XXXX Courtown
Mountrath
Mountrath has so much going for it : the landscape rolls like waves , the big trees shadow you and the entertaining greens amuse and perplex . It ’ s a fun combination and exceptional value for money . It is yet another course that can claim a ‘ hidden gem ’ title , tucked away in Co . Laois , off the M7 . Tee shots are exciting and inviting . Yes , there may be some blind drives but you ’ ll still want to get over the ridges and see how far that ball runs . There are no real doglegs – Mountrath is straight and true – the par threes are strong , and the River Nore makes a telling entrance late in the round .
Courtown
The sunny south-east is a popular holiday haunt and Courtown Golf Club certainly blossoms during the summer , but this 80 year old parkland offers smart and enjoyable golf all year round . The course roams over lilting , tree-lined terrain with several delicious drives at fairways below or over crests . From a couple of them the proximity of the sea is abundantly clear . The trees squeeze in and out , presenting different challenges , and for every hole where you have room you ’ ll find another where accuracy is paramount . Combined with some short par fours this is why it is so much fun to play . The greens are good , two of the par fives offer good birdie opportunities , and the par threes are excellent .
K Club ( Smurfit )
The K Club Smurfit course opened in 2003 . Like its sibling , it was designed by Arnold Palmer , with the aim of offering a very different experience to the Ryder Cup course . The Smurfit is a shapely beast with huge shoulders of earth creating channels to play through . And water is a frequent visitor especially on the strong back nine . The cliff and lake that dominate the 7th hole are an intriguing ( man-made ) feature … but it is the final six holes that will tempt you and test you most . The par five 18th requires at least two excellent shots over water . The course has its own entrance and impressive clubhouse .
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 .
67