Dunmurry Springs
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Rathsallagh
Not a single tree was felled in the design of this course… emphasising
how beautifully wooded and yet spacious Rathsallagh is. It’s like
playing through a grand estate… one where tall solitary trees can
prove utterly intimidating. And magnetic. This is sweet, sometimes
turbulent, Co. Wicklow countryside and that becomes immediately
apparent from the clubhouse when you peer down holes 9, 10 and
18. As such, it promises plenty of variety with numerous stand-out
holes (2, 6, 8, 10, 13, 14, 18). The par four 10th (Index 1) is one of the
best and toughest par fours you’ll face. Rathsallagh is a strong par 72
and due to re-open in March 2016. The beautiful Rathsallagh House
hotel overlooks the course.
Dunmurry Springs
Dunmurry Springs opened in 2005. Holes stretch over a hillside
and down to the clubhouse, where more level terrain is drenched
by water features. It is a lovely mix and the recent re-routing
has kept climbs to a minimum. It is also maturing well with trees
structuring holes and stunning green complexes providing vibrant
targets. Views fall across seven counties from the top of the
course and from here there are some glorious tee shots over the
mountain backdrops. It is not a long course (par 71, 6,068 yards,
white tees) but that doesn’t mean it won’t fool you… you need to
think strategically to score well.
Coollattin
Arboretum golf, pure and simple. Set in an old estate, Coollattin’s
trees are as varied and colourful – and ever-present – as on
any course you’ll find in Ireland. It is a magical setting and
holes sweep around the trees to give you the full exhibition.
They threaten constantly off the tee. And the greens and their
surrounds are tricky, no doubt a defence against the fairly short
length of this par 72 course. The par threes are very good indeed
and Coollattin is famous for its short 5th tucked away in a walled
garden. It measures just 120 yards.
56
Views fall across seven counties
from the top of the course and
from here there are some glorious
tee shots over the mountain
backdrops.