Southwest (Ireland)

Along Ireland's wild Atlantic coastline, Southwest Ireland presents golf enthusiasts with an extraordinary collection of links courses that rank among the world's most spectacular. Here, where dramatic cliffs meet pristine beaches and towering dunes, every round becomes an unforgettable journey through golf's purest form.

Ballybunion Old Course stands as the region's crown jewel, where centuries of wind and sea have sculpted towering dunes into natural amphitheaters for golf. The opening hole, playing alongside an ancient cemetery, sets the tone for a round where each hole feels discovered rather than designed. The back nine, winding through massive duneland, offers some of the most dramatic golf holes in existence.

Lahinch Golf Club, often called the "St. Andrews of Ireland," showcases the genius of Old Tom Morris and Alister MacKenzie. Their combined brilliance created a masterpiece where local goats still predict the weather and blind shots challenge golfers to trust their instincts. The par-3 Dell hole, completely hidden from view, epitomizes the imagination and creativity required to score well here.

Further south along the Kerry coastline, Waterville Links emerges from a remote peninsula like a golfer's dream. Here, Eddie Hackett and Tom Fazio have crafted 18 holes that dance through majestic dunes, each offering spectacular views across the Atlantic. Nearby, Tralee Golf Club, Arnold Palmer's first European design, presents what many consider golf's most dramatic back nine, where each hole seems to outdo the last in both beauty and challenge.

The clifftop marvel of Old Head Golf Links extends two miles into the Atlantic Ocean, creating perhaps golf's most dramatic setting. Built on a 220-acre diamond of land, the course offers ocean views from every hole, with nine playing directly along cliff edges that tower 300 feet above the surf.

Providing stunning contrast to these coastal links, Adare Manor showcases the future of Irish golf. This inland masterpiece, recently redesigned by Tom Fazio, has earned the nickname "The Augusta of Ireland" for its immaculate conditioning. Selected to host the 2027 Ryder Cup, Adare's parkland beauty and strategic challenge complement the region's rugged links perfectly.

Dooks Golf Club offers yet another perspective on links golf, its more subtle challenges and spectacular mountain views providing a perfect change of pace from its more famous neighbors. Here, as throughout Southwest Ireland, each course offers its own unique interpretation of links golf, creating a destination that must be experienced to be truly appreciated.

Destination Experiences: Culture & Leisure

Southwest Ireland captivates visitors with its perfect blend of dramatic landscapes and authentic Irish culture. The region's rugged coastline, part of the famous Wild Atlantic Way, presents a mesmerizing backdrop of towering cliffs, hidden coves, and windswept peninsulas that have shaped both the land and its people.

Killarney serves as an ideal base, where Irish hospitality reaches its pinnacle. The town sits at the gateway to Killarney National Park, a magnificent expanse of ancient woodlands, crystal-clear lakes, and mountains. Here, visitors can explore historic Ross Castle by traditional jaunting car, cruise the Lakes of Killarney, or hike through pristine wilderness. As evening falls, the town's streets come alive with traditional music sessions spilling from cozy pubs, while restaurants serve exceptional cuisine crafted from local Kerry ingredients.

The Ring of Kerry offers one of Ireland's most spectacular driving routes, where each turn reveals breathtaking vistas of mountains meeting sea. Along this route, stop at charming villages where traditional Irish culture thrives in authentic pubs and local craft shops. The colorful fishing town of Dingle captures hearts with its vibrant streets, traditional music scene, and famous resident dolphin, while also serving as a gateway to the dramatic Slea Head Drive.

Cork City, known as Ireland's culinary capital, presents a sophisticated urban experience anchored by the historic English Market, where local producers have traded for centuries. Nearby, the historic town of Kinsale enchants visitors with its maze of narrow streets, world-class seafood restaurants, and perfectly preserved 17th-century architecture. For history enthusiasts, Blarney Castle offers the chance to kiss the famous stone, while the Jameson Distillery in Midleton reveals the secrets behind Ireland's beloved whiskey tradition.

Practical Information

Location & Access:

• Shannon Airport (SNN) and Dublin Airport (DUB) serve as primary gateways

• Killarney and Lahinch offer ideal base locations for exploring the region

Best Time to Visit:

• May through September offers optimal playing conditions and longest daylight hours

• July and August see peak tourism and warmest temperatures

• Spring and autumn provide spectacular golf with mild conditions and fewer crowds

Planning Your Visit

Whether you're planning a dedicated golf retreat or combining play with Ireland's cultural attractions, our team specializes in crafting bespoke itineraries that maximize your experience. Contact us to discuss preferred tee times, accommodation options, and supplementary activities that will make your Irish golf journey truly memorable.