LAS VEGAS, Nev. (Nov. 7, 2016)–There are times when it’s tough to put into words how impressive a golf resort and it’s amenities are. Such is the case with Rio Secco Golf Club. Sure, there is an 18-hole golf course, but dig deeper and it’s the little things that make this golf experience one you’ll never forget. –By Bill Bowman.
OK, as usual, let’s start with the golf because that’s the reason you’re on the first tee. The layout is a Rees Jones design that can stretch out to 7,313 yards from the tips. The course winds over, around and through desert landscaping with risk/reward holes, dramatic water features and challenging greens highlighting the round.
But, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The golf course is affiliated with Caesars Entertainment properties and features some of Vegas’ finest resorts–including Bally’s, Caesars Palace, Rio, Harrah’s and many more–that can be tied in with the golf and make for an outstanding Las Vegas golf getaway…whether you’re from out of town or live here.
“With our sister property Cascata, we’ve got 36 holes of great golf to offer players and that’s very appealing,” said Mark Blais, director of sales and marketing. “We’ve got a variety of property choices for accommodations to fit every guest’s taste and budget. And we have Butch Harmon (the Butch Harmon School of Golf) on property and PGA Tour players do come around. The course is designed by Rees Jones (along with Cascata) so this is just a pure golf experience.”
Want more? We’re glad you asked. There’s also the Butch Harmon School of Golf is located on the opposite end of the practice facility. If your game’s not up to par, Harmon and his staff can certainly lend a helping hand. Two and three-day schools are available (some with and some without golf’s No. 1 teacher…you know, the guy who has worked with the likes of Tiger Woods, Greg Norman, Phil Mickelson and–more recently–Jimmie Walker and Rickie Fowler). The packages include golf, instruction and stays at a Caesars property.
Now, back to the course. This one’s a shotmaker’s paradise. Arroyos, desert and canyons all come into play and require players to think before they swing. Some of the par 3s are the best around and are as daunting as any players will take on. Take your best shot at the third hole if you don’t believe us. It plays 180 yards from the tips and while that may sound easy enough, take into consideration that the shot plays over a deep canyon and it’s all carry. The landing area is a sliver of a green making a player’s distance control the top priority (although there is bailout area to the left).
Also on the course is one of Vegas’ best betting options: The Par 3 Challenge. It’s one of the best bets in Vegas because players simply can’t lose. It takes place on the 7th hole. Players bet a minimum of $20 on their ability to hit the green. If their shot does land on the green, they double their money (in property credit such as apparel or restaurant items). But, if players don’t hit the green, they still receive their wager back in property credit. It’s a win-win situation.
And before or after the round, there’s Janelas Restaurant & Bar. From a steak and eggs breakfast to a burger or sandwich or other lunch special, the variety from the grill almost matches the variety of golf holes on the course.
There you have it…not just a round of golf, but a thrill-ride golf experience that will be memorable from start to finish.
“All of our guests, whether they are local or out-of-town, will find a first-class golf experience,” Blais said. “We always strive to keep course conditions and customer service at first-class standards.”
To book a tee time at Rio Secco Golf Club, click here.