Strandhill
Co. Sligo
A links which sits out at the end of Rosses Point, commanding
sensational views over Drumcliff and Sligo bays, distant mountains
and, most dominant of all, Benbulbin – the flat-topped mountain
creates a daunting backdrop. And if the seting is majestic, then so
too is the golf course. Laid out over a dunescape of contrasting
rhythms, this is where the acclaimed Harry Colt created 18
intriguingly individual holes. Indeed, there are almost three courses
in one, such are the changing landscapes: in places it is flat, in others
it is bumpy and unpredictable and in still more it is steep, even
mountainous. But they all combine beautifully and it is all on show
from the tee. Work by Pat Ruddy is ongoing.
Laid out over a dunescape
of contrasting rhythms, this is
where the acclaimed Harry Colt
created 18 intriguingly individual
holes.
116
Strandhill
The sea squeezes this stunning links on two sides. Riders of the
waves prefer the west, while riders of horses favour the south.
You’ll see them from a course that hugs the water but also rises up
the dunes in the centre, sending holes scattering down the bumpy
slopes to some severely undulating, natural greens. There’s no
magic design formula (the members did much of it), which works in
Strandhill’s favour because holes like the 5th, 13th and 15th are off
the charts for sheer fun and adventure. The smart clubhouse sits
at the top, too, showing off much of the course. Appreciate it for
what it is… an absolute gem and a quirky one at that. The course
is currently undergoing a series of upgrades by Ally McIntosh, with
new bunkering providing additional character and challenge to
many holes. Perhaps, most telling of all, is the club’s tagline which is
‘Friendship in Sport’… and that says it all for Strandhill.
Riders of the waves prefer
the west, while riders of horses
favour the south.