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. Click
here to see the location map
Rating
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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.
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.
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On the course
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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
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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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Course Details
