DESTINATIONGOLF. TRAVEL DUBLIN
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.
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.
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. Recent changes by Paul McGinley Design.
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.
Castle
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