Blue Canyon Country Club (Canyon Course)

A legendary Phuket course that once hosted the Johnnie Walker Classic where Tiger Woods played; its signature feature is the old mining canyon that serves as a water hazard.

Overview

The Canyon Course at Blue Canyon Country Club in Phuket opened in December 1991, built on land that was formerly an old tin mine and rubber plantations. Designed by Japanese golf course architect Yoshikazu Kato, the layout follows the natural lines of the canyon and existing native forest, disturbing the terrain as little as possible. Its defining feature is the abundance of water hazards flanked by rows of towering trees, making the course both challenging and beautiful at the same time — earning it a reputation as one of the most outstanding championship courses in Asia.

Highlights & Signature Holes

• Hole 13, “The Tiger Hole,” named after Tiger Woods after he drove across the canyon onto the green from around 270 yards in 1998
• Hole 17, a par 3 that Gary Player once called the best par 3 he had ever seen, requiring a carry over water of more than 200 yards from the back tee
• Host of the Johnnie Walker Classic three times (1994, 1998, 2007), including the tournament where Tiger Woods staged a comeback to win in 1998

Who it suits

Ideal for golfers who want to test their game against a serious championship course, and for golf travelers who want to experience one of Thailand’s legendary courses at least once. Given the difficulty of the layout, however, beginners should be prepared for the water hazards and the canyon.

Before you go

The course is located in the northern part of Phuket island, near Phuket International Airport, making it easy to reach. Book your tee time well in advance, especially during high season, and allow for the hot, humid weather typical of southern Thailand.