spectacular elevated tees, clearly
visible landing areas and large
greens. A statue of Old Tom
Morris who must have seen it all
before, watches on as we drive
off on the 501 yards par-5 opener.
The holes wind and twist their
way through a maze of the tallest
and shaggiest dunes on the
coast, where a sense of isolation
and tranquility surrounds you.
One hole that will etch itself in
the memory is the par-4 6th
where you drive over a crest
then look down at the emerald
green below with a stunning
panorama of Muckish Mountain,
Sheephaven Bay and the golden
beach of Tramore. Sandy Hills
at Rosapenna isn’t your average
layout – it’s a golfing adventure
on a brilliant course and a fitting
finale to our ‘Northern Links’ trip...
Overnight: McGrory’s (Culdaff)
Further Information
Where To Stay
Slieve Donard Resort & Spa: This 100-year-old Victorian property is one of Ireland’s
most stunning and luxurious golf hotels and is situated immediately adjacent to
the world famous Royal County Down golf club, home to the 2015 Irish Open. The
property boasts a luxurious Spa (16 treatment rooms, a 20-metre pool and vitality
rooms), fine dining or relaxed bistro-style and a sumptuous breakfast featuring a full
Irish or perhaps porridge with a dash of Bushmills whiskey.
www.hastingshotels.com/slieve-donard-resort-and-spa/
Bushmills Inn – This multi award-wining luxury four-star accommodation in the heart
of Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast is an excellent base for golfers, being well
situated for Royal Portrush, Portstewart and Castlerock. This former coaching inn
oozes character from intimate ‘snugs’ with aged timbers to the secret library and the
cosy glow of an open peat fire. The AA Rosette Restaurant blending ‘new Irish cuisine’
with the finest North Antrim fresh produce overlooks the garden courtyard. www.
bushmillsinn.com
Ballyliffin Lodge & Spa Hotel: Set in the heart of Ballyliffin village with spectacular
panoramic views of Malin Head and the Inishowen coastline, the four-star Ballyliffin
Lodge makes an excellent and comfortable base for playing Ballyliffin’s two courses
ideally located within 1km of the hotel. After a tough day on the links enjoy the
facilities at the award-winning leisure complex including a 17-metre pool, sauna,
steam room and jacuzzi, or book a spa treatment or massage. www.ballyliffinlodge.
com
Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Resort: The origins of this four-star family run hotel date back
to the year 1891 when Lord Leitrim invited the renowned Old Tom Morris to lay out
a golf course along the sand dunes of stunning Sheephaven Bay. Only a well-struck
drive away from the luxury bedrooms and bayview suites are the two premier 18hole courses ( Old Tom Morris Links and Sandy Hills) in addition to a practice facility
with 12 hole par-3 course, a well-stocked pro shop and a golf pavilion with bar &
restaurant. www.rosapenna.ie
McGrory’s – ‘This powerhouse of a place is Pub, Amazing Music Venue, Restaurant
and Comfy Rooms, and it Rocks with energy and the special contentment of a unique
destination’ – says John Mc Kenna (100 Best Places to Stay in Ireland) of this family
run hotel since 1924. In addition, McGrory’s is partnered with Ballyliffin Golf Club
which is only a 15 minutes drive away and nearby is beautiful Culdaff Beach with
swimming, canoeing, surfing and fishing all available. www.mcgrorys.ie
North & West Coast Links
For more information and a variety of golf packages to play courses in Ireland’s north
and north west coastal regions please visit: www.northandwestcoastlinks.com
Where To Play (the 6 courses)
Ardglass Golf Club: www.ardglassgolfclub.com
Portstewart Golf Club: www.portstewartgc.co.uk
Royal Portrush Golf Club: www.royalportrushgolfclub.com
Castlerock Golf Club: www.castlerockgc.co.uk
Ballyliffin Golf Club: www.ballyliffingolfclub.com
Rosapenna: www.rosapenna.ie
Distances between the courses:
Dublin Airport to Ardglass: 162 km, 100 miles.
Ardglass to Portstewart: 146 km, 91 miles
Portstewart – Portrush: 6 km, 4 miles
Portrush to Castlerock: 26 km, 27 miles
Castlerock to Ballyliffin: 75 km, 47 miles
Volume 3 • Issue 27
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