Luttrellstown Castle
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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.
Portmarnock
A links of low, sweet dunes and sensational strategy. Portmarnock,
just north of Dublin city, is revered the world over and with good
r eason. 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-and-
run 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, while the 14th and 15th are two of the most admired and
feared holes in Ireland.
Hermitage
Despite being located beside the busy N4, Hermitage Golf Club
remains an oasis of calm. Boasting a distinguished 116 year history
this is classic, mature parkland weaving through dense corridors
of trees. It also promises a heavily undulating landscape as it
rolls and tumbles down to the River Liffey. The biggest change in
elevation is revealed by a walk alongside the clubhouse: the par
three 10th is one of the best and most tempting holes around,
dropping sharply from the clubhouse to a green in front of the
River Liffey. This is also the start of the best run of holes as you
drift inland and find an isolation which belies the club’s suburban
setting. Hermitage is also highly regarded for the quality of its
greens and they prove to be attractive targets the whole way
around.
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Low, subtle and often
narrow fairways lead into
exceptional greens… but be
warned: the deep bunkers may
prove your undoing.