Gougane Barra has links back to Saint Finbarr, who is said to have built a monastery on an island in the lake nearby during the 6th century.
The South of Ireland is one of the most scenic parts of the country with rolling hills, green pastures and stunning lakes offering unmatched beauty. Some of Ireland’s greatest links can be found along the stunning coastline where you can enjoy the spectacular Old Head near Kinsale, the hidden gem of Dooks overlooking Dingle Bay or the historical classic Ballybunion.
Old Head is a remarkably dramatic piece of Ireland, protruding more than two miles into the Atlantic Ocean.
If you want to experience spectacular coastal scenery, breathtaking mountain landscapes, ancient monuments and the tranquil old-world-charm then make sure you visit the Lakes of Killarney, the stunning Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry, one of the most famous drives in Ireland.
At the foot of the McGillycuddy’s Reeks nestle the world famous Lakes of Killarney.
Once you review the below golf courses and hotels, please Request a Quote from one of our golf travel specialists.
GOLF COURSES
BALLYBUNION (Old Course): Arguably Ireland’s most admired and distinguished links course. The Old Course, well over a century old, is as pure a links course as there is in the world. The course was designed using the existing links land and massive dunes without the need for artificially created challenges and hazards. The Old Course constantly ranks as one of the world’s top ten courses. In the opinion of the legendary Tom Watson, it is ‘the best in the world’. The Cashen Course, created by Robert Trent Jones, is a worthy compliment.
BALLYBUNION (Cashen Course): The adjacent Cashen Course takes its name from the River Cashen, which flows out to the Atlantic Ocean nearby. This Par 72 (6,306 yards) course, continues to grow in popularity and was nominated as one of the top 100 courses in the world by Golf Magazine. Designed by Robert Trent-Jones, this links course is unlike any other to be seen. There are no two holes remotely alike in this mixture of maram grass and sand hills. This course is more about positional golf than length, even though it has a 612 yard (560 metre) par 5. There are plenty of undulating greens to test putting skills.
DOONBEG: For more than 100 years, people have talked about a piece of land near the town of Doonbeg, Ireland, where nature created its own golf course. The land is made up of rolling hills, high on the cliffs along the Irish coast but flat enough that all that was needed to create a world-class golf course was to lay out the holes and mow the fairways. When Greg Norman agreed to be the golf architect for this extraordinary site he described it as “…the perfect golf links terrain”. On his first visit to the site in November 1997, the Irish press reported his reaction: “I am almost speechless. I have never seen a piece of land like this in all my travels. I didn’t know such a piece of property existed any more.”
Doonbeg was voted in the Top 100 Courses in the World 2010 by Golf Magazine.
LAHINCH (Old Course): Originally laid out by Old Tom Morris, and later revised by Alister Mackenzie, Lahinch holds a prominent place in golfing history. The course is characterized by numerous blind shots through the coastline dunes.
TRALEE: The present course, opened in 1984, was designed by Arnold Palmer. Palmer, with the benefit of an absolutely stunning piece of land, has created a classic links course that has the feel of a much older layout. Many say that the back nine here is amongst the finest in Ireland.
KILLARNEY GOLF & FISHING CLUB: The Killeen and Mahoney’s Point courses, while not links designs, are two of Ireland’s greatest golf tracks. In fact, the club hosted the1990 and 1991 Irish Opens. The courses parallel the banks of the Lakes of Killarney in the shadows of Macgillicuddy’s Reeks – Ireland’s highest mountains. Killarney -Killeen has also recently undergone a multi million euro re-design and upgrade.
OLD HEAD OF KINSALE: Only opened in 1997, Old Head has quickly become one of the most praised links courses in the world. Old Head enjoys probably the most spectacular setting in golf. Located high on the bluffs of a three mile long peninsula, Old Head offers unmatched beauty and a challenging golf experience.
WATERVILLE: Located on the famous Ring of Kerry, Waterville is a golfer’s pleasure combining natural beauty with a thoughtful and challenging design. A regular stop for the US golfers preparing for the British Open each year.
Waterville is rated among the top 5 courses in Ireland and the top 20 links courses in the world.
SKELLIG BAY: The dream for the new golf course at Waterville goes back over the years to a friendship that was established during the construction of the Old Head Golf Links in Kinsale. It was here that Ron Kirby met and worked together as designer and contractor to create one of Golf’s great experiences.
DOOKS: A somewhat less well known yet outstanding links course. The narrow fairways and small greens require the golfer to be both accurate off the tee and with approach shots. Golf has been played at Dooks since 1889. The golf course is set out on one of three stretches of sand dunes at the head of Dingle Bay. As one golf journalist put it “Dooks is maybe the loveliest little golf club in the world. Certainly I have never been more totally surrounded by superb scenery than at Dooks.”
RING OF KERRY: As Kerry’s foremost golfing experience, the Ring of Kerry Golf & Country Club sits majestically overlooking spectacular Kenmare Bay. This 18 hole, par-71 world-class, golf course nestles between the towering majesty of the MacGillycuddy Reeks and the Caha mountains and enjoys an unspoilt view of one of the most panoramic scenes to be found on any golf course in Ireland.
ADARE: Opened in 1995 and recently announced as the venue for the Irish Open for 2007 – 2009, the Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed layout is an exquisite parkland atmosphere of the area has been preserved and the course is set amid magnificent mature trees. The course has three lakes, including a 14 acre lake anchoring the front nine. The Maigue River meanders through the back nine creating a sense of beauty and challenge, particularly on the 11th par 3 and the 18th par 5 finishing hole. The course has four tees on every hole with a championship yardage of 7,138 declining to 5,082 yards.
FOTA ISLAND: A gem designed by Christy O’Connor, Jnr. and Peter McEvoy. Site of the 2001 & 2002 Irish Opens it’s pedigree is without question. A parkland design with many ‘links’ touches such as the pot bunkers and a double green. Many holes offer a water view out towards historic Cobh (the Titanic’s last stop) and the port of Cork.
CORK: The large undulating greens at Cork Golf Club immediately put the more observant in mind of Augusta National, the revered home of the Masters. Of course there is a very good reason for this. Alistair Mackenzie was the designer of both. Founded in 1888, and redesigned in 1927 by Mackenzie, this championship parkland course is as graceful and mature as it’s age would suggest. Scenically situated in Cork Harbor, the club has played host to major amateur and professional tournaments over the years, including the Irish Open, the Irish Professional Championships and the Irish Close Championships.
CEANN SIBEAL (DINGLE): This traditional Championship Links is the most westerly golf course in Europe. Each hole on this magnificent links is carved from the natural landscape of one of the most unspoiled parts of Europe, with hazards laid down long before the game of golf was dreamt of, including a winding “burn” that meanders through the entire course. As you play, the whole panorama of the Dingle Peninsula is revealed – a truly memorable golfing experience.
Dingle is carved from the natural landscape of one of the most unspoiled parts of Europe.
DROMOLAND CASTLE: The course has recently undergone a €5 million renovation to make it one of the finest layouts in this part of Ireland. Re-designed by Ron Kirby & J.B. Carr, this championship course measuring over 6,850 yards, roams through the extensive woodland and around the feral lakes of this 16th century estate with subtlety and sensitivity.
SELECTION OF HOTELS
First Class
ACTONS HOTEL (pictured above), Kinsale(First Class): Located in private gardens overlooking picturesque Kinsale Harbour and yachting marina. This attractive hotel, renowned for its cuisine and atmosphere, features a modern health and leisure centre including heated pool, sauna, gym, and solarium. Kinsale is famous as the gourmet capital of Ireland and the hotel’s Captain’s Table Restaurant is a member of Kinsale’s good food circle. All bedrooms have multi-channel T.V., hair dryer and tea/coffee making facilities.
THE 19TH LODGE , Ballybunion (First Class): Ballybunion’s 19th Lodge is indeed a golfers paradise. Aptly named for its enviable location directly opposite Ballybunion’s famous links. Newly refurbished to the highest of standards, including residents lounge with honor bar, complemented with stunning views of the course. Deluxe ensuite rooms with bath and shower, some with jacuzzi, all equipped with internet access, cable tv, direct dial telephone, hairdryer, trouser press etc. Enjoy your breakfast in their dining-room overlooking the course while you watch others tee off. Breakfast menu from 6am with home made scones. (House speciality Mary’s pancakes). Golf storage and drying room available. A warm welcome awaits you.
OLD GROUND HOTEL, Ennis (First Class): This charming ivy clad hotel located in the town of Ennis is perfectly suited for the traveling golfer. Newly refurbished, it offers comfort, service and convenience. The fine championship courses are close by, as well as many sightseeing attractions.
Superior First Class
THE MALTON HOTEL (pictured above), Killarney (Superior First Class): Since 1854, the Malton Hotel Killarney has been the most famous hotel in the renowned town of Killarney. Although in the heart of Killarney, the hotel is set within 20 acres of landscaped gardens. The glowing hearth in the lobby exemplifies the warm welcome you will receive, and the old world features combine with modern facilities to create true luxury. Each of the 180 bedrooms at the Malton Hotel, Killarney reflects the style and elegance of this gracious property. There is a range of standard and executive rooms, suites and mini suites. In room facilities include bath/shower, radio, multichannel TV, trouser press, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. A 24-hour room service is available.
BLUE HAVEN HOTEL, Kinsale (Superior First Class): The perfect place to stay in Kinsale – Ireland’s Gourmet capital and centrally located on the site of the old fish market. Awarded Ireland Hotel of the Year 1996 by Egon Ronay and Jameson Guide. Renowned for its fresh seafood and shellfish cuisine, ambience, atmosphere and friendly staff. Seventeen rooms with an old town house style and all mod cons. The Blue Haven epitomizes what a small owner-run hotel should be.
DUNRAVEN ARMS HOTEL, Adare (Superior First Class): Established in 1792, the Dunraven Arms is an old world hotel surrounded by ornate thatched cottages, in Ireland’s prettiest village. Each bedroom including twelve suites are beautifully appointed with antique furniture, dressing room and bathroom en suite. Award-winning restaurant, AA Three Red Rosettes. Leisure center comprised of a 17m pool, steam room and gym studio. Equestrian and golf holidays a specialty. Thirty minutes from Shannon Airport.
LAHINCH GOLF & LEISURE HOTEL, Lahinch (Superior First Class): The Lahinch Golf and Leisure Hotel is a luxurious four-star property situated on the former site of The Aberdeen Arms and is highly anticipated to be a Premier hotel in the Shannon region. It comprises of 140 rooms including 60 Luxuriously appointed Bedrooms and 42 Two Bedroom Executive Suites. Each guest room features King size beds, spacious bathrooms and every convenience for the contemporary traveler. Rich fabrics and soft comfortable furniture ensure that each guest can relax in peaceful surroundings after a hard day of golf on the sand dunes of The Lahinch Championship Golf Course. Relax in the warm and inviting atmosphere of ‘The Green Bar’ or enjoy gourmet coffees and homemade desserts in our stylish Coffee Lounge. The Lahinch Golf and Leisure Hotel will feature a friendly dining experience in ‘Dunes Restaurant’ featuring the best in Local and Seafood Cuisine. The Leisure Centre in The Lahinch Golf and Leisure Hotel has a 17-meter swimming pool, Jacuzzi, Sauna, Steam Room along with specialized treatment rooms. There will also be a wholly equipped gymnasium.
Deluxe
KILLARNEY PARK HOTEL (pictured above), Killarney (Deluxe): This is considered by most to be the best hotel in Killarney. It was the AA Irish Hotel of the Year in 1997/’98. It is located in town, yet in it’s own beautiful grounds. The hotel offers a country house style lobby, library, drawing room, billiards room, open fires, candlelit dinners and a resident pianist. The hotel has 76 air-conditioned bedrooms, antique furniture, swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi, Canadian outdoor hot tub and gymnasium.
THE LODGE AT DOONBEG, Doonbeg (Deluxe): The Lodge at Doonbeg offers unparalleled service and accommodations that makes Doonbeg a unique experience. Located adjacent to the golf course, the Loge has sweeping views of the Atlantic and is furnished with genuine warmth and elegance. Each four bedroom lodge has a comfortable living room and kitchen. Enjoy the formal dining in the Long Room or a nice pint in the Darby where the craic is famous.
DROMOLAND CASTLE, Newmarket-on-Fergus (Deluxe): It is located just 8 miles
from Shannon Airport. Stately halls, elegant public areas and beautifully furnished guest
rooms are steeped in a timeless atmosphere that is unique to Dromoland. At Dromoland you will find a meticulously maintained and recently redesigned 18-hole golf course, fishing, horse-riding, clay shooting, health and beauty clinic and much more.
SHEEN FALLS LODGE, Kenmare (Deluxe): Voted #3 hotel in Europe by Conde Nast, the lodge presides over a dramatic 300-acre estate above the Sheen Waterfalls and the Kenmare Bay. Superb dining is available in either La Cascade restaurant or Oscars bistro. Facilities on the estate include horseriding, tennis, clay shooting, salmon fishing, heli-pad; included within the lodge are a health and fitness center, swimming pool, library, billiard room and wine cellar.
HAYFIELD MANOR HOTEL, Cork (Deluxe): This luxurious five star hotel opened in spring 1996 and was planned with meticulous care to look and feel like a large period
house. Hayfield Manor offers its guests an uncompromising level of service, personal yet
efficient. It has a very relaxing atmosphere and charm, popular with both resident guests and Corkonians alike. This fine hotel is part of a grand two acre estate and gardens and inside has every modern comfort and maintains an atmosphere of tranquillity. The bedrooms are spacious and contain many thoughtful touches and extras.
PARK HOTEL KENMARE, Kenmare (Deluxe): Standing proudly overlooking the famous Ring of Kerry, the limestone building, now 100 years old, welcomes guests with renowned warmth. This five star Hotel with terraced gardens to the lapping waters also borders the Heritage Town of Kenmare. Tastefully furnished with antiques and original art all modern facilities offered in keeping with the original style of a gracious time. Log fires and relaxing corners to hide in with a bestseller will only be discovered by discreet staff at your service.There are very few hotels as welcoming and comfortable as the Park Hotel Kenmare. Privately owned and managed, a most memorable visit is assured. The Park Hotel has been awarded the Egon Ronay ‘Hotel of The Year’ and is ranked in the Top 26 Worldwide by Harper’s Hideaway.
ADARE MANOR (pictured below), Adare (Deluxe): Located just 20 miles from Shannon airport. Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Club, set on the banks of the River Maigue, boasts splendor in its luxuriously finished rooms. The Oak Room restaurant provides haute cuisine laced with Irish charm. Indoor facilities include a heated pool, fitness center, sauna and massage therapy.
