Nusa Dua, Bali
There is no shortage of interesting places to stay, or dining and shopping options around Nusa Dua!
Originally known as Bali Golf & Country Club when it opened in 1991, the course was designed by Nelson Howarth. The same firm returned to completely refurbish the course which again opened it's doors in March 2014.
The course now features new paspulum turf, and many holes have been lengthened to championship distances. Each nine has been routed through disctinctly different terrain. The front nine plays up through the hills and through lush tropical and jungle fauna. Elaborate stone walls terrace the sides of fairways and tees, and the stark white splash bunkering stands out against the darker green jungle vegetation.
At times the slopes are terraced to give the impression of Balinese paddy fields.
It is all visually compelling, and photographs up very well.
In contrast the back nine lacks any significant elevation change, but instead makes its way through, around, and over a series of lakes, with some attractive waste bunkering and the occasional coconut tree to avoid as well
Overall the course is maintained to a very high standard, and looks a million dollars!
The service levels with caddies and proshop was also exemplary.
Bali National is now a real championship course, and is both strategic, and penal in design.
There are many impressive holes- the par 3 17th will be perhaps the most talked about hole as it is an island green reminscent of Sawgrass. But I loved the short par 4 18th hole with lake on the left and creek in front of the green. The short par 4 fifth hole with a narrow elevated green and water front and back was also exciting to play.
Overall I was very impressed with Bali National and rate it a Travelling Golfer 'must play'
Accommodation:
The hardest thing about finding accommodation near the course is choosing from a plethora of options available in Nusa Dua and nearby. The Travelling Golfer can make recommendations to suit your budget and lifestyle.
Other courses in Bali worth considering:
Nirwana Bali ( a Travelling Golfer 'must play' )
New Kuta GC
Bali Handara GC
Peter Wood
The Travelling Golfer
May 2015