DESTINATIONGOLF. TRAVEL
CONNACHT
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 setting 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. There are so many‘ wow’ moments including the 3rd, 5th, 9th and 10th tee boxes, while the 17th is one of the best and toughest par fours in the country. Current upgrades are underway with Martin Ebert renovating some holes.
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 ongoing work by Ally McIntosh is paying big dividends.
Galway Bay
The setting for Galway Bay couldn’ t be more idyllic. The land flows down to the sea from the highest point( the clubhouse) and views spill across the water to Galway City and the Burren. There are two loops of nine here, each touching the sea on two sides. The course has been designed to resemble a links and the barren, aesthetically shaped landscape definitely has links feel. And let’ s not forget the wind. There aren’ t many trees here but those that exist are bent low by the prevailing winds. Galway Bay offers something a little different. Just mind the many bunkers that dazzle along fairways and under greens.
Ballinrobe
Ballinrobe has received high praise from Padraig Harrington, who described it as“ the finest championship golf course in the West of Ireland”. It is spread over an old estate of 300 acres with big trees and gentle changes in elevation. There’ s an old stone wall or two, ponds and lakes( but not too many), swathes of gorse and one good hole after another. It has an easy flow. A par 73, with five par fives, it measures 6,144 metres( middle tees). Finding the right fairway position on the doglegs is the main challenge. Big trees stay back … although sadly the weeping ash completely blocking the 18th green has now gone.
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