XXXX Luttrellstown Castle
Luttrellstown Castle
Luttrellstown Castle has the advantage of routing its golf course over a vast 567 acre estate , right on the edge of Dublin city . Big , lazy and expansive , it takes in the River Liffey , as well as sentinel-like mature trees which have been employed to shepherd holes and create impressive backdrops … although the castle at the far end of the course may prove most dramatic of all . There are no climbs , but the undulations ensure a flowing rhythm to your round while the trees add scale and drama . It is a surprisingly open course , with 11 holes featuring water , but it is long . At close to 6,800 yards from the middle tees , you will want to open your shoulders . Stunning clubhouse and facilities .
Royal Dublin
Founded in 1885 , Royal Dublin is Ireland ’ s oldest links . Its clubhouse sums up the quality and history embraced by the traditional out-and-back routing at one end of Bull Island . There are no big dunes here – this is about the natural twists and turns that make bump-and-run links golf a joy to play . Low , subtle and often narrow fairways lead into exceptional greens … but be warned : the deep bunkers may prove your undoing . You can expect a windy assault when you reach the turn for the prevailing winds that made the front nine play benignly , as they will hammer you all the way home . Being able to hit low shots may be the only way to play this back nine , but take inspiration from the plaque beside the 16th tee . Christy O ’ Connor played the last three holes in five under par to win the Carrolls International in 1966 , and the plaque marks the starting point .
Portmarnock
A links of low , sweet dunes and sensational strategy . Portmarnock , just north of Dublin city , is revered the world over and with good reason . Apart from the 5th , the holes are always on show from the tee and this can lull you into a false sense of security . It ’ s as if you can see the whole painting , but not the detail … and that detail is so vitally important . Holes are so subtle and green complexes so intricate that smart positioning off the tee is crucial . Only then can you attack pins on perfect putting surfaces . Employ your bump-andrun skills as best you can : this is a course where such skills will be rewarded . Established in 1894 the fabric of the course has changed little ( despite some recent revisions by Hawtree ), while the 14th and 15th are two of the most admired and feared holes in Ireland .
Low , subtle and often narrow fairways lead into exceptional greens … but be warned : the deep bunkers may prove your undoing .
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