Ireland offers some of the best golf resorts in the world. The Emerald Isle boasts stunning courses set against breathtaking landscapes, perfect for golf lovers seeking a memorable holiday. From luxury estates to hidden gems, Ireland’s golf resorts cater to all skill levels and budgets.
You’ll find top-class golf resorts scattered across Ireland. Adare Manor in Limerick stands out as a prime choice, with its lavish 840-acre estate and world-class course. Other notable options include Druids Glen in County Wicklow, often called the ‘Augusta of Ireland’, and Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg.
Irish golf resorts offer more than just great courses. Many feature spa facilities, fine dining, and cosy accommodations. You can enjoy the famous Irish hospitality while playing on some of the most beautiful courses in Europe. Whether you’re planning a golf trip with friends or a family holiday, Ireland’s golf resorts promise an unforgettable stay.
The Grandeur of Golf Resorts in Ireland
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Ireland’s golf resorts blend stunning landscapes with world-class courses and luxurious stays. These iconic sites offer unforgettable rounds and top-tier amenities for golfers of all levels.
Adare Manor: Luxury Meets Legacy
According to golfbreaksportugal.com, Adare Manor stands as a crown jewel among Irish golf resorts. This lavish 840-acre estate in County Limerick boasts a championship course redesigned by Tom Fazio. The course features subtly undulating greens and strategically placed bunkers.
The manor house itself is a marvel of neo-Gothic architecture. Its 104 rooms and suites showcase opulent decor and modern comforts. You’ll find fine dining options, a spa, and activities like falconry on the grounds.
Adare Manor has hosted the Irish Open and is set to welcome the Ryder Cup in 2027. This prestigious event will cement its place among the world’s elite golf venues.
The K Club: A Ryder Cup Venue
The K Club, nestled in County Kildare, offers two championship courses designed by Arnold Palmer. The Ryder Cup Course, which hosted the 2006 event, presents a stern test with its links-style layout and water hazards.
The resort’s hotel, housed in a restored 19th-century mansion, provides elegant rooms and suites. You can unwind in the spa, enjoy fine Irish cuisine, or try your hand at fishing in the River Liffey.
The K Club’s blend of challenging golf and luxury amenities makes it a favourite among golf travellers. Its rich history and beautiful setting add to its allure.
Dromoland Castle: Royal Golf Experience
Dromoland Castle in County Clare combines regal heritage with modern golf. The 18-hole parkland course winds through the estate’s ancient woodlands and alongside its lake.
The castle itself dates back to the 16th century and now serves as a five-star hotel. Its rooms feature antique furnishings and modern luxuries. You can dine in the Earl of Thomond restaurant or enjoy afternoon tea in the drawing room.
Dromoland’s golf academy offers state-of-the-art technology to help improve your game. The resort’s falconry school and spa provide relaxing alternatives off the course.
Royal Portrush: A Northern Jewel
Royal Portrush, located on the north coast of Northern Ireland, is home to the renowned Dunluce Links. This challenging course has hosted The Open Championship twice, most recently in 2019.
The course offers stunning views of the Irish Sea and the ruins of Dunluce Castle. Its windswept dunes and tricky greens have tested the world’s best golfers.
While not a traditional resort, Royal Portrush partners with nearby hotels to offer golf packages. The area’s rugged beauty and the course’s championship pedigree make it a must-visit for serious golfers.
Portmarnock Hotel: Where History Meets The Sea
Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links sits on the site of the Jameson family’s former home in County Dublin. The links course, designed by Bernhard Langer, offers a true test of golf along the Irish Sea.
The hotel provides comfortable rooms with sea views and modern amenities. Its spa and fitness centre help you relax after a round. You can dine at the Seaview restaurant or enjoy a pint at the Jameson Bar.
Portmarnock’s proximity to Dublin makes it an ideal base for exploring the city. Its blend of seaside golf and Irish hospitality creates a memorable stay for all guests.
Revel in Championship Golf Courses
Ireland boasts amazing golf courses that have hosted major tournaments. These links offer challenging play and stunning views.
Mount Juliet Estate: Jack Nicklaus Masterpiece
Mount Juliet Estate has a golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus. The course opened in 1991 and has held big events like the Irish Open. You’ll find wide fairways and tricky greens here. The course winds through 180 acres of rolling Irish countryside.
Trees line many holes, adding to the challenge. Water comes into play on several holes too. The par-72 layout stretches to 7,264 yards from the back tees. But don’t worry – there are five tee boxes on each hole to suit all skill levels.
After your round, you can relax in the clubhouse. It has great food and drinks with views of the 18th green.
Old Head of Kinsale: Picturesque Golfing
Old Head sits on a rocky headland jutting into the Atlantic Ocean. The views here are simply stunning. You’ll see waves crashing on cliffs far below as you play.
The course opened in 1997. It was laid out by a team that included Ron Kirby and Paddy Merrigan. Nine holes play along the cliff tops, with all 18 having ocean views.
The par-72 course measures 7,159 yards from the tips. But the ever-present wind makes it play longer. The 12th hole is a standout – a par 5 with the ocean all along the right side.
Old Head has a lighthouse that dates to the 17th century. It’s a cool sight as you make your way around the course.
Doonbeg: Trump’s Irish Legacy
Doonbeg sits on Doughmore Bay in County Clare. The course opened in 2002 and was designed by Greg Norman. In 2014, Donald Trump bought the resort and renamed it Trump International Golf Links & Hotel Ireland.
The course has massive sand dunes and stunning Atlantic Ocean views. You’ll find deep pot bunkers and firm, fast-running fairways. It’s a true links test.
The par-72 layout can stretch to 7,026 yards. But five sets of tees make it playable for all. The short par-3 14th is a highlight. It’s just 111 yards, but the green sits atop a sand dune with the sea behind.
Doonbeg’s clubhouse is built to look like an old Irish castle. It’s a great spot for a post-round pint.
Druids Glen: The Augusta of Europe
Druids Glen has earned the nickname “The Augusta of Europe”. The course opened in 1995 and was designed by Pat Ruddy and Tom Craddock. It’s set in the Wicklow Mountains south of Dublin.
You’ll find lots of colour here, with many flower beds around the course. Water comes into play on 8 holes. The par-71 layout measures 7,046 yards from the back tees.
Druids Glen has hosted the Irish Open four times. The par-3 12th hole is famous for its garden setting. It has over 12,000 plants and shrubs.
The resort has a second course too – Druids Heath. It offers links-style play with mountain and sea views.
Stay in Style: Accommodation and Amenities
Ireland’s golf resorts offer luxurious rooms, top-quality spas, and stunning views. You’ll find comfort and elegance at these properties, whether you’re relaxing after a round or enjoying a full holiday.
Rosapenna: Comfort Amidst the Dunes
Rosapenna sits nestled among sandy dunes in County Donegal. The hotel rooms have sea or golf course views. You can choose from classic or modern styling.
The spa uses seaweed-based treatments. It has a swimming pool and hot tub.
After your round, you can dine at the restaurant. It serves local seafood and Irish beef. The bar stocks Irish whiskeys and craft beers.
Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. There’s also a gym if you want to work out.
Fota Island Resort: Serenity and Swings
Fota Island Resort sits on a peaceful island in Cork Harbour. The bedrooms are bright and airy. Many have balconies looking out over the golf courses.
The spa is a highlight. It has a hydrotherapy pool and thermal suites. You can book massages and facials.
There are three restaurants on-site. The Fota Restaurant does fine dining. The Amber Lounge is more casual. The Spike Bar is perfect for a post-round pint.
The resort also has tennis courts and a driving range. Kids can enjoy the playground and games room.
Carton House: Modern Luxury, Historic Walls
Carton House blends old and new near Dublin. The main building dates to the 1700s. Newer wings have modern rooms.
The spa uses ESPA products. It has an indoor pool and steam room. You can also book fitness classes.
There are three places to eat. The Carriage House does steaks and seafood. The Kathleen’s Kitchen serves all-day fare. The Clubhouse is great for a quick bite.
The hotel has bikes you can borrow. There’s also a cinema room for rainy days.
Powerscourt Hotel: Elegance in the Garden of Ireland
Powerscourt Hotel sits in County Wicklow, called the Garden of Ireland. Rooms have mountain or garden views. Marble bathrooms add a touch of luxury.
The ESPA spa is world-class. It has a Swarovski crystal-lit pool. You can also use the sauna and steam rooms.
Sika Restaurant does modern Irish cuisine. McGills is a cosy pub with live music. The Sugar Loaf Lounge does afternoon tea.
The hotel offers guided walks in the Wicklow Mountains. You can also try falconry or horse riding nearby.
Irish Delights: Dining Options and Cuisine
Ireland’s golf resorts offer more than just great courses. They serve up tasty food that shows off Irish cooking. You’ll find fancy meals and simple pub grub, all made with fresh local ingredients.
Dine at Dromoland: A Feast Fit for Royalty
Dromoland Castle’s restaurants give you a royal treat. The Earl of Thomond is their posh spot. Chefs use Irish beef, fish, and veggies to make fancy dishes. Try the roast lamb with wild garlic.
For a casual bite, head to The Gallery. It’s got comfy seats and nice views. You can get sandwiches, salads, and Irish stew here. Don’t miss their afternoon tea with scones and jam.
The Fig Tree Restaurant in the golf clubhouse is great after a round. They do a mean full Irish breakfast. For lunch, their fish and chips are top-notch.
Locally Sourced at Lough Erne Resort
Lough Erne Resort takes pride in using local food. Their Catalina Restaurant has won awards for its cooking. The menu changes with the seasons. You might find Fermanagh lamb or Kilkeel crab.
The Loughside Bar & Grill is more laid-back. It’s got a nice patio where you can eat while looking at the lake. Their burgers are really good. They use beef from nearby farms.
For a quick snack, try The Halfway House. It’s right on the golf course. You can grab a bacon roll or a bowl of soup between holes.
Gourmet Getaways at Castlemartyr Resort
Castlemartyr Resort has several spots to eat. The Bell Tower is their main restaurant. It’s in an old chapel with high ceilings. The food is modern Irish. You might have Cork beef or Ballycotton seafood.
Franchini’s is their Italian place. They make fresh pasta and wood-fired pizzas. It’s a hit with families.
The Knight’s Bar is cosy for a drink and a snack. They do great club sandwiches and fish cakes. In summer, eat on the terrace and watch the sun set.
Ashford Castle: Michelin-Starred Meals
Ashford Castle is home to some of Ireland’s best food. The George V Dining Room has a Michelin star. You’ll need to dress up for dinner here. The tasting menu is amazing. It shows off the best Irish ingredients.
For something more casual, try Cullen’s at the Cottage. It’s in a thatched cottage near the golf course. They do comfort food like shepherd’s pie and fish and chips.
The Dungeon is fun for dinner. It’s in the castle’s old cellars. The menu has Irish classics with a twist. Try the seafood chowder or the venison.
The Links Legacy: Ireland’s Breathtaking Courses
Ireland’s links courses offer golfers stunning seaside landscapes and challenging play. These historic grounds blend natural beauty with world-class golf.
Royal County Down: Golf Amidst Untamed Beauty
Royal County Down sits along Dundrum Bay in Northern Ireland. The Championship Links, designed in 1889, winds through dunes and heather. Narrow fairways and “bearded” bunkers test your skills.
The course offers views of the Mourne Mountains. Its blind shots and uneven terrain make for an exciting round. Golf Digest ranked it the world’s best course outside the US in 2023.
The club has two 18-hole courses. The Annesley Links provides a shorter, less demanding option. Both courses let you play where golf legends have competed.
Lahinch Golf Club: Links Tradition
Lahinch Golf Club in County Clare dates back to 1892. Old Tom Morris laid out the original course. It hugs the Atlantic coastline, offering sea views and bracing winds.
The Old Course features unique holes like the “Dell” and “Klondyke”. These blind shots add fun and challenge to your game. The course has hosted many top events, including the Irish Open.
Lahinch’s exposed setting means weather can change quickly. Be ready for sun, rain, and wind – often in the same round. The varied conditions add to the links golf charm.
Ballyliffin: Ireland’s Northern Crown
Ballyliffin Golf Club sits at the tip of the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal. It boasts two championship links courses: the Old Links and Glashedy Links.
The Old Links, dating to 1947, follows natural contours through dunes. Glashedy, opened in 1995, offers a modern links test. Both courses provide views of the North Atlantic and Glashedy Rock.
Ballyliffin hosted the 2018 Irish Open. The event showcased the club’s quality and beauty to a global audience. Its remote location adds to the sense of golfing adventure.
Enniscrone: Wild Atlantic Way Golf
Enniscrone Golf Club in County Sligo offers links golf along the Wild Atlantic Way. The Championship Course, designed by Eddie Hackett, opened in 1974.
The course weaves through massive dunes, some over 50 feet high. These provide drama and challenge, with elevated tees and hidden greens. Sea views and the Ox Mountains form a stunning backdrop.
Enniscrone’s layout rewards accurate play. The wind off Killala Bay adds another layer of difficulty. After your round, you can enjoy the clubhouse’s warm welcome and panoramic views.
The Essence of Irish Golf: Culture and Heritage
Irish golf blends sporting excellence with rich cultural traditions. The Emerald Isle’s courses offer more than just fairways and greens – they’re steeped in history and charm.
Explore the Home of Golfing Legends
Ireland has produced many great golfers. Rory McIlroy, Padraig Harrington, and Graeme McDowell all honed their skills on Irish soil. These players learned the game on local courses, from seaside links to inland parklands.
You can walk in their footsteps at famous sites like Portrush and Portmarnock. These courses shaped the talents of future champions. They offer tough tests with stunning views.
Irish golf clubs often have walls lined with photos and trophies. These tell the stories of local heroes who made it big. You might even bump into a pro at the clubhouse bar!
Traditions and Tournaments: Ireland’s Rich History
The Irish Open is a key event on the European Tour. It’s been played since 1927 at different courses across the country. The tournament attracts top players from around the world.
Ireland’s golf history goes back even further. Many clubs were founded in the late 1800s. They’ve kept old traditions alive, like formal dress codes and proper etiquette.
Some Irish courses have hosted major championships. The Open returned to Northern Ireland in 2019 at Royal Portrush. It was a huge success, showcasing Irish golf to millions.
Cultural Tee-Off: Golf Amidst Irish Heritage
Playing golf in Ireland is about more than just the game. You’re surrounded by centuries of history and culture. Many courses are near ancient castles or ruins.
St. Patrick’s Links in Donegal sits by early Christian sites. You might spot old stone crosses as you play. The course design respects these historical features.
Irish golf clubs often have strong ties to their local communities. They host events and fundraisers. Members take pride in their club’s role in local life.
The ’19th hole’ is a big part of Irish golf culture. It’s where you chat about your round over a pint of Guinness. You’ll find warm Irish hospitality in every clubhouse.
The Golf Trip of a Lifetime
An Irish golf holiday offers unique joys. You can play world-class courses and soak up the local culture. Many visitors mix golf with sightseeing and pub visits.
Ireland’s small size means you can easily play several top courses. You might tee off at a links in the morning and an inland course in the afternoon.
The changeable Irish weather adds spice to your rounds. You might face all four seasons in one day. It’s part of the challenge and charm of Irish golf.
Planning is key for a great Irish golf trip. Book tee times well in advance for popular courses. Consider hiring a local guide to get the most from your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ireland offers many great golf resorts for different tastes and needs. Here’s some helpful info about top spots around the country.
What are some top golf resorts for a romantic getaway in Ireland?
Adare Manor in Limerick is a lovely choice for couples. This posh estate has a championship course and luxury rooms. The K Club near Dublin is another nice option. It has two courses and a spa for relaxing together.
Where can you find the best golf resorts in Southern Ireland?
The south has several good golf resorts. Fota Island Resort in Cork has three 18-hole courses. Dromoland Castle in Clare mixes golf with a fancy castle hotel. Old Head Golf Links in Cork sits on cliffs above the sea.
Can you recommend some golf resorts close to Dublin?
You’ll find nice golf spots near Dublin. The Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links is just north of the city. Druids Glen in Wicklow is under an hour’s drive south. Both have great courses and comfy hotels.
What’s the scoop on the top-rated golf resorts throughout Ireland?
Ireland has many highly-rated golf resorts. Ballybunion in Kerry is known for its links courses. Trump International in Doonbeg, Clare offers seaside golf. Mount Juliet in Kilkenny has a Jack Nicklaus course and a posh hotel.
Are there any notable golfing destinations in Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland has some cracking golf spots. Royal County Down is often called one of the world’s best courses. The Lough Erne Resort in Fermanagh has a Nick Faldo course. Portstewart Golf Club has three links courses by the sea.
Got any tips for the ultimate golf trip in Ireland?
Plan your trip for May to September for the best weather. Book tee times well in advance for popular courses. Try to play a mix of parkland and links courses. Hire a driver to enjoy the scenery between rounds. Pack layers and rain gear, as Irish weather can be changeable.
Conclusion
Ireland’s golf resorts offer something special for every player. You’ll find world-class courses set against stunning landscapes. From coastal links to parkland layouts, the variety is impressive.
Many resorts boast luxury accommodations and top-notch amenities. You can relax in style after your round. Spas, fine dining, and other activities round out the holiday.
Some standout options include:
- Adare Manor: A lavish estate with a championship course
- Druids Glen: Known as the “Augusta of Ireland”
- Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg: Seaside links with amazing views
When planning your trip, consider:
- Booking tee times well in advance
- Packing for changeable weather
- Hiring a caddie for local knowledge
Ireland’s golf resorts blend natural beauty, challenging play, and warm hospitality. You’re sure to create lasting memories on and off the course.