The Legends Golf and Country Resort (LGCR) is a golf course that blends world-class course design, premium facilities, and the lush beauty of tropical Malaysia. With layouts crafted by the greats Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, the resort delivers a round that’s challenging, scenic, and undeniably upscale.
While there’s periodic criticism around course maintenance and on-site lodging, the architectural pedigree and sweeping vistas still position LGCR among Johor’s most compelling golf destinations. A flexible spread of green fees also keeps it approachable for both amateurs and seasoned players.
If you’re after an authentic golf experience with a thread of history and elegance, The Legends Golf and Country Resort belongs on your Southeast Asia short list. Here’s GoGolf full review.
The Legends Golf and Country Resort (LGCR) Courses by Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer
The Legends Golf and Country Resort (LGCR) is more than a golf venue—it’s a statement of prestige and commitment to the game in Johor, Malaysia. Its distinction comes from a design lineage featuring three titans of golf architecture: Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Gary Player. Beyond being icons inside the ropes, these names reshaped modern course design with identifiable strategic signatures.
In April 1997, the first 9 holes opened, marking LGCR’s entry onto the international stage. A few months later, on 1 July 1997, the full 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Course debuted for members. The Arnold Palmer Course followed with an additional 9 holes on 19 April 2009, further enriching the resort’s playing options. The Gary Player 9 has yet to be realized.
The Nicklaus and Palmer blueprints shine on every hole. Nicklaus leans into the “challenging yet fair” philosophy—rewarding smart lines and confident execution for pros while still engaging for club golfers. Palmer amplifies natural contours, streams, and tropical elements to create a routing that feels seamlessly integrated with the environment.
It’s no surprise many golfers refer to LGCR as a “dream course.” Pair international-caliber design with premium facilities and Malaysia’s tropical drama and you’ll see why it ranks among the best in Southeast Asia—and why the presence of three legends elevates LGCR’s historic cachet.
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What Makes LGCR Unique
LGCR’s standout trait is the variety of shot values baked into each hole, testing both technique and decision-making. The 18-hole, par-72 Jack Nicklaus Course stretches 6,710 meters and has earned a string of accolades, including “The Number One Golf Course in Johor” (1998, 1999, 2001) by The Business Times, and a top ranking from the Organisation of Asian Amateur Golfers (OAAG) in 2002/2003.
The Nicklaus Course offers rich diversity: some holes trace lake edges, others climb toward hills or thread through trees with strategically positioned hazards. Par-5s and even a par-6 headline the drama, often played from elevated tees that combine spectacle with a premium on accuracy.
By contrast, the Arnold Palmer Course brings a different flavor. From the clubhouse you survey rolling holes with a meandering stream weaving among coconut groves. Three defining design notes on the Palmer nine:
- Wide but deceptive fairways, forcing precise strategy off the tee.
- Fluid transitions from one hole to the next, keeping the round’s rhythm intact.
- Buggy paths routed close to holes, optimizing pace and comfort.
The visuals are standout. The back nine on the Nicklaus Course projects a stark elegance, with water hazards dominating 11 through 17. That blend of tropical beauty and compelling strategy cements LGCR as one of Malaysia’s most picturesque tests.
Legends Golf Facilities
As a premium resort, The Legends Golf and Country Resort (LGCR) pairs its layouts with world-class amenities that round out the experience.
Grand Clubhouse
A tropical-style clubhouse anchors the property—spacious, comfortable, and practical. Expect modern locker rooms, a pro shop, sauna, jacuzzi, and a halal restaurant serving local and international dishes. Terraces and dining spaces look straight out over the golf—perfect for a post-round unwind.
Practice Grounds
The resort’s driving range (designed by Jack Nicklaus), expansive putting green, and dedicated beginner area make it easy to dial in your swing before tackling the main course.
Leisure & Family Activities
Beyond golf, LGCR offers swimming pools, billiards, a reading room, fishing spots, mountain-bike trails, and the Rider’s Lodge equestrian facility—where guests saddle up and wander the adjacent national park landscapes.
It’s a complete resort model—balancing sport, relaxation, and family recreation.
Player Reviews: The Legends Golf and Country Resort
Reviews trend mixed to positive, averaging 3.5 to 4.0 out of 5 across platforms.
Highlights
- Applause for the Nicklaus and Palmer designs—challenging yet beautiful.
- A large clubhouse with solid amenities (lockers, dining, sauna) adds comfort.
- Tropical scenery, rolling ground, and water in play boost aesthetics and shot value.
- Sightings of local wildlife (monkeys) add a uniquely Malaysian twist.
Watch-outs
- Inconsistent maintenance is occasionally mentioned, particularly on certain greens and fairways.
- Lodging can feel dated, with some rooms due for refresh.
- Feedback on service responsiveness and restaurant pricing/variety is mixed.
Even with these caveats, many golfers still consider LGCR a worthy destination, especially for those keen to play courses shaped by the legends themselves.
The Legends Golf and Country Resort Green Fees
2025 Rates
Tue–Thu
- Adults 18 holes: $65 per player
- Seniors (60+) 18 holes: $60 per player
- Young Adults (19–30) 18 holes: $60 per player
- Juniors (≤18) 18 holes: $35 per player
- Adults 9 holes: $45 per player
- Seniors 9 holes: $45 per player
Fri–Sun & Public Holidays
- Adults 18 holes: $80 per player
- Seniors 18 holes: $80 per player
- Young Adults 18 holes: $80 per player
- Juniors 18 holes: $35 per player
- Adults 9 holes: $55 per player
- Seniors 9 holes: $55 per player
Twilight Rates
LGCR also offers Twilight (after 3 pm) and Super Twilight (after 6 pm) from $40–$75, depending on category and day. Buggy fees are included. Walkers have a lower-priced option.
All prices include GST and PST, and are competitive for an international-grade venue with resort-level facilities.
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