DESTINATIONGOLF . TRAVEL
DUBLIN
Castle
Castle
One of Dublin ’ s premier parklands , Castle Golf Club is tucked away in quiet Rathfarnham suburbia . It has a lovely rhythm over flattish terrain , which is no doubt a testament to the work of the famous golf architect , Harry Colt . Corridors of evergreens give a dark air to the course and certainly they can make for tight driving , with holes curling left or right . It will only take a few holes to realise that while Castle is a short par 72 , it will make a fool of you if you don ’ t find the fairways . A class course from start to finish .
Grange
Grange is an old , revered and charming Dublin parkland , designed by none other than James Braid . The variety of exceptionally attractive trees and terrain means you will find constant shifts in pace , shape of holes and the challenges that face you . Grange boasts an open woodland feel , something emphasised by the pretty wood in the middle , and holes demand accurate and intelligent golf as they drift around the trees . It is a quality and colourful course , right next to Marlay Park . There is a surprising sense of peace given its Rathfarnham location and the new short game area is an added bonus . Changes by Paul McGinley Design are continuing .
Hermitage
Despite being located beside the busy N4 , Hermitage Golf Club remains an oasis of calm . Boasting a distinguished 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 .
Beech Park
This pretty course lies south of the N7 . Such is the density of deciduous trees that Beech Park is more woodland than parkland . On the more open front nine trees still shadow you every step of the way , while on the back nine they close in to create some dark , colourful corridors . Combined with the water features it makes Beech Park a charming round of golf . It is a short and accessible par 72 but is well known for its ‘ Amen Corner ’, a stretch of five holes ( 9 to 13 ) that begins and ends with par fives .
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