The East Coast
Portmarnock Golf Club, County Dublin
Golfing legend Tiger Woods called Portmarnock Golf Club “one of the most enjoyable links courses I’ve ever had the opportunity to play” and who are we to argue? This renowned natural links course is a test of accuracy and bravery that’s sure to challenge even the most experienced golfers.
The European Club, Brittas Bay, County Wicklow
The 20-hole European Club is a large links course located just south of Dublin on the Wicklow coast. Notable for its varied holes, undulating greens and formidable bunkers, you’ll always have a round of exhilarating golf.
The Southwest
Waterville Golf Links, County Kerry
With over 130 years of golfing history, Waterville Golf Links combines the beauty of the Ring of Kerry with a championship links course that’s as good as any you’ll ever play. Three time PGA Championship winner Sam Snead famously described it as a “beautiful monster – one of the golfing wonders of the world”.
Ballybunion Golf Club, County Kerry
Spanish golfing icon Seve Ballesteros once called Ballybunion Golf Club “a piece of art” and like any good art, this course will challenge and inspire you. This is a majestic course that thoroughly deserves to be mentioned in any conversations about the best courses in the world.
Tralee Golf Club, County Kerry
Local folklore says that golfing all-time-great Arnold Palmer created the first nine and nature did the rest at Tralee Golf Club. Palmer himself insisted the location was “ideally suited” to a golf course. This captivating links course takes in soaring dunes, par-breaking ravines and a coastal location that’s a feast for the eyes.
Old Head Golf Links, Kinsale, County Cork
Built on a headland that extends for two miles into the Atlantic, Old Head’s spectacular setting alone is worth the green fees. Framed by dramatic seaside cliffs, this course will test your skills to the limit and you’ll fall in love with its wild beauty.
The West Coast
Lahinch Golf Club, County Clare
The Old Course at Lahinch Golf Club needs no introduction. Known as the St. Andrews of Ireland, it combines enchanting sea views with a rugged links landscape and some truly unforgettable holes. Keep an eye out for its famous goats – they’re regularly spotted chewing on the long grass atop the dunes on the course.
Trump International Golf Links, Doonbeg, County Clare
Built by Greg Norman, the impressive Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg is nestled in among 100-foot tall sand dunes and it makes the most of the landscape’s natural contours. Judging the wind can pose a problem for visiting golfers but it ensures that no two rounds on this course are ever the same.
The Golf Course at Adare Manor, County Limerick
The 7,453-yard course at Adare Manor has a host of natural features and water hazards to overcome making it look and play unlike any other Irish course. A recent revamp updated the famous course, but it remains a unique venue that easily stands out from the crowd.
With so many outstanding golf courses to choose from, the only question now is which one are you going to try first? Check out our Things to Do page and get planning your bucket list golfing holiday in Ireland.
