XXXX Rosapenna ( Sandy HIlls )
Rosapenna ( Sandy Hills )
Co . Donegal ’ s rich set of golf courses includes 45 holes at Rosapenna ( soon to be 91 ). Rosapenna combines the very old with the very new : Old Tom Morris came here in the 1890s , while Sandy Hills was designed over 100 years later by Pat Ruddy . Given this stormy sea of dunes crashing over high ground , Pat must have been in his element as he carved fairways through the natural contours . Elevated tees promise delicious tee shots onto tossing fairways before rising to the greens . At times it feels as if you only come up for air between holes , to be met by the stunning vistas .
Lough Erne
The lakes of Co . Fermanagh make this entire region dazzle like diamonds . And , around one such diamond , Nick Faldo created a glorious parkland course with water always in view and often in play . Lough Erne is the plushest of Ireland ’ s golf resorts , with five star quality every inch of the way – in the hotel , the spa and on the golf course , where no expense has been spared . It ’ s the full package and even the walk over the bridge to reach the 1st tee oozes quality . The course starts beside Castle Hume Lough , before sliding quickly into the forest where you ’ ll fully appreciate the size and scale of the greens and green complexes . When the course reaches the par five 6th , high up between hotel and water , you will discover the biggest charms of Lough Erne : generous , languid fairways flowing over ever moving terrain . For lakeside golf there are far more elevation changes than you ’ d expect .
Donegal
The stunning setting of Donegal Golf Club ( aka Murvagh ) is part of this wonderful links golf experience … as is the long , isolated drive to reach the course . ‘ Long ’ and ‘ isolated ’ also aptly describe the course . The club is tucked away from prying eyes ( barely a house to be seen on the surrounding hills and Blue Stack Mountains ) and such remoteness is enchanting . As for length , Donegal is renowned for it . From the back tees it is 6,765 metres , so you ’ ll be pleased to know there are five tees to choose from . Low snaking dunes rush over the spacious terrain , rising to become more aggressive beasts next to Donegal Bay , where the best run of holes can be found .
Concra Wood
Only opened in 2008 , Concra Wood is one of Ireland ’ s youngest and highest quality parklands … there would be few who would dispute it also has the most beautiful setting of any inland course . Set on the shores of Lake Muckno , holes and water are deeply entwined , rarely apart for long and sublime when their embrace tightens . On three occasions you could find yourself hitting over the lake ’ s waters . The elevation changes are significant , promising mesmerising views and countless tempting tee and approach shots . Your shot to the 10th green is one you will be desperate to hit perfectly so you can watch it soar before it falls to the putting surface far below . Designed by the O ’ Connor duo ( Sr and Jr ), this is golf on a big and spacious scale . Holes move freely over sweet , tree-drenched landscapes , introducing you to the lake on several holes . Expect all the smart touches of such a professional course , especially the greens .
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