Mission Hills Golf Resort and Spa in Phuket
Country Clubs & Courses Guide
Location
Phuket's first 21st Century championship course
lies on the scenic north-east coast. A nine-hole night golf
course, due to open in early 2005, is also close by in the
foothills. The courses are 10 minutes' drive from the airport
and 30 minutes from Phuket City.
Rating
Mission Hills might be by the sea but it is not a links
course. It actually bears no similarity to other courses
on the island but probably reflects Phuket's character most
accurately.
Nicklaus Design has added some distinguishing quirks, like
the two greens that offer alternative finishes on Hole 18.
Paspalum Sea Isle grasses add stunning colors and thrive
in the salty soil. Read a hole-by-hole review...
Facilities
Five target greens make the driving range an accurate reflection
of the game. International restaurants, bar lounges and
a swimming pool are part of the 72 room-resort. There is
also a pro shop, patio cafe, kiosks, plus a private function
room, and of course a spa.
On the course
Mission Hills has been carved from rubber plantations and
sits among Phuket's environmentally-friendly mangroves.
Great expanses of white sand beach bunkers have been added
to contrast with the translucent blue hues of the ocean
and the vibrant greens of the Sea Isle grassed fairways
and putting surfaces. It is accurately described as a "piece
of living art," the kind of pastiche that Vincent Van
Goh would have created given half a chance and a love of
a long drive.
The ocean views are delivered at a price: water comes in
to play at seven holes. The sea breezes also are a regular
feature. What time of day you choose to play can turn a
following zephyr into a stiff headwind. While the spa awaits
at the 19th hole, stress and tiredness are further banished
with caddies and golf carts both being compulsory. It is
not unknown for snacks to be delivered out on the course
at lunchtime.
Top holes
Hole 4
Hole 4, first of the ocean holes, is a medium-length par
three with spectacular views across the Phuket Sea. The
putting surface is an island of grass in a sea of white
sand.
Hole 2
One island, two greens: Hole 2 is a par five that
requires two well-placed shots to give the golfer a comfortable
third to the island putting surface. The island is shared
with the green for Hole 5, a par 4 that plays back towards
the clubhouse from tees situated in a sandy expanse.
Accommodation
At the top-quality resort beside the course or in hotels
and guesthouses around the island that vary from five-star
to lone-star. Read more about the Mission
Hills Resort
Transport
Round-trip transfers are available to Mission Hills from
anywhere on the island for 1000 baht a person.
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