Tucked away in Phuket’s lush Kathu region, Red Mountain Golf Club is a breathtaking fusion of nature’s drama and architectural brilliance. Opened in 2007, this 6,781-yard, par-72 masterpiece, designed by architects Jon Morrow and Al Tikkanen, is sculpted into the rugged remnants of a former tin mine. Its dramatic landscape, characterized by red cliffs, dense jungle, and shimmering lakes, makes it not only Phuket’s most celebrated golf course but also one of Asia’s most exhilarating. For golfers seeking a round that challenges their skill, captivates their senses, and leaves an indelible memory, Red Mountain is an unmissable destination.
A Course Born from the Earth
The story of Red Mountain begins with its unique origins. The site, once a bustling tin mine, left behind a scarred yet striking terrain of steep elevation changes, exposed red rock, and natural water hazards. Rather than taming this rugged canvas, Morrow and Tikkanen embraced it, crafting a course that feels like a thrilling journey through Phuket’s historical and natural tapestry. The remnants of the tin-mining era are woven into the design — former mining pits now form challenging water hazards, and eroded ridges create natural bunkers. This thoughtful integration gives Red Mountain a character unlike any other, where every hole tells a story of the land’s past.
The course’s layout is a strategic player’s dream, offering risk-and-reward opportunities that test both precision and nerve. From the championship tees, it stretches to nearly 7,000 yards, presenting a formidable challenge for low handicappers, while the white tees at 5,900 yards offer a more forgiving experience for mid-to-high handicappers. The Bermuda grass greens are fast yet true, and the Seashore Paspalum fairways provide a lush contrast to the surrounding red cliffs and jungle. Golf carts are mandatory due to the dramatic elevation changes, and each player is paired with a caddy — often praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to read the course’s tricky greens.
Signature Holes That Define the Experience
Among Red Mountain’s 18 holes, a few stand out as unforgettable. The par-3 17th, often hailed as the course’s signature, is a heart-pounding test of accuracy. Perched on a precipitous ledge, the tee box towers 50 meters above a postage-stamp green nestled in a lush valley framed by jungle and red rock. The 169-yard shot plays shorter due to the elevation drop, but the narrow corridor through towering trees demands pinpoint precision. Standing on the tee, with Phuket’s verdant landscape unfolding below, is as exhilarating as it is daunting.
The par-5 18th, aptly named “Garden,” provides a dramatic finale. The tee shot threads through a tight jungle chute before opening to a fairway flanked by water on the right and red cliffs on the left. A babbling brook separates the landing area from the approach, and strategically placed bunkers guard the green, making par a rewarding achievement. From the clubhouse terrace, where golfers can savour a cold Singha beer and spicy Tom Yum soup, the view of this closing hole encapsulates Red Mountain’s blend of beauty and challenge.
The par-3 3rd hole offers an early taste of the course’s unique character. Here, the tin mine’s scars are preserved as a wasteland of eroded gullies and ridges, creating a visually striking hazard that punishes errant shots. Meanwhile, the par-4 10th, framed by a large lake and the iconic red mountains, demands careful club selection to avoid a watery fate. These holes, among others, ensure that Red Mountain is as visually stunning as it is tactically engaging.
A Natural and Cultural Oasis
Beyond its golfing prowess, Red Mountain is a celebration of Phuket’s natural splendour. The course is enveloped by a tropical paradise of exotic ferns, wild orchids, and Indian rhododendrons, attracting colourful butterflies and birds. Ornithological trails wind through the projperty, inviting birdwatchers to spot some of the region’s most distinctive species, from vibrant kingfishers to elusive hornbills. This commitment to preserving the local ecosystem extends to the course’s eco-friendly practices, including water conservation and habitat protection, ensuring that Red Mountain remains a sustainable haven for both golfers and wildlife.
Phuket itself is a vibrant backdrop to the Red Mountain experience. Located just 15 minutes from the lively Patong Beach and 35 minutes from the serene Karon and Laguna districts, the course is easily accessible for visitors staying in Phuket’s popular resort areas. The island is a cultural and culinary melting pot, where golfers can complement their round with explorations of bustling night markets, ornate temples like Wat Chalong, or the iconic Big Buddha statue visible from the course’s highest point on the 16th hole. Phuket’s cuisine, from fiery som tam (papaya salad) to creamy massaman curry, is a delight, and Red Mountain’s clubhouse restaurant serves both Thai and Western dishes with panoramic views of the fairways.
A Legacy of Excellence
Since its inception, Red Mountain has earned accolades that cement its status as a world-class destination. It won the “Platinum Golf Course of the Year” at the 2011 Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards and was named “Best in Thailand” by Golf Digest in 2014. Golfers consistently praise its immaculate conditioning, with drainage systems ensuring playability even during Phuket’s rainy season, when streams and waterfalls add to the course’s dramatic allure. The caddies, often described as the best in Phuket, bring warmth and expertise, making every round a personalized experience.
Red Mountain is operated by MBK Resort Public Company Limited, which also manages the neighbouring Loch Palm Golf Club, a more forgiving course that complements Red Mountain’s intensity. Together, they form a golfing duo that caters to a wide range of players. The Tinidee Golf Resort Phuket, located opposite Red Mountain, offers convenient accommodations and discounted rates for guests, making it an ideal base for a golf-centric holiday.
Practical Considerations
Playing Red Mountain is a premium experience, with green fees reflecting its status as Phuket’s most exclusive course. Rates typically include a compulsory caddy and golf cart, with additional costs for club rentals, which are of high quality, featuring brands like Titleist and Callaway. The course’s central location, just 30 kilometers from Phuket International Airport, makes it a convenient addition to any itinerary.
Recent reviews highlight ongoing renovations to a few holes, aimed at enhancing the course without altering its iconic character. Some golfers have noted tree clearing near the 12th and 15th holes, likely related to nearby hospital development, but management assures that the course’s integrity remains intact. The clubhouse, with its modern locker rooms, well-stocked pro shop, and open-air terrace, provides a luxurious post-round retreat. A 300-baht voucher for the restaurant, often included with the round, adds a thoughtful touch, covering a hearty lunch of Thai specialities or Western favourites.
Why Red Mountain Matters
Red Mountain Golf Club is more than a golf course — it’s an experience that captures the essence of Phuket’s wild beauty and rich history. Its challenging layout, breathtaking vistas, and commitment to environmental stewardship make it a bucket-list destination for golfers worldwide. Whether you’re a scratch golfer relishing the strategic demands or a casual player soaking in the scenery, Red Mountain delivers a round that lingers in the memory long after the final putt. As you stand on the 16th hole, gazing across Phuket City to the distant Big Buddha, or navigate the thrilling descent of the 17th, you’ll understand why Red Mountain is hailed as Southeast Asia’s premier golfing gem.
For those planning a golfing adventure in Thailand, Red Mountain is a must-play. Pair it with a stay at a nearby resort, a visit to Phuket’s cultural landmarks, and a taste of its vibrant cuisine, and you have the recipe for an unforgettable holiday. Just be sure to consult your caddy, trust your swing, and let the red mountains guide you through one of the world’s most spectacular courses.
