Destination Golf Ireland 2017 * | Page 148

White XXXX Lighthouse at Fanad Head , County Donegal .

TOURISM IN ULSTER

The northern-most province of Ulster boasts a huge selection of the finest golf courses to be found … not just on the island of Ireland , but also the world . Straddling two countries , Ulster offers a wide variety of activities and sights . Belfast , the island ’ s second largest city , has a rich history and culture , being the location of Harland and Wolff shipbuilders ( of Titanic fame ), the stunning City Hall , and a vibrant nightlife . The city offers over 20 highly ranked-courses within a short driving distance , and both Malone and Belvoir Park are tucked away in its suburbs .
The Northern Irish coastline , spanning over 200km , is drenched in stunning natural beauty , with many untouched beaches - 10 of which have received the UK-wide Seaside Award . Also on this coastline lies the Giant ’ s Causeway , in Co . Antrim . This World Heritage Site is not to be missed and its hexagonal basalt columns have been attracting visitors for years . Easily accessible from Belfast is Lough Neagh , the largest freshwater lake in the UK or Ireland . It is steeped in mystery and folklore , which could even describe the golf courses of Royal Portush and Portstewart , which plays over dunes known as God ’ s Own Country .
Derry city , on the River Foyle , is the second largest city in Northern Ireland . Famous for its walled city and rich history , it has produced some of Ireland ’ s most famous writers , such as the poet Seamus Heaney , and the playwright Brian Friel . Donegal , the northernmost county in the Republic , has a remote and rugged landscape , with national parks and a breathtaking coast . Malin Head , the most northerly point on the island , is located on the remote Inishowen Peninsula . It just happens to be in the same vicinity as the renowned courses of Ballyliffin and North West , which celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2016 .
Co . Donegal offers plenty of the island ’ s best links courses , such as the spectacular Donegal Golf Club , Narin and Portnoo , Rosapenna , and the nine hole gem of Cruit Island . The county promises some of the best surfing in the world , too , with Bundoran gaining a reputation as one of the world ’ s best locations .
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