Red Mountain Golf Club, designed by Jonathan Morrow in collaboration with Al Tikkanen, officially opened in 2007 and has established itself as one of Phuket’s most distinctive golf destinations. Located in Kathu, at the heart of Phuket, Thailand, the 18-hole, par-72 championship course stretches across approximately 6,905 yards and occupies the site of a former tin mine. Rather than reshaping the landscape entirely, the designers incorporated the area’s natural mining formations into the course, preserving its dramatic red rock cliffs, rugged hillsides and deep valleys. This distinctive setting gives Red Mountain Golf Club a character that sets it apart from many other golf courses in Thailand, combining striking natural scenery with a challenging championship layout.
The terrain at Red Mountain Golf Club is defined by dramatic elevation changes, exposed red rock formations, dense tropical vegetation and winding fairways that follow the contours of the former mining site. Deep ravines, steep slopes and flooded mining pits create natural water hazards, while narrow landing areas and strategically positioned bunkers demand accuracy and careful course management. Several holes feature elevated tee boxes overlooking valleys, requiring golfers to assess both distance and changes in elevation before selecting their clubs. Unlike relatively flat courses with more predictable playing conditions, Red Mountain presents a constantly changing landscape, with uphill and downhill shots adding another layer of difficulty. The course particularly rewards golfers who prioritize accuracy and strategic shot placement over sheer distance, as shots that stray from the fairway can quickly become difficult to recover.
Several standout holes showcase the course’s dramatic landscape and distinctive design. The par-3 17th is widely regarded as the signature hole, featuring a tee box positioned high above the green, with a steep downhill drop of more than 40 metres. Surrounded by dense jungle vegetation and rugged red rock formations, the hole demands precise distance control and careful consideration of wind conditions, as the significant elevation difference can make club selection particularly challenging. Another memorable stretch is the closing hole, which continues the course’s roller-coaster terrain with a downhill layout that requires thoughtful shot placement from tee to green. Throughout the round, golfers encounter a variety of playing situations, from elevated tee shots and narrow fairways to demanding approach shots across uneven terrain. With its striking red cliffs, dramatic elevation changes and challenging layout built around a former tin mine, Red Mountain Golf Club delivers a distinctive golfing experience that combines the natural character of Phuket with a demanding test of golfing skill.
