The Rio Secco Golf Club was built in 1997 and designed by Rees Jones. The 7,400-yard course can be quite a challenge. However, with four teeing grounds, golfers of any skill can enjoy the course. Rio Secco is known for the challenges it presents to pro golfers, while novice players often remember the beautiful setting and natural wildlife in the area.
History
The Rio Secco is owned and operated by Harrah's Entertainment. Thus, many guests travel to the course from their hotels in the Las Vegas area during the day. The course is well-known for its great customer service and course conditions. The course was designed so that tee times occur every 10 minutes.
Features
Overlooking the 7th, 8th and 9th holes is the Rio Secco Golf Club Clubhouse. This 30,000-square-foot building was designed with a European theme. Dark woods and natural stone are present throughout. The clubhouse is decorated with black-and-white photos of some of history's best golfers. In addition, the club contains a 2,000-square-foot golf shop that offers apparel and equipment.
Dining options at Rio Secco include Janelas Restaurant, which seats up to 120 guests. The main bar area includes six plasma televisions, and the venue serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Function
Within the Rio Secco property lies the Butch Harmon School of Golf. Harmon rose to fame as one of the best golf teachers in the world. He is the former coach of Tiger Woods and still coaches pro Phil Mickelson. Guests can partake of the 1-, 2- or 3-day golf schools with Butch and his staff. However, plans must be made in advance. Butch is also available for promotional appearances if booked ahead of time.
Geography
The Rio Secco golf course is located at the foothills of the Black Mountain Range. It sits less than 14 miles from the Las Vegas strip. With six holes going through steep canyons, six holes on a plateau overlooking the city and another six in a broad desert wash, the course is quite versatile in terms of geography. The atmosphere is truly breathtaking, with panoramic views of the desert, mountains and city.
Expert Insight
Rio Secco was voted one of "America's 100 Greatest Resort Golf Courses." In addition, when it opened, it was voted one of the top 10 new courses by Golf Digest and Golf Magazine. It was also voted the No. One public-access course in Nevada in the Las Vegas PGA membership poll.
Resources
- —Rio Secco offers instruction by the No. One golf instructor in the world.
