DESTINATIONGOLF . TRAVEL
LEINSTER
Druids Heath
Bray
This modern , hillside course slots neatly across the slopes rising up to Bray Head . When you reach the 11th , you ’ ll have views across the bay , as far as Howth . There aren ’ t many trees so it feels quite exposed , especially on the front nine where holes rise in gradual steps but the terrain adds plenty of character . The back nine ’ s tempo wins the battle of the nines with some clever and challenging holes . The 11th is special but so too is the par five 18th which leads back to a very attractive clubhouse .
Courtown
This 80 year old parkland offers smart , enjoyable golf . The course roams over lilting , tree-lined terrain with several tee boxes promising those delicious drives at fairways below or over crests ; from a couple of them the proximity of the sea is made abundantly clear . The trees squeeze in and out , presenting different challenges , and for every hole where you have room you ’ ll find another where accuracy is paramount . Combined with some short par fours this is why it is so much fun to play . The greens are good , two of the par fives offer good birdie opportunities , and the par threes are all excellent .
Druids Heath
A sibling of the mighty Druids Glen , the Heath course was designed to be something very different . And it is . With links and heathland traits you play over a constantly moving landscape that often fools the eye ( and your club selection ). The course is awash with gorse and stern challenges – particularly the vast and speedy greens – but it was softened and re-imagined in 2020 / 21 with the removal of some 70 bunkers and the replacement of those that remained with a smaller , more ragged version . It fits together really well and makes the big and beautiful green complexes stand out all the more .
Moyvalley
The flowing , easy , almost hypnotic rhythm of Moyvalley is something you experience when you take the long drive up to the club , passing the hotel as you go . You get a good idea of what awaits . Here , the occasional giant tree stands alone beside a fairway , splashes of gorse add depth and colour to the sinuous rolling mounds , and golden grasses flash threateningly in the sunshine . Amongst it all , the bunkers are big and bright and well positioned . Moyvalley is calm and pleasurable golf with generous fairways and big , inviting greens … but the closing three holes promise a dramatic finish , with water threatening .
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