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Only 4 miles from Dublin Airport this is another of Christy O'Connor Jnr.'s designs. With water coming into play on 12 holes it is a
great test of golf. Looking at the strokesaver you would think that the fairways are narrow and that there is trouble everywhere. But it's not true. The fairways are generous and there is enough trouble to cause you hassle but only if you go off target!!
The 6th hole is a testing par 3 with water on the right hand side. Believe in your shot and you will be alright. The 8th is a demanding hole with out of bounds on the left and right. Don't overcook it or you will end up in the water. It's a short enough par 4 but demands accuracy (don't they
all!!).
By the time you get to the 18th you will be tired and it's a par 5. With bunkers on the right and water on the left try and keep straight. A great golf course in the making it will get to be a stiffer and stiffer test as the years go by. Well worth a look now before the price goes up!!
Index of Courses.
Killerig is a land of golfing promise; the panoramic views are some of the most pleasing in South Leinster - the Wicklow mountains to the East, the Killeshin hills to the West, offering a setting of rich beauty.
The designers, Des Smyth and Declan Brannigan,
who have been responsible for such magnificent golf courses as Waterford Castle, Limerick County and Seapoint, and Paddy Governey of Sporting Concepts Ireland Ltd. Who has been associated with Rathsallagh, Powerscourt and Glen Of The Downs, are agreed that Killerig Castle will be one of the finest Parkland Courses
in Ireland. The gentle rolling hills of County Carlow now offer another golfing jewel to the crown of magnificent courses that dot the island of Ireland. The greens at Killerig have been sown with Providence Creeping Bent grass that gives a world-class putting surface all year round. With the recently opened Ramada hotel and Golf Suites with swimming pool and therapy Spa unit the whole complex has been rounded off to a high standard.
Now there is something for everyone, golfer and non-golfer alike. The
hotel rooms each have a balcony with a view of the golf course.
Index of Courses.
Kilkea was built in 1180 by Hugh de lacey and was once owned by the Geraldine dynasty.
It has passes since to the Conways, who have converted its lofty halls into a luxury hotel and its surrounding estate into a championship golf course with international
appeal. Here Irish course designers and groundsmen have crafted the soil of Kilkea into bunkers, greens and rolling fairways, where the natural hazard of the River Griese which can be viewed in some form from almost every hole, adds both to the challenge and the charm.
The
timeless beauty of the wooded countryside combines with the fascinating features of the course to ensure that every game you play at Kilkea will live on in your memory as enduringly as the castle walls themselves. The
splendor of the Castle itself can be viewed from every corner of the fairway. Two lakes have also been included in the course design, adding to the overall difficulty of the challenge.
Index of Courses.
The Gold Coast Golf was originally a 9 hole course since 1939 but recently developed to 18 holes.
The mature tree lined fairways of the old course are cleverly mingled with the long and challenging newer holes to create a truly superb golf course. At 6,788 yards off the back tees, the course will present a real challenge for the discerning golfer wishing to test their skill in a magnificent and spectacular location. For the ladies the 5,531 yard course is equally demanding and
rewarding. Scenic and challenging 18 hole golf course bordered by Atlantic ocean with unrivalled panoramic views of Dungarvan Bay and the Comeragh mountains. July 2007 Update: Having just played the Gold Coast for the first time we would have to say that it is well worth the trip.
Some of the holes are daunting and it is hard to hit the ball straight out to Sea!! If you haven't played the
course you will wonder what that is about but if you have you will know that it's reference to the 6th, 8th and the 15th. Even though it was wet and windy when we played we will be back again. Lovely, scenic, seaside setting.
Index of Courses.
With the Hilton Group recently taking over the hotel operations this has become another fine venue in South County Carlow for golf. The 18 hole championship golf course was designed by Irish Ryder Cup hero Christy O'Connor Jnr.
He has developed many fine courses and Mount Wolseley is no exception. With tree lined fairways and plenty of wildlife this course looks as if it has been here for hundreds of years.
The course offers a different challenge on each hole. From the seemingly innocent first to the stunning
18th you will have to play every club in the bag and find your way around this great golf course. A fine swimming pool and fitness centre allow you to relax away from the stresses and strains of the golf course or life!!
A great golf course has only been made better by the latest addition and makes for a great golf holiday destination.
Index of Courses.
Waterford Castle Golf Club, Ireland's only true Island course, is situated in the estuary of the River Suir, one mile downstream of Waterford City. To gain access to the course you have to cross the water by ferry. It is an 18-hole Par 72 course of full Championship standard, designed by a team headed by Des Smyth, former Ryder Cup player and a current member of the European tour and of late finding success on the Seniors Tour.
With sand-based tees and greens and a full
irrigation system to tees, greens and fairways, the course also features many mature plantations, a number of artificial lakes to add to the beautiful parkland setting, and superb bunkering, strategically placed to test the long hitter. At 6,790 yards off the back tees, the course will present a real challenge for
the discerning golfer wishing to test his skill in a magnificent location. For ladies the 5,550 yard course is equally demanding and rewarding.
Index of Courses.
The West Waterford Golf Club is built on 150 acres of rolling parkland on the banks of the Brickey River with the backdrop of the Comeragh Mountains to the east, the Knockmealdowns to the north and Drum Hills to the south. An interesting feature is that the
first nine holes are laid out on a large plateau featuring a lovely stream that comes into play at the 3rd and 4th holes. The Brickey River traverses the southern boundary and features the 2nd, 12th, 14th, 15th and 16th holes that make these very challenging golf holes. The imposing clubhouse overlooks the course with fine views from the upstairs bar. A very friendly and welcoming course it is a fine example of Irish hospitality.
Index of Courses.
A very popular venue with Irish golfers and societies, Knockanally Golf Club was designed by its owner, Noel Lyons. It hosted the Irish International Professional Matchplay Championship in 1987/88/89 and the Irish Club Professional Championship in 1994.
According
to Christy O'Connor Snr., it has one of the most difficult opening holes in Irish golf. The course was built in 1985 and runs a route through woodlands bringing water into play on seven holes. One of the most attractive is the
par three 11th. Beautifully set amidst overhanging trees and protected front and right side by water. Index one is the 5th, a 424 yard dog leg left with water to left of green. Knockanally
is about a 40 minute drive from Dublin's city centre.
Index of Courses.
Just 6 miles east of Limerick City, Limerick County is a 'pursuit of excellence' operation. Built to modern specification, the course is a cleverly designed test featuring some truly intimidating water hazards. It is routed through a delightfully natural
countryside of mature woodlands and rolling hills. The course stretches to 6782 yards from the blue markers with a par of 72. Index one is the difficult 14th, 449 par four from an elevated tee at the highest point of the course. A state of the art club house, excellent cuisine, Limerick County also offers residential bungalows to visitors. Among club facilities is a purpose built tuition academy.
Index of Courses.
The Glasson Experience has the capacity to overwhelm in at least 4 different ways.
Firstly, there is the setting - it is simply sublime. Secondly, the welcome is one of the
warmest you are ever likely to receive. Thirdly, there is the course itself, one of the most interesting you are ever likely to play, and finally perhaps no golf club in the world offers
the opportunity to roll up at its gates in quite so stylish a manner. The "Glasson Experience" is shortly to get even better as a 30 bedroom Hotel, which is being built adjacent to the existing clubhouse and with magnificent views of Lough Ree and the golf Course, opens in July 2001. As befits the Nature of the
surroundings at Glasson all of the spacious rooms will be fitted to a four star standard. Christy O'Connor Course Designer:- "One of the most scenic pieces of land I've ever seen in my life, with the first nine overlooking Lough Ree and the second nine in Killinure Bay, there is nothing I've seen that comes close to that.
Index of Courses.
More than 10,000 years ago the retreating glaciers of the Ice Age created the stunning landscape of plateaux, sweeping valleys, natural lakes and free draining soil on which Esker Hills is built. Add the genius of Christy O'Connor Jnr. and you have a golfing
gem in a unique setting with 18 holes of challenging championship golf where no two holes are remotely alike. Noted for its distinct links feel, superb sand-based greens and warm welcome, Esker Hills is the ultimate golfing test
and one that you will certainly remember. Esker Hills is a challenging course and not for the faint hearted. You will be tested both in golf and physicality. Some of the holes have to be seen to be believed! This
course is gouged out along the valleys of glaciers and the hills are sheer. You would wonder how golf balls can stay up on them - but they can. The welcoming atmosphere from Donal and his crew will entice you back to play this course again. It has matured magnificently since the days of the portakabin. If you haven't been recently - mark it up for a visit
soon. Christy O'Connor:- "Esker Hills..... a jewel in the heart of Ireland with as much variety and challenge as one could wish for on a golf course."
Index of Courses.
This wonderful golf course has been woven into the fabric of this mature Georgian estate, designed by top tour professional, Philip Walton. Using the natural features of woodland and parkland, adorned by the Multeen River, Philip has created an exhilarating,
par 72 which provides a real test of golf. The visual delights of this magnificent setting are many - just a few hundred yards from the banks of the Multeen River, its rich population of mature woodland, and lakes - all set against the backdrop of the golden Vale of
Tipperary. All golfers are welcome and will be well catered for in the excellent Venue restaurant and lounge/bar. The Venue with a grandstand view of the eighteenth fairway, and a welcoming open fire, creates a cosy atmosphere
and provides nightly entertainment from Thursday through to Sunday. Has been home to many a championship including the Shamrock Golf Trophy.
It has seen some fine exhibitions of golf and remains one of the firm favourites.
Index of Courses.
The 18-Hole championship Golf Course designed by Ryder Cup Star Philip Walton is only one of the facilities the resort included. The course overlooks one of Ireland's most beautiful beaches and has on-site accommodation comprising of comfortable cottage style
houses. While staying in your own accommodation unit you can enjoy a full Irish breakfast and lunch or dinner in the well - appointed lounge bar and dining room. Philip Walton took the challenge of forging a stern golfing test from the mixture of parkland and links
which is St Helen's - 'Irelands sunniest golf course'. The 17th and 18th holes enjoy a dazzling crescent of beach and sparkling sea which accompany the fairways all the way home. Ryder Cup Winner Philip Walton:-"This 18-Hole championship course provides enormous pleasure to club members and visitors from Ireland and overseas, leaving all who experience St Helen's with a lasting impression."
Index of Courses.
This 18-Hole tree lined course is a lovely Parkland course in Trim less than an hour from Dublin. With gentle fairways and few hills it is a nice test of golf. A number of dog-legs ensure that you are kept guessing as
to the final destination - the green! It starts off with a par three followed by two par fives. You don't see the green from the tee box again until the next par three! The 16th and
17th are index three and one respectively. Tough to negotiate coming to the end of your round. The 18th hole is a fine par five rising up to the clubhouse. Originally opened in 1898 but had to be abandoned as golf still hadn't caught on. The club opened in its current position and size in 1991. At 6,088 metres it isn't the longest course in the country but it does
provide a good test. The clubhouse is an imposing pavilion and you will be sure of a warm welcome from the staff either in the bar or the restaurant.
Index of Courses.
Just outside Courtown in north County Wexford you will find the latest addition to Wexford Golf. This is the very picturesque Seafield Golf & Country Club. With holes running away from the clubhouse in all
directions the clubhouse and new hotel are the centre of attraction. But it is the holes that run down to the sea and along the cliff tops that make this course different. A reasonable par four to start with a daunting drive through the trees to a raised green and you're off!! Down the
hill and across the water to a par five. Now you're starting to think this is an easy course. By the time you climb back up the 18th to the clubhouse you might very well have to rethink that thought!! And what a clubhouse! The views are magnificent! The bar and restaurant with the veranda running all the way around the top offers amazing views. The hotel has been open
recently and promises to be another fine addition to north Wexford golf.
Index of Courses.
Based in the family resort of Rosslare the golf club is over 100 years old. Nestling between the sea and the road there are times you think that you are right out to sea and you would be correct. An easy test as long as the wind doesn't blow!! But this is Rosslare and the wind is never far away. Keep straight and the course is no problem at all (but aren't they all like that??).
Stray off the fairway and you very quickly find out why it is called rough! It's not that they feed it with fertiliser it's just that they don't cut it! A homely clubhouse with excellent cuisine and you have a great mix for your golf. In case you find 18 holes too much they have another course down the road which is only 12 holes in length and has been designed by Christy O'Connor Jnr.
Index of Courses.
Less than an hour North of Dublin this County Meath course is beside the sea. It runs parallel to Bettystown strand and is a true links course. With a fine clubhouse and tennis courts it is a great place to play. Being a true links course means that they never have temporary greens and the land undulates as you would expect. A course that depends on the wind and the rough for it's toughness it is a good test. Coupled with the
other courses around it like Baltray, Seapoint, Navan and Headfort it is a fine place to base your stay and you won't be disappointed with the golf. Best avoided during July and August if you like to have a quiet time!
Index of Courses.
Based in West Wicklow, Rathsallagh Golf Club is a thinking man's golf course. Not for the faint of heart and not for those who like to just take out the driver and give it a blast. Do that and this course will bite you
where it hurts - the scorecard! The fairways have burrens crossing them and it has been beautifully landscaped using the contours of the land and maximising the surrounding vegetation. Don't be surprised by the long walk from
the first green to the second tee - you haven't missed any turn. The 18th is a great test after 17 holes that may have been punishing. The clubhouse overlooks the finishing hole and is set on top of the hill that you climb for the 18th. It has a fine clubhouse with good food. For anyone visiting Wicklow or Kildare they will find this course a great
test of golf and are sure to look back at the round with fond memories.
Index of Courses.
Nestled in North Kildare this course is gentle track and great value for money. There are a number of dog-legs which make it difficult to see where you are going. It requires a visit or two to get to grips with the
layout. Some fine par fives will have wondering how you are going to reach the green in three. Some of the par threes have fine features with a good variety of shots required. With on-site accommodation this is bound to be a hit with golfers both at home and abroad. They have excellent packages for societies and are within easy reach of Dublin Airport and Dublin itself.
Index of Courses.
A classic links course in the seaside resort of Newcastle this is one of the best courses in the world. A bold statement? Not at all! It has played host to some fine
championships and this year, 2007, it will play host to the amateur version of the Ryder Cup the Walker Cup. The fairways are there to be hit but the rough!! Well it's just waiting to grab your ball. You start off with the best of intentions. No drivers off the tees. But by the fifth hole you have to use a driver just to clear the rough in front of the tee! Royal County Down is a great course. It will test every shot that you can make. One word of advice - they have local caddies who they recommend. To really enjoy the
experience you need to have local knowledge and they will help you. For a visitor to Ireland it's a must. For those fortunate enough to live in Ireland grab the opportunity to play when you can.
Greenfees are lowest off season but the course doesn't know that!!
Index of Courses.
Just an hour south of Dublin and an hour and a half from Rosslare lies one of the best kept secrets in Ireland. Carlow Golf course is lying there waiting to take you on!! And take you on it will. It has an easy start with a nice wide par 4 to begin with. Then a tricky par 4. Followed by a seemingly simple par 3. Up the hill to the evil
fourth green. A par 5 next where you have to wait until your third shot to see the green. Another par 3 across the valley and then index 1. Sounds easy!!
It is on a good day. With breath taking views and holes that seem to be kidding you into a false sense of security this is one of the best inland championship courses in Ireland. The clubhouse and staff are warm and friendly which is just as well as the course might not be. It's a great test of golf and one that will always have you saying "what if"? You'll feel that you have to play
it again if only to get that put on the third or was it the chip on the sixth or maybe the drive on the eleventh. You know you can do better and you will - next time!
Index of Courses.
From the outset let me stress that there are two fine golf courses at Headfort. The old course is nice rolling hills with tree lined fairways. The new course..... Well let's
say it's nothing like the old one!! As stated the old course is an excellent design and an enjoyable walk. No pushover
but a nice challenge. No fancy stuff as one of our guys would say. Honest to God golf where you have to pick
your way around. Now the New course. It is right up there with the best of them. It's like a newer version
of Druid's Glen but is not spoken of at all. Each hole makes you think and think again about what shot you are going to play. Just when you think that the course can't go any higher or get any harder - it does! It is a classic test and very much underrated. Before they put the price up -
play it! It's likely to be one of the best tests you will ever get.
Index of Courses.
The locals are full of advice up in Portrush. "If you're more than six feet off the fairway forget it! You've lost your ball". Not what you want to hear before you
go out. But it's not all bad. The views are great and the holes - stunning. Any course that has names like Himalayas, Calamity and a bunker called 'Big Bertha' has to have some good
points. The bunker, by the way, is not a bunker it's a sand dune!! The course is tough but fair. As with any links course you have to be straight or you will be punished! By the
time you have reached the 14th Calamity you should know what to expect. You have to stay right or you will find out why this hole is so called. The next hole is similarly named being called Purgatory. Can only imagine what it must be like to play this on a wet windy day in winter. The clubhouse is warm and inviting and there's always a welcome smile even if it's only in sympathy! A great links course and one to be marked onto any golf holiday.
Index of Courses.
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