The Redtail Golf Course in Ontario, Canada, was designed by Donald Steel in 1992 and built for a membership of just two individuals. These young men, Chris Goodwin and John Drake, handpicked Steel and asked him to build a golf course of considerable difficulty. Set just outside the small town of London, the site itself possessed pleasant golfing ground with subtle undulations mixed with wooded ravines and an attractive collection of established trees that provide a real sense of isolation and tranquility. When coupled with the fact that virtually no rounds are played here, it's easy to see why those lucky enough to be invited for a game are often gushing in their praise.

The reality, however, is that Redtail is a good course but not exactly a world-beater. Some of the playing corridors are a little tight, and the mounding employed by Steel in peripheral areas is too symmetrical and detracts from what should feel a really natural golf course. Individually his holes are sound, but again there aren't any here likely to leave a lasting impression on the seasoned golf traveler. Indeed, the most appealing aspect of Redtail, apart from exclusivity, are the more subtle green sites and the odd approach shots across undulation.

Redtail is a cool place to play golf, but those who have experienced impressive private golfing retreats like Ellerston and Prince de Provence are likely to be a little underwhelmed.