Kristal Golf Resort | Sports and Recreations

Set amidst peace and serenity, Kristal Golf Resort boasts as one of the best golf courses in the Northern region. It was designed by Japanese legendary pro Hideyo Sugimoto (Big Sugi), the winner of Malaysian Open 1973. Located on 287 acres of lush greenery, our 18-hole international excellent golf course is crafted according to the natural flow and undulations of a scenic valley.

Surrounded by mist-shrouded mountains, it is located in Sungai Bakap, just 24km from the Prai end of Penang Bridge, enabling convenient accessibility. A motor cruise along the North-South Highway enables visitors to reach this exclusive resort within 20 minutes from the bridge.

Formerly a hilly rubber and oil palm plantation, it is entwined within nature's beauty that grants it tranquility, a much sought-after luxury by golfers. Unsurprisingly, Kristal was voted one of the top ten golf courses in Malaysia by Golf Malaysia in 1997 and subsequently in 1999.

Kristal's par 72 - 7028 yard layout is a work of art. While most tee boxes offer a visual guide to the target and hazard ahead, mature palm and rubber trees combined with sharp slopes narrow the landing areas considerably. Powder fine bunkers are strategically placed to trap errant shots, while ponds, streams and creeks bring ambience and drama to play.

While the first few holes are rather friendly, golfers are warned of the challenges ahead, in particular the water-lined stretch from hole-14 to 17 - Kristal's answer to Pebble Beach's Amen Corner.

The key to unlocking the secrets to par better at Kristal is to hit straight, not long, as off-line shots could wind up out of bounds, unplayable or in dense vegetation. Find the fairways from the tee and your reward will be an easy second from exquisite Tiftway turfing. Much credit must go to Kristal's maintenance team for its well-kept fairways and Tifway greens. In addition to the natural beauty, Japanese-influence landscaping enhances the scenic value of Kristal.

The drink but between the 5th and 12th holes straddles a gurgling boulder-strewn creek, providing visual as well as liquid refreshment for tired golfers.

Not forgetting the Golfer's Clubhouse which provides an array of services from superb F&B outlets serving Oriental, Western and Japanese cuisine to changing rooms, Japanese O'Furo baths, a swimming pool with jacuzzi and water slides plus comprehensive sports and recreational facilities.

Kristal's natural features contribute a challenging golfing experience, which one will not forget. Stylish, luxurious and superbly planned, Kristal Golf Resort is indeed a golfer's paradise as it presents a distinctive golf avenue with luxurious recreational amenities.

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