DESTINATION GOLF 2024
Westport
Loughrea
This quiet country course was first extended to 18 holes by Eddie Hackett in 1992 , but built four new holes in the 200os . It is the natural feel of Loughrea ’ s terrain that makes golf here such a pleasure . There is no need for glamorous touches on a course where the landscape does all of the work . Trees frame holes on the opening nine especially . The back nine elevates proceedings with some tricky water features and open , tossing countryside . Even so , you can open the shoulders here , especially on holes 13 to 15 where you ’ ll get a true feel for Loughrea ’ s shapely terrain .
Westport
Westport sits on the edge of Clew Bay , where the sea laps up to the best holes and the ever-present Croagh Patrick looms large . Given the mountain ’ s iconic status , golfers may go searching for inspiration . On the par three 14th , you hit directly at it . This is a par 73 of 6,800 yards ( middle tees ). There are five par fives , with the 15th being the pick of the bunch , curling around the waters of the bay and demanding a big drive to clear it . Westport shifts gear considerably from the 7th on , when some significant ridges appear . Holes 11 to 16 are superb , using the best elevation changes , the best views and the water to thrill you .
Oughterard
“ There is no need for glamorous touches on a course where the landscape does all of the work .”
Oughterard has two things that make it stand out : the greens are large and beautifully shaped ( thanks to new ones built at the end of the 1990s ); and eight par fours fall between 370 and 400 metres , from the middle white tees … making Oughterard quite the test . The par of 70 stretches to 5,876 metres . The real fun comes on the approach shots through avenues of trees to raised and inviting greens . They promise deliciously tempting shots . There is only one significant dogleg and it ’ s the double dogleg par five 8th … which also happens to be the best hole on the course .
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