Ireland is renowned for its lush green landscapes, dramatic coastal scenery, and world-class golf courses. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a casual player looking to experience the beauty of Irish golf, this guide will help you discover some of the best golf courses in Ireland.
1. Royal County Down Golf Club
Location: Newcastle, County DownOverview: Royal County Down consistently ranks among the top golf courses in the world. With stunning views of the Mourne Mountains and the Irish Sea, this links course offers a challenging but rewarding experience. The 4th hole, “Calamity Corner,” is particularly famous for its difficulty.
2. Ballybunion Golf Club
Location: Ballybunion, County Kerry
Overview: Ballybunion boasts two courses: the Old Course and the Cashen Course. The Old Course is a masterpiece, featuring undulating fairways and challenging greens. Golfers from around the globe come to experience its rugged beauty and formidable challenges.
3. Lahinch Golf Club
Location: Lahinch, County Clare
Overview: Lahinch Golf Club offers a classic links experience with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. The course has been recently redesigned by Martin Hawtree, enhancing its reputation as one of Ireland’s best. The famous “Klondyke” par-5 hole is a must-play for any golfer.
4. Portmarnock Golf Club
Location: Portmarnock, County Dublin
Overview: Portmarnock is one of Ireland’s oldest and most prestigious golf clubs. The course is set on a narrow peninsula and provides a traditional links challenge. Its location, near Dublin, makes it easily accessible for visitors to the capital city.
5. Tralee Golf Club
Location: Tralee, County Kerry
Overview: Designed by Arnold Palmer, Tralee Golf Club offers a stunning layout along the rugged Irish coastline. The course features breathtaking views and a mix of challenging and scenic holes, making it a memorable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
6. Royal Portrush Golf Club
Location: Portrush, County Antrim
Overview: Royal Portrush is one of the most famous courses in Northern Ireland. It hosted The Open Championship in 2019, bringing international attention to its challenging Dunluce Links course. The stunning views of the Giant’s Causeway and the North Atlantic Ocean add to its allure.
7. Waterville Golf Links
Location: Waterville, County Kerry
Overview: Waterville Golf Links is nestled between the mountains and the sea, offering a unique golfing experience. The course is a blend of traditional links holes and those with a more American-style feel, providing variety and excitement.
8. The K Club
Location: Straffan, County Kildare
Overview: The K Club is a parkland-style course known for its pristine fairways and manicured greens. It has hosted prestigious tournaments, including the 2006 Ryder Cup. The Ryder Cup Course is the centerpiece, featuring challenging water hazards and strategic bunkering.
9. Doonbeg Golf Club
Location: Doonbeg, County Clare
Overview: Now known as Trump International Golf Links, Doonbeg offers a stunning coastal setting with rolling dunes and challenging holes. The course’s recent redesign by Dr. Martin Hawtree has enhanced its reputation as a top-class golf destination.
10. County Louth Golf Club (Baltray)
Location: Baltray, County Louth
Overview: County Louth Golf Club, also known as Baltray, is a hidden gem that has hosted numerous amateur and professional events. It offers a classic links experience with natural undulations and strategic bunkering.
Additional Tips for Golfing in Ireland
Before you embark on your golfing journey in Ireland, here are some additional tips to make the most of your experience:
1. Plan Ahead:
- Make tee time reservations well in advance, especially for the most popular courses.
- Consider the weather and daylight hours when planning your golf itinerary, as Irish weather can be unpredictable.
2. Local Etiquette:
- Familiarize yourself with golf etiquette in Ireland, which includes repairing divots, raking bunkers, and keeping up with the pace of play.
- Engage with locals and fellow golfers to immerse yourself in the warm Irish golfing community.
3. Equipment and Attire:
- Check with each course regarding their dress code and rental equipment availability.
- Bring appropriate rain gear and layers, as the weather can change quickly.
4. Caddies and Golf Guides:
- Consider hiring a local caddy who can provide valuable course knowledge and help you navigate the terrain.
- Some courses offer guided tours or packages that include accommodations and golf.
5. Explore the Surroundings:
- Take time to explore the local towns, culture, and cuisine between rounds of golf.
- Many golf courses are situated near historic sites and natural wonders, so plan some sightseeing as well.
6. Travel Documents:
- Ensure your passport and any required visas are up to date if you are traveling from abroad.
- Familiarize yourself with COVID-19 travel guidelines and restrictions that may be in place.
7. Respect the Environment:
- Be mindful of the natural surroundings and adhere to any course-specific environmental guidelines.
- Carry a reusable water bottle and minimize waste during your rounds.
8. Golf Packages and Tours:
- Consider booking a golf package or tour with a reputable operator that can handle logistics and tee times for multiple courses.
9. Local Cuisine and Refreshments:
- Savor traditional Irish dishes and beverages at local pubs and restaurants.
- Try some of Ireland’s famous whiskeys and beers to round out your culinary experience.
10. Enjoy the Journey:
- Remember that golfing in Ireland is not just about the game but also about the beautiful landscapes, the rich history, and the friendly people.
- Capture the memories with photos, but also take moments to soak in the breathtaking scenery.
Top 10 Golf Courses in Ireland
| Course Name | Location | Designer | Year Built | Par |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ballybunion Golf Links | County Kerry | Tom Simpson | 1893 | 71 |
| Royal County Down Golf Club | County Down | Old Tom Morris | 1889 | 71 |
| Lahinch Golf Club | County Clare | Alister MacKenzie | 1892 | 72 |
| Portmarnock Golf Club | County Dublin | Bernard Darwin | 1894 | 71 |
| The European Club | County Wicklow | Pat Ruddy | 1987 | 71 |
| Adare Manor Golf Resort | County Limerick | Tom Fazio | 1995 | 72 |
| Tralee Golf Club | County Kerry | Arnold Palmer | 1984 | 72 |
| Waterville Golf Links | County Kerry | Eddie Hackett | 1889 | 72 |
| The K Club | County Kildare | Arnold Palmer | 1991 | 72 |
| County Sligo Golf Club | County Sligo | Harry S. Colt | 1894 | 71 |
Golf Tournament Winners
| Tournament | Year | Winner | Nationality | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Open | 2021 | Collin Morikawa | USA | -15 |
| Masters Tournament | 2021 | Hideki Matsuyama | Japan | -10 |
| U.S. Open | 2021 | Jon Rahm | Spain | -6 |
| PGA Championship | 2021 | Phil Mickelson | USA | -6 |
| Ryder Cup | 2021 | Team USA | USA/Europe | 19-9 |
| The Open | 2020 | Cancelled (COVID-19) | N/A | N/A |
| Masters Tournament | 2020 | Dustin Johnson | USA | -20 |
| U.S. Open | 2020 | Bryson DeChambeau | USA | -6 |
| PGA Championship | 2020 | Collin Morikawa | USA | -13 |
| Ryder Cup | 2018 | Team Europe | Europe | 17.5-10.5 |
Golf Equipment Brands
| Brand | Headquarters | Founded | Popular Products | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Titleist | Fairhaven, MA | 1932 | Golf balls, clubs, gear | www.titleist.com |
| Callaway | Carlsbad, CA | 1982 | Golf clubs, balls | www.callawaygolf.com |
| TaylorMade | Carlsbad, CA | 1979 | Golf clubs, balls | www.taylormadegolf.com |
| Ping | Phoenix, AZ | 1959 | Golf clubs, equipment | www.ping.com |
| Cobra Golf | Carlsbad, CA | 1973 | Golf clubs, accessories | www.cobragolf.com |
| Mizuno | Norcross, GA | 1906 | Golf clubs, apparel | www.mizunousa.com |
| Wilson Staff | Chicago, IL | 1914 | Golf clubs, balls | www.wilson.com |
| Srixon | Huntington Beach, CA | 1930 | Golf balls, clubs | www.srixon.com |
| Odyssey | Carlsbad, CA | 1991 | Golf putters | www.odysseygolf.com |
| Cleveland Golf | Huntington Beach, CA | 1979 | Golf clubs, wedges | www.clevelandgolf.com |
Golf Majors and Dates
| Major Championship | First Played | Venue | Location | Next Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Masters | 1934 | Augusta National | Augusta, Georgia | 2024 |
| U.S. Open | 1895 | Various | Varies | 2024 |
| The Open (British Open) | 1860 | Various | Varies | 2024 |
| PGA Championship | 1916 | Various | Varies | 2024 |
Golf Scoring Terms
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Birdie | Scoring one stroke under par on a hole. |
| Eagle | Scoring two strokes under par on a hole. |
| Bogey | Scoring one stroke over par on a hole. |
| Par | The number of strokes a skilled golfer should take to complete a hole or round. |
| Double Bogey | Scoring two strokes over par on a hole. |
| Hole-in-One | Scoring a hole with only one stroke. |
| Albatross (Double Eagle) | Scoring three strokes under par on a hole. |
| Ace | Another term for a hole-in-one. |
| Fairway | The short grass area of the golf course between the tee and the green. |
| Green | The putting surface of a golf hole. |
Conclusion
Ireland’s golf courses offer a diverse range of experiences, from rugged links to manicured parklands, all set against the backdrop of the country’s stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a serious golfer or simply looking to enjoy a round in a picturesque setting, these top golf courses in Ireland have something to offer every golfer. Plan your golfing adventure and tee off on some of the world’s finest courses while enjoying the Emerald Isle’s natural beauty.
