RIO SECCO GOLF CLUB (1997)

 

DESERT REGION

Resort: 18 hole - cost: $125 - $290

2851 Grand Hills Drive, Henderson, NV 89012

Tel: (888) 867-3226 

 

Designed by Rees Jones. This is a hilly, well-conditioned course with large greens that are surrounded by mounding and protected by traps. Although the course affords excellent views, keep your attention on the generous fairways -- outside the fairways the view is not so pretty. Primarily for guests of the Rio Hotel, guests of other hotels are welcome. From the Las Vegas Airport (about ten miles south to the course): Take I-215 east, exit onto Eastern Avenue and go south. Stay on Eastern Avenue; don't turn off into Anthem. Turn right at the stop sign on Grand Hills Drive to the course. This is a spectacular Rees Jones desert course, but the price is too steep.

 

RIO VISTA GOLF CLUB (1996)

 

CENTRAL VALLEY REGION

Public: 18 hole - cost: $26 - $49

1000 Summerset Drive, Rio Vista, CA 94571

Tel: (707) 374-2900 

 

Designed by Ted Robinson. For the low handicapper with nerves of steel, there are plenty of opportunities for birdies. For those with Jell-O legs, we suggest you think twice before hitting a driver off the tee. Why? Because if you miss the fairways, you could be depleting your stash of golf balls. You will find water on 14 of the 18 holes. Besides plenty of water, you will encounter moguls and well-placed traps around the greens and in the fairway. Afternoon wind is usually a factor. From Vallejo (about 40 miles east to the course): Take I-80 east to Highway 12 east. The course is two miles west of Rio Vista. Make a left on Summerset Road to the course. A strong, demanding layout.