Ireland, with its breathtaking landscapes and rich golfing heritage, is home to some of the world’s best golf courses. These hallowed grounds attract avid golfers from around the globe, all seeking the ultimate challenge and the chance to tee off against the backdrop of stunning natural vistas. From the iconic links of Ballybunion to the lush fairways of Royal County Down, the golf courses in Ireland offer a perfect blend of strategy, beauty, and history. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, a round of golf in Ireland is an experience that will leave you in awe. So grab your clubs, soak in the hospitable atmosphere, and get ready for the round of a lifetime.
County Donegal
Ballyliffin Golf Club
Located in the beautiful County Donegal in northwestern Ireland, Ballyliffin Golf Club is a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts. With its stunning natural landscape, dramatic coastal views, and challenging links course, Ballyliffin Golf Club offers a truly unforgettable golfing experience.
The club is home to two championship courses – the Old Links and the Glashedy Links. The Old Links, designed by renowned golf architect Tom Morris, offers a classic links experience with its undulating fairways, hidden bunkers, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. On the other hand, the Glashedy Links, designed by renowned architect Pat Ruddy, is a more challenging course with its narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and strategic layout.
Rosapenna Golf Resort
Nestled on the rugged coastline of County Donegal, Rosapenna Golf Resort is a golf lover’s paradise. With its two championship courses and stunning surroundings, it’s no wonder that this resort is a favorite among golf enthusiasts.
The Old Tom Morris Links, designed by the legendary Old Tom Morris himself, is a classic links course that offers a true test of skill. With its rolling fairways, deep pot bunkers, and challenging greens, this course provides a challenging yet rewarding experience for golfers of all levels.
The Sandy Hills Links, designed by renowned architect Pat Ruddy, is a more modern course with its dramatic elevation changes, daunting bunkers, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. This course demands accurate shot-making and strategic decision-making, making it a favorite among golfers looking for a challenge.
Narin and Portnoo Golf Club
Situated on the picturesque coast of Donegal, Narin and Portnoo Golf Club is a hidden gem that offers a unique and unforgettable golfing experience. This traditional links course boasts stunning views of the rugged Atlantic coastline and the picturesque Narin Beach.
The course features challenging links terrain, with undulating fairways, pot bunkers, and fast greens. Its strategic layout rewards accuracy and shot placement, making it a thrilling and enjoyable course for golfers of all skill levels.
The natural beauty of the surroundings, including the stunning views of Gweebarra Bay and the majestic Bluestack Mountains, adds to the overall charm of Narin and Portnoo Golf Club. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, this course is a must-play when visiting County Donegal.
County Kerry
Tralee Golf Club
Nestled on the stunning coastline of County Kerry, Tralee Golf Club is a golfing paradise that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and challenging gameplay. Designed by renowned golf architect Arnold Palmer, this course is considered one of the best in Ireland.
The course is set against a backdrop of rolling hills, rugged cliffs, and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. With its wide fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens, Tralee Golf Club provides a true test of skill for golfers of all levels.
Aside from its challenging layout, the course also offers breathtaking views of Tralee Bay and the majestic Slieve Mish Mountains. The stunning scenery combined with the excellent course conditions make Tralee Golf Club a must-visit destination for any golfer.
Ballybunion Golf Club
Regarded as one of the finest golf courses in the world, Ballybunion Golf Club in County Kerry is a mecca for golf enthusiasts. With its two championship courses, breathtaking scenery, and rich history, this club promises an unforgettable golfing experience.
The Old Course, dating back to 1893, is a classic links course that has been ranked among the top courses globally. Designed by legendary golf architect Tom Simpson, the Old Course offers a challenging layout with its rolling dunes, deep pot bunkers, and undulating greens. Playing here is like stepping back in time and experiencing the game as it was meant to be played.
The Cashen Course, designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., is a more modern and challenging course. With its dramatic elevation changes, strategic bunkering, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Cashen Course provides a unique playing experience that will test even the most seasoned golfers.
Waterville Golf Links
Located on the breathtaking Ring of Kerry, Waterville Golf Links is a must-visit destination for golfers seeking an unforgettable golfing experience. This championship links course is steeped in history and offers a challenging yet enjoyable round of golf.
Designed by celebrated golf architect Tom Fazio, Waterville Golf Links showcases the natural beauty of its surroundings, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Lough Currane, and nearby Skellig Michael. The course features wide fairways, strategic bunkering, and challenging greens, ensuring that players must use all their skills and strategy to navigate each hole.
The scenic beauty combined with the superb course conditions and friendly atmosphere make Waterville Golf Links a true gem in County Kerry.
County Cork
Old Head Golf Links
Perched on a rugged headland overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Old Head Golf Links in County Cork offers a truly world-class golfing experience. This stunning course is set on a 220-acre peninsula, with nearly two miles of cliff-top fairways and breathtaking views.
Renowned golf architect Ron Kirby, in collaboration with former professional golfers Pádraig Harrington and Ronan Rafferty, designed the course to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The result is a challenging, yet rewarding layout that tests golfers of all skill levels.
With its dramatic cliffs, picturesque lighthouse, and awe-inspiring views of the ocean, playing golf at Old Head is a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an avid golfer or just looking to enjoy the scenery, this course is a must-visit when in County Cork.
Fota Island Resort
Nestled amidst the tranquil woodlands of County Cork, Fota Island Resort offers a unique golfing experience that combines natural beauty with exceptional course design. The resort is home to three championship courses – the Deerpark Course, the Belvelly Course, and the Barryscourt Course.
Designed by renowned golf architect Christy O’Connor Jr., the Deerpark Course is a challenging championship layout that winds its way through mature woodlands and challenging water hazards. The course demands accuracy and strategic shot placement, rewarding golfers who can navigate its challenges.
The Belvelly Course, designed by Jeff Howes, offers a more forgiving playing experience with its wide fairways and generous landing areas. However, the course still presents a challenge with its cleverly placed hazards and undulating greens.
Lastly, the Barryscourt Course, designed by renowned golf architect Peter McEvoy, is a 9-hole layout that provides an enjoyable round of golf for players of all levels. Its scenic setting and well-maintained fairways and greens make it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
With its beautiful surroundings, top-notch amenities, and exceptional courses, Fota Island Resort is a true haven for golfers looking for a memorable golfing experience.
Cork Golf Club
Nestled on Little Island in Cork Harbour, Cork Golf Club is a hidden gem that offers a challenging yet enjoyable round of golf. The course is known for its beautifully designed layout, mature trees, and stunning views of the harbor.
The course was originally designed by renowned architect Alister MacKenzie, who is responsible for designing other world-famous courses such as Augusta National and Cypress Point. The traditional links-style course offers a true test of skill, with its rolling fairways, deep bunkers, and well-manicured greens.
Aside from the excellent course conditions, Cork Golf Club also boasts a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, a round of golf at Cork Golf Club is sure to be a memorable experience.
County Dublin
Portmarnock Golf Club
Located on a picturesque peninsula, just a short drive from Dublin City, Portmarnock Golf Club is a must-visit destination for golfers seeking a world-class golfing experience. The club boasts a rich history and is widely regarded as one of Ireland’s premier links courses.
Designed by renowned architect Bernard Langer, the course offers a challenging yet fair test of golf. With its undulating fairways, strategic bunkering, and fast greens, Portmarnock rewards accurate shot-making and strategic thinking.
The course features stunning views of the Irish Sea and the surrounding coastline, adding to the overall charm and beauty of the experience. The warm and welcoming clubhouse provides a perfect place to relax after a round of golf, and the friendly staff ensure that every golfer feels welcome.
The European Club
Situated on the east coast of Ireland, The European Club is a hidden gem that offers a unique and challenging golfing experience. Designed by renowned golf architect Pat Ruddy, this links course has gained a reputation as one of the most difficult in the country.
Featuring deep pot bunkers, strategically placed hazards, and undulating greens, The European Club demands accuracy and precision from golfers of all levels. The course also offers stunning views of the Irish Sea and the scenic surrounding landscape, adding to the overall allure of the experience.
With its challenging layout, superb course condition, and friendly atmosphere, The European Club is a must-play for any serious golfer seeking an unforgettable golfing experience in County Dublin.
The Island Golf Club
Situated on a narrow strip of links land along the coast of County Dublin, The Island Golf Club is a true hidden gem that offers a unique and challenging round of golf. Designed by Fred Hawtree and Eddie Connaughton, this links course offers a true test for golfers of all skill levels.
The course features undulating fairways, deep pot bunkers, and fast greens, ensuring that accuracy and shot placement are key to a successful round. The natural beauty of the surroundings, with stunning views of the Irish Sea and Lambay Island, adds to the overall charm and appeal of The Island Golf Club.
With its challenging layout, exceptional course conditions, and friendly staff, The Island Golf Club is a must-visit destination for any golfer looking for a memorable golfing experience in County Dublin.
County Clare
Lahinch Golf Club
Nestled on the stunning coastline of County Clare, Lahinch Golf Club is a world-renowned golf destination that offers a unique and challenging golfing experience. With its two championship courses and stunning natural beauty, Lahinch is a dream come true for golf enthusiasts.
The Old Course, designed by the legendary Old Tom Morris, is a classic links course that has stood the test of time. With its rolling fairways, challenging bunkers, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, this course provides a true links golfing experience.
The Castle Course, designed by Dr. Alister MacKenzie, offers a more modern and challenging layout. With its strategic bunkering, undulating greens, and stunning views of Lahinch Bay, the Castle Course provides a thrilling and enjoyable round of golf.
Doonbeg Golf Club
Located on the rugged west coast of County Clare, Doonbeg Golf Club offers a world-class golfing experience. Designed by renowned architect Greg Norman, this links course showcases the natural beauty of its surroundings and offers a challenging yet enjoyable round of golf.
The course features dramatic dune formations, rolling fairways, and challenging greens. Strategic bunkering and water hazards add to the overall challenge, making shot selection and accuracy crucial for success.
Aside from its exceptional course design, Doonbeg Golf Club also boasts luxurious accommodations, top-notch facilities, and world-class hospitality. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, a round of golf at Doonbeg is sure to be a memorable experience.
Ennis Golf Club
Situated in the heart of County Clare, Ennis Golf Club is a hidden gem that offers a challenging yet enjoyable round of golf. Designed by renowned golf architect Eddie Hackett, this parkland course provides a beautiful and serene setting for a day on the greens.
The course features well-manicured fairways, challenging hazards, and fast greens. With its strategic layout and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, Ennis Golf Club provides a memorable golfing experience for players of all levels.
The warm and welcoming clubhouse provides a perfect place to relax after a round, and the friendly staff ensure that every visitor feels at home. Whether you’re a local golfer or a visitor to County Clare, Ennis Golf Club is a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast.
Northwest Ireland
Sligo Golf Club
Situated on the stunning Sligo coastline, Sligo Golf Club is a hidden gem that offers a unique and challenging golfing experience. Designed by famous architect Harry Colt, this links course provides a true test of skill and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby Benbulbin.
The course features undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and challenging greens, requiring accurate shot-making and strategic thinking. The natural beauty of the surroundings combined with the serene atmosphere adds to the overall appeal of Sligo Golf Club.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, a round of golf at Sligo Golf Club is sure to be a memorable experience.
County Sligo Golf Club
Located in Rosses Point, County Sligo Golf Club is a hidden gem that offers a challenging round of golf amidst stunning natural beauty. The course, designed by Harry Colt and renowned golf architect Martin Hawtree, provides a unique blend of traditional links golf and modern course design.
The course features undulating fairways, strategic bunkering, and challenging greens, ensuring that accuracy and strategy are key to a successful round. The picturesque views of Sligo Bay and the surrounding countryside add to the overall charm and beauty of County Sligo Golf Club.
With its challenging yet enjoyable layout and warm hospitality, County Sligo Golf Club is a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast visiting the Northwest region of Ireland.
Enniscrone Golf Club
Located on the picturesque coastline of County Sligo, Enniscrone Golf Club is a true hidden gem that offers a unique and challenging golfing experience. Designed by renowned golf architect Eddie Hackett, this links course offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and provides a captivating round of golf.
The course features undulating fairways, deep pot bunkers, and challenging greens, demanding accuracy and strategic shot-making from golfers. The breathtaking natural surroundings and serene atmosphere add to the overall allure of Enniscrone Golf Club.
With its exceptional course conditions, warm hospitality, and breathtaking views, a round of golf at Enniscrone is a must for any golfer seeking an unforgettable experience in Northwest Ireland.
County Meath
The K Club
Located on the outskirts of Dublin in County Meath, The K Club is a world-renowned golf destination that offers a truly luxurious and memorable golfing experience. Home to two championship courses, the Palmer Ryder Cup Course and the Smurfit Course, The K Club guarantees an exceptional round of golf.
The Palmer Ryder Cup Course, designed by legendary golfer Arnold Palmer, is a challenging layout that has hosted the Ryder Cup in 2006. With its tree-lined fairways, well-placed hazards, and fast greens, this course demands accuracy and strategic shot-making.
The Smurfit Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., is a more forgiving yet equally enjoyable course. With its wide fairways, majestic trees, and stunning views of the River Liffey, the Smurfit Course provides an enjoyable round for golfers of all levels.
In addition to its exceptional courses, The K Club also offers luxurious accommodations, top-notch facilities, and world-class dining options. Whether you’re a serious golfer or just looking to enjoy a relaxing round, a visit to The K Club is sure to exceed your expectations.
Royal Tara Golf Club
Located in the scenic countryside of County Meath, Royal Tara Golf Club is a picturesque parkland course that offers a memorable round of golf. Designed by famed golf architect JB Carr, the course provides a blend of natural beauty and challenging gameplay.
The course features beautifully manicured fairways, strategically placed hazards, and challenging greens, making it a true test of skill. The scenic surroundings, with views of the nearby Hill of Tara and surrounding farmland, add to the overall charm and appeal of Royal Tara Golf Club.
Whether you’re a local golfer or a visitor to County Meath, a round of golf at Royal Tara is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Royal County Down Golf Club
Ranked consistently among the top golf courses in the world, The Royal County Down Golf Club in County Meath offers a truly extraordinary golfing experience. With its stunning natural beauty, challenging links course, and rich history, this club is a dream come true for golf enthusiasts.
Designed by legendary golf architect George Combe, the course is nestled in the shadow of the majestic Mourne Mountains and offers breathtaking views of the Irish Sea. The layout features narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens, demanding accuracy and strategy from golfers of all levels.
Aside from its exceptional course, The Royal County Down Golf Club also offers luxurious amenities, including a charming clubhouse, top-notch facilities, and world-class dining options. Whether you’re a serious golfer or just looking to enjoy the beauty of the Irish countryside, a visit to The Royal County Down Golf Club is a truly unforgettable experience.
County Antrim
Portstewart Golf Club
Perched on the stunning north coast of County Antrim, Portstewart Golf Club offers a world-class golfing experience that combines natural beauty with exceptional course design. This championship links course is known for its dramatic dunes, panoramic views, and challenging gameplay.
The course features three distinctive sections – the Strand Course, the Riverside Course, and the Old Course. The Strand Course, designed by Des Griffin, is a breathtaking and challenging layout that winds its way through towering dunes and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Riverside Course, also designed by Des Griffin, offers a more forgiving playing experience with its wide fairways and generous landing areas. However, the course still provides a challenge with its well-placed hazards and undulating greens.
The Old Course, dating back to 1889, is a classic links layout that has withstood the test of time. With its strategic bunkers, fast greens, and spectacular views, the Old Course offers a truly memorable round of golf.
Royal Portrush Golf Club
Located on the scenic Causeway Coast in County Antrim, Royal Portrush Golf Club is a world-renowned golf destination that offers an exceptional golfing experience. The club’s Dunluce Links course is widely regarded as one of the best in the world.
Designed by renowned golf architect Harry Colt, the course features stunning ocean views, towering dunes, and challenging gameplay. The layout demands accurate shot-making, strategic thinking, and precise club selection, making it a true test for even the most skilled golfers.
In 2019, Royal Portrush Golf Club hosted The Open Championship, solidifying its reputation as one of the premier golf courses in the world. The club’s warm hospitality, top-notch facilities, and picturesque surroundings further add to the overall appeal of Royal Portrush.
Galgorm Castle Golf Club
Located in the picturesque Ballymena area of County Antrim, Galgorm Castle Golf Club offers a truly unforgettable golfing experience. The championship parkland course is designed by renowned golf architect Simon Gidman and provides a stunning backdrop of the historic Galgorm Castle.
The course features beautifully manicured fairways, challenging water hazards, and pristine greens, demanding accuracy and strategic play. The rolling countryside and scenic woodland that surrounds the course create a serene and idyllic setting for a round of golf.
In addition to the exceptional course, Galgorm Castle Golf Club also offers luxurious accommodations, top-notch facilities, and a warm and friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, a visit to Galgorm Castle is sure to be a memorable experience.
County Limerick
Adare Manor Golf Resort
Located in the heart of County Limerick, Adare Manor Golf Resort is a true golfer’s paradise that offers a luxurious and unforgettable golfing experience. Designed by renowned golf architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., this championship course provides a unique blend of natural beauty and challenging gameplay.
The course winds its way through the magnificent Adare Manor Estate, offering stunning views of the picturesque surroundings. With its undulating fairways, strategically placed hazards, and meticulously manicured greens, Adare Manor Golf Resort demands accuracy and precision from golfers.
Aside from the exceptional course, the resort also offers luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining options, and world-class facilities. A visit to Adare Manor Golf Resort promises a truly luxurious and memorable golfing experience.
Limerick County Golf and Country Club
Located in Ballyneety, County Limerick, Limerick County Golf and Country Club is a hidden gem that offers a challenging yet enjoyable round of golf. Designed by renowned golf architect Eddie Hackett, the course provides a unique blend of links and parkland features.
The course features beautifully designed fairways, strategically placed water hazards, and well-manicured greens. The picturesque countryside and scenic surroundings add to the overall appeal and beauty of Limerick County Golf and Country Club.
Whether you’re a local golfer or a visitor to County Limerick, a round of golf at this club is sure to be a memorable experience.
Newcastle West Golf Club
Located in the scenic town of Newcastle West, County Limerick, the Newcastle West Golf Club offers a challenging round of golf amidst stunning natural beauty. Designed by renowned golf architect Eddie Hackett, this parkland course provides a peaceful and picturesque setting for a day on the fairways.
The course features well-manicured fairways, strategically placed hazards, and challenging greens. The natural beauty of the surroundings, with its rolling hills and mature trees, adds to the overall charm of Newcastle West Golf Club.
With its exceptional course conditions, warm hospitality, and breathtaking views, a round of golf at Newcastle West is sure to leave a lasting impression.
County Sligo
Strandhill Golf Club
Located on the stunning west coast of County Sligo, Strandhill Golf Club offers a scenic and challenging round of golf in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The course is nestled among the sand dunes of Strandhill Beach and provides breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The course features undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and challenging greens, ensuring that accurate shot-making and strategic thinking are crucial for success. The natural beauty of the surroundings, with its rolling hills and expansive beach, adds to the overall charm and appeal of Strandhill Golf Club.
Whether you’re a local golfer or a visitor to County Sligo, a round of golf at this club is sure to be a memorable experience.
County Sligo Golf Club
Situated on the scenic Rosses Point peninsula, County Sligo Golf Club is a hidden gem that offers a challenging round of golf amidst stunning natural beauty. Designed by renowned golf architect Harry Colt, this links course provides a unique and enjoyable golfing experience.
The course features undulating fairways, deep pot bunkers, and challenging greens, demanding accuracy and strategic shot-making. The stunning ocean views, the picturesque Benbulbin mountain, and the serene atmosphere create a truly special setting for a round of golf.
With its exceptional course conditions, warm hospitality, and breathtaking views, a visit to County Sligo Golf Club is a must for any golfer seeking an unforgettable experience in County Sligo.
Sligo Creek Golf Course
Located in the heart of Sligo town, Sligo Creek Golf Course offers a challenging yet enjoyable round of golf for players of all levels. This parkland course provides a perfect setting for golfers looking to relax and enjoy a day on the greens.
The course features well-manicured fairways, strategically placed hazards, and forgiving greens. The serene atmosphere and friendly staff add to the overall appeal of Sligo Creek Golf Course.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, a round of golf at this course is sure to be a memorable experience.
With its rich golfing heritage, stunning natural beauty, and exceptional course designs, it’s no wonder that Ireland is known for having some of the best golf courses in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, a visit to any of these golf courses in County Donegal, County Kerry, County Cork, County Dublin, County Clare, Northwest Ireland, County Meath, County Antrim, or County Limerick promises an unforgettable golfing experience. So grab your clubs and get ready to tee off in the Emerald Isle!
