The Lake Course of Kunming Spring City Golf & Lake Resort

Overview

The Lake Course at Kunming Spring City Golf & Lake Resort, designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones Jr., is widely considered one of his best golf course designs in Asia. Located in a picturesque and sparsely populated area just 40 minutes from Kunming city, the course takes full advantage of the natural topography, offering a dramatic yet natural golfing experience. At an elevation of 2,100 meters, the cooler climate of Spring City makes it a perfect golfing destination, especially during the hot summer months in Asia.

Design Philosophy

The Blending of Three Key Styles

Trent Jones Jr. is known for his design philosophy that blends three essential styles: strategic, penal, and heroic. While many of his courses are known for their dramatic features, the Lake Course stands out for not relying too heavily on artificial features. It integrates seamlessly with the natural landscape, utilizing the land’s elevation changes, water features, and surrounding scenery to create a dynamic and engaging golfing experience. The design is a perfect balance between challenge and natural beauty.

A Natural Approach to Golf Course Design

Unlike some of Trent Jones Jr.’s other courses, which can feel heavily engineered, the Lake Course at Spring City uses the land’s natural elevation and water features to great effect. The course is a testament to his ability to blend beauty with strategic difficulty. The natural features of the land, including rolling hills, lakes, and dense foliage, are not just aesthetically pleasing but are also incorporated into the course layout to enhance its challenge and appeal.

The Course Layout

Dramatic Elevation and Strategic Design

One of the most distinctive features of the Lake Course is its 150-foot drop from the clubhouse to the 8th green, which lies along the shore of a scenic lake. This dramatic change in elevation offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and adds an element of strategy and risk to the game. The course’s design also makes use of significant camber and elevation shifts, making each hole unique and challenging.

Every tee shot on the course, except for the 13th, requires careful strategy and precise execution. The Lake Course is not just a test of golfing skill but also a chance to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

The Necessity of Golf Buggies

Due to the course’s steep terrain and challenging elevation changes, golf buggies are essential for players navigating the layout. While some might see this as a disadvantage, it actually adds to the course’s exclusivity and ensures that golfers can fully appreciate the stunning views without being overly fatigued by the terrain.

Location and Climate

Spring City’s Unique Setting

The Spring City Golf & Lake Resort is located in a remote yet visually stunning area, surrounded by mountainous landscapes and tranquil lakes. This region is sparsely populated, offering peace and seclusion that enhances the overall golfing experience. Set at an elevation of 2,100 meters above sea level, the resort enjoys cooler temperatures throughout the year, providing a welcome respite from the extreme summer heat experienced in much of Asia.

Ideal Golfing Conditions

With its temperate climate and high altitude, Spring City offers golfers a pleasant experience year-round. The cooler weather makes it a sought-after destination, especially during the hot summer months, ensuring that players can enjoy the course’s challenging layout without the discomfort of heat.

The Golfing Experience

A Tough Yet Rewarding Challenge

The Lake Course is considered one of the most demanding golf courses in Asia. Every hole on the course requires precision and strategy, and no hole can be described as easy. The course’s design presents golfers with an engaging challenge, whether they are teeing off from the elevated tee boxes or navigating the natural hazards that are seamlessly integrated into the layout.

Stunning Views and Natural Beauty

Beyond its strategic challenges, the Lake Course offers panoramic views of the surrounding lakes, mountains, and lush greenery, creating an unforgettable golfing environment. As players make their way through the course, they are treated not only to a test of skill but also to a feast for the eyes.

The Best Golfing Experience in China

With its exacting design, challenging layout, and unbeatable scenery, the Lake Course is regarded as one of the best golfing experiences in China. The course’s bentgrass greens, immaculate landscaping, and natural beauty combine to create a truly unique and rewarding golfing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking for a challenge or a beginner eager to enjoy the stunning environment, the Lake Course offers something for every player.

Conclusion

A Golfer’s Paradise

The Lake Course at Kunming Spring City Golf & Lake Resort is more than just a golf course; it’s an experience. From the dramatic elevation changes to the stunning views and challenging design, this course offers a golfing adventure like no other. Its natural beauty, strategic layout, and temperate climate make it one of Asia’s finest golf courses.

Why Spring City is a Golfing Destination

As Robert Trent Jones Jr. himself said, Spring City is destined to become one of the greatest golf resorts in the Asia Pacific region. The Lake Course is a shining example of what makes this resort stand out: a balance of natural beauty, challenging play, and world-class design. It’s no wonder that Spring City is recognized as a top-tier destination for golf lovers around the world.

“Spring City, destined to be one of the greatest golf resorts in the Asia Pacific region, offers a golfing experience that capitalises on the existing features of the property while taking advantage of the other elements, such as the dramatic view changes in elevation and expansive nature of the site.”
— Robert Trent Jones Jr.