Golfing in Ireland
With the miles and miles of rolling green meadows, Ireland is a golfer’s dream. People come from all around the world to experience the unique golfing experience that Ireland has to offer. It is home to 440 golf courses, some of them collectively comprising 30% of the world’s natural links courses.
In 1891, the Golfing Union of Ireland was established. All clubs under the Union follow the rules of the Royal and Ancient golf club, the headquarters of which is located in Scotland, where the game of golf first originated.
Since the World Cup in Ireland in 1960, golf has become an incredibly popular sport all across the Emerald Isle. In 1986 there were 248 affiliated golf clubs, while today there are 408 clubs, boasting over 250,000 members. This number increases every year, and the amount of affiliated clubs is expected to reach 450 by the year 2010.
Located just ten minutes outside of Dublin is the largest golfer destination in Ireland, Elmgreen Golf Centre. It is relatively new, having just opened in 1995, and has been host to nearly two million golfers since then. Elmgreen is an 18-hole course with 110 acres of fairways.
About 56km from Kerry Airport, you will find the Ballybunion Club. It is world famous for its beautiful and natural layout. Most of the course appears to be untouched by man, but naturally suited for golf. Located a stone’s throw from the Atlantic Ocean, the spectacular views are nothing short of breathtaking. Due to the natural terrain and unpredictable winds, this course is not for beginners.
The K Club in Straffan is another golfer’s paradise. Not only does it feature two world-class courses designed by Arnold Palmer, but it is also home to a five-star luxury hotel. In addition to the hotel, there are also five extravagant restaurants on site, one of them being the five-star rated Byerley Turk Restaurant. The K Club is also famous for its “pretty ponds”.
When planning a golfing trip to Ireland, it is always a good idea to book as far in advance as possible. In most cases it will save you a great deal. Also keep in mind that summer time is a very busy time for the Irish golfing industry, and the bigger clubs tend to get very busy. Some airlines will charge an additional fee for carrying golf clubs, so be sure to check with them beforehand.