Lake Malaren Golf Club, Shanghai
Lake Malaren Golf Club is one of Shanghai’s top golf destinations, located in the Luodian New North Town of Baoshan District. This expansive 36-hole facility features two championship courses—the Masters Course and the North Forest Course—designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus. With its luxurious clubhouse, international tournament pedigree, and picturesque lake and forest scenery, Lake Malaren offers an elite golf experience within 30 minutes of downtown Shanghai.
Known as the home of the BMW Masters from 2012 to 2015, Lake Malaren has hosted some of the world’s greatest players, including Rory McIlroy, Henrik Stenson, and Martin Kaymer. It is a popular venue for business golf, Pro-Ams, and private leisure play. Whether you're seeking challenging competition or a relaxing round by the water, Lake Malaren delivers on every front.
Course Layout & Design
The club features two 18-hole, par-72 courses:
- Masters Course – A tournament-grade layout used for the BMW Masters. It features long fairways, water hazards, deep bunkers, and fast, undulating greens designed to test elite ball-striking and course management.
- North Forest Course – Slightly more forgiving than the Masters layout, it winds through wooded terrain and includes scenic views, gentler slopes, and wider landing zones, making it more accessible for mid-handicap players.
Combined, the two courses stretch over 14,120 meters (15,452 yards), offering a complete variety of hole styles, terrain, and wind conditions for year-round play.
Signature holes include:
- Hole 4 (Masters Course) – A demanding par-5 with water all along the right side and a sloping green that rewards bold approach shots.
- Hole 18 (North Forest) – A beautifully framed finishing par-4 with fairway bunkers and a split-level green overlooking the clubhouse.
World-Class Facilities & Amenities
Lake Malaren’s upscale facilities match its elite playing conditions. The architectural design of the clubhouse draws inspiration from traditional Scandinavian styles, reflecting Luodian’s Nordic town aesthetic.
- Grand clubhouse with multiple lounges and VIP rooms
- Luxury locker rooms and spa services
- On-site boutique hotel for stay-and-play options
- Professional driving range and short game area
- Golf academy with instruction programs and fitting services
Host to Prestigious Golf Events
Lake Malaren has hosted the BMW Masters (European Tour) and is frequently chosen for high-profile corporate tournaments and China PGA events. The Masters Course is kept in pristine condition to tournament standards throughout the year.
Scenic Beauty Meets Sustainability
The course is laid out along natural lakes and forests, with careful attention to preserving the local environment. Aesthetic landscaping, waterway integration, and eco-friendly turf care make Lake Malaren as environmentally conscious as it is visually stunning.
Why Choose Lake Malaren Golf Club?
- Two distinct 18-hole championship courses by Jack Nicklaus
- Host of the BMW Masters and top-tier international tournaments
- Luxury clubhouse, hotel, and spa facilities on-site
- Close to downtown Shanghai with seamless access
- Suited for business, competition, and scenic leisure rounds
Explore More About Golf in China
To learn more about golf culture, tips, and travel in China visit:
- China Golf Association – The official governing body of golf in China.
China National Tourism – Discover golf-friendly destinations across the country.
Lake Malaren stands as a testament to Shanghai’s rise as a golfing capital in Asia. With two Nicklaus-designed courses and a history of hosting the BMW Masters, this is a venue that meets international standards in every detail. Whether you’re chasing low scores or entertaining clients, the club’s thoughtful design, pristine maintenance, and event-ready infrastructure make it a standout destination.
The Masters Course is not for the faint-hearted—long holes, tight greens, and strategic hazards demand precision. Meanwhile, the North Forest Course provides a gentler experience without compromising quality. It’s a rare combination of accessibility and prestige, all within a 30-minute drive of central Shanghai.
The overall experience—from stepping into the Nordic-style clubhouse to teeing off beside reflective lakes—makes Lake Malaren a must-visit. Whether you’re a resident, a traveling golfer, or hosting an event, this club delivers a professional and rewarding round in every sense.