Golf Courses in Western Ireland
Carne Hackett
On the remote Belmullet peninsula, in the far northwest corner of County Mayo, the links at Carne is, without a shadow of doubt, one of the great links courses in the world. Its remote location is a possible reason why this course is relatively unknown, but for any discerning links golfer it is simply unmissable.
Connemara
At the western edge of the beautiful Connemara region, the golf links of the same name is another course designed by Eddie Hackett. Inspired by a local priest, the golf course opened for play in 1973 and remains unaltered. The links landscape is unique, the golf is thrilling and the peaceful surrounds truly unforgettable.
Doonbeg
Doonbeg is a Greg Norman design on the site originally proposed in the 1870s for Lahinch Golf Club. This is a relatively new links - a tremendously scenic setting with some beautiful golf holes. Major storm damage in 2014 has been repaired and resulted in a better golf course. Fear the wind here and heat up the putter!
Dromoland
The golf course at Dromoland Castle meanders through woodlands and around the lake adjacent to the fairytale castle that gives the course its name. The original no expense spared creation has been upgraded in 2020 with an eye on future professional tournaments. Ideal course for post-arrival round when landing at Shannon Airport.
Enniscrone
Enniscrone completes the hat-trick of top-rated links courses in the Western region. From the 1st, where an approach shot is played to an elevated green camped between the high sand dunes, Enniscrone continues to present a fine and varied selection of links holes with sea, river and mountain views.
Galway Bay
The wind that can blow from three sides unprotected is the only similarity with links golf and the challenge presented by Galway Bay. However, together with the strategic bunkering this is nonetheless a fine parkland course with views across Galway Bay. Another example of O'Connor Jnr.'s underrated design abilities.
Lahinch Old
The world famous links at Lahinch need no introduction. The Old Course is perhaps the most appealing blend of challenge and setting in Ireland and boasts two holes untouched since Old Tom Morris laid them out in 1894. Alister Mackenzie made it a masterpiece in 1926, touched up by Hawtree recent years.
Westport
One of the finest parkland courses in Ireland is to be found on the shores of Clew Bay at Westport Golf Club. A Fred Hawtree masterpiece that begins gently and builds continuously to a thrilling climax along the shore. Fine views of the island strewn bay dominated by Ireland's holy mountain, Croagh Patrick.
