Ireland's Golf Destinations Beyond Royal Portrush: Discover Castles, Country Houses, and Ancient Towers in a Golf-Fueled Journey
The central belt of Ireland has become a hotspot for golf enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of courses that cater to various playing styles. Among the standout options are The K Club, Carton House, and Killeen Castle, each boasting its unique charm and challenges.
Situated in Straffan, Co. Kildare, The K Club is renowned for its two courses: the Palmer Course and the Smurfit Course. The Palmer Course, in particular, gained international acclaim when it hosted the Ryder Cup in 2006. The course weaves around the historic Straffan House and features a beautiful 8th hole with a 175-year-old footbridge over the River Liffey.
Carton House, also in Co. Kildare, offers two contrasting courses: the Montgomerie Course and the O'Meara Course. The Montgomerie Course is known for its challenging water features, while the O'Meara Course is characterized by its links-style holes set amidst rolling hills. The par-5 9th hole on the O'Meara course has sweeping changes of elevation, making it a particularly memorable hole.
Killeen Castle Golf Club, located in Dunsany, Co. Meath, offers a challenging layout designed by Jack Nicklaus. The course is set around a historic castle and features impressive bunkering and water hazards, making it a challenging but scenic golfing experience. In 2011, Killeen Castle hosted The Solheim Cup, an international competition that showcased the course's ability to handle high-level competition.
Druid's Glen Golf Club, situated in Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, is known for its picturesque setting and challenging layout. The course features a mix of tree-lined and open holes with numerous water hazards, making it a favorite among golfers.
Beyond these four courses, other options include Beech Park Golf Club in Rathcoole, Co. Dublin, which offers a more relaxed, parkland experience with mature trees and a gentle layout. Royal Curragh Golf Club, situated in Kildare, is steeped in history and offers a challenging test of golf amidst rolling countryside.
The tourist board in Ireland is marketing the area as part of Ireland's Ancient East to attract more golf tourists. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and challenging courses, the central belt of Ireland is a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts seeking a diverse and unforgettable golfing experience.
Golf enthusiasts eager to explore Ireland can add Killeen Castle Golf Club in Co. Meath to their list, a challenging layout designed by Jack Nicklaus with a backdrop of a historic castle and tricky bunkering. Druid's Glen Golf Club in Co. Wicklow also offers a scenic yet challenging experience, with a mix of tree-lined and open holes, and numerous water hazards.
