In the first of two articles, we would like to show you whats on offer at the south-west of Ireland’s golf courses and why we think you will love visiting them as much as we do.
Luxury Golf Links Tours in the South West of Ireland
When you visit the south west of Ireland, you will discover a country soaked in history and famous for its poetry, music and craic (fun). In Autumn, the southwest of Ireland yields some of the best known attractions and festivals which draw thousands of visitors to our idyllic country every year.
The furrowed dramatic atlantic coast line boasts many of the countries finest vistas that furnish some the worlds most unique golf courses. At Executive Tours Ireland, our golf tours in Ireland bring together some of the most magnificent golf courses with captivating sightseeing tours in Ireland.
Our customized golf vacations in Ireland include the following golf links:
Balllybunion Golf Links
We select only the best golf courses Ireland has to offer and that we ourselves have sampled over the years. The Ballybunion Golf Course, for example, is located on the north west coast of County Kerry and on one of the most beautiful spans of sand dunes on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. For those who enjoy more than one game, there are two unique golf courses to choose from; the Old Course and the Trent Jones Cashen Course. The Old Course can be described as a contoured terrain of striking, one-of-a-kind sand dunes for the golfer who prefers a more challenging game.
The Trent Jones Course offers many stunning views of the rugged coast line to enjoy during the game. The dunes are surrounded by long grass adding to the extensive meandering feel of the course.
Tralee Golf Links
The Tralee Golf Course was designed and built by Arnold Palmer and is described as “a true paradise” for experienced golfers who prefer a more challenging game. The course boasts many spectacular views of beaches and the Atlantic and was the chosen location for beach scenes used in the 1970’s movie “Ryan’s Daughter”.
The course is also home to what legend described as the mythical sandstone rock that Cuchullain hurled from the top of the Sliabh Mish Mountain which can be seen to the south of the 5th hole. Some say they can see the imprint of his giant fingers in the rock.
Lahinch Golf Links
The Lahinch Golf Course is situated in a small picturesque seaside village in the Atlantic coast in Co. Clare and is a popular surfing destination. It is also located in close proximity to the Cliffs of Moher, The Burnren and The Aran Island. It has two 18 hole courses; the Old Course and The Casle Course. It is consistently ranked among Europe’s Top 20 and the worlds Top 50 golf courses.
Doug Castle on 7th hole, was founded in 1506, and its Irish name “Dumhach Ui Chonchuir” translates to O’Connor’s Sand bank but was deposed by the O’Brien’s during Queen Elizabeths Rein. It’s slightly bizarre long-term residents, the goats, are instrumental in telling the weather; if seen around the Club House, it means bad weather and if seen on the sand hills, it means good weather.
Waterville Golf Links
The Waterville Golf Course is situated in an idyllic village in the Ring of Kerry and was founded 125 years ago. It is ranked 3rd in the world of Top 100 Recommended Best Golf Courses for Golfers to Play by Golf World UK magazine. The green was described by Ring of Kerry Tourism as “a sporting one” and at this time of year, the Atlantic breeze is both invigorating and refreshing. Take it from us, we have played the course and it is truly is a magnificent green on which to play golf.
Visitors to the course have the option of staying on the grounds at the charming Waterville House. This beautiful Georgian Manor is from the 18th century and faces the Atlantic with the breathtaking Lough Currane seen to the east. The manor was built by the Butler Family in 1790 and is a 4 star residence with 12 bedrooms. Guests can enjoy access to fishing the famous Butlers Pool and private rivers and lakes.
Old Head Golf Links
This is by far the most awe-inspiring piece of Irish landscape. The Old Head Golf Course is located in County Cork on the Southwest coast of Ireland. The course is unique to the world as the promontory is almost an island in itself with the 2 mile peninsula jetting into the Atlantic. It was established by Brothers, John and Patrick O’Connor and is one of the most sought after golf experiences in Ireland.
The changing sea breezes make this a wonderful course of endurance for golf pros and high handicappers. Designed as a walking course, Old Head encourages guests to walk the course and take in the numerous breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Old Head Lighthouse.
Trump International Golf Links
Doonbeg Golf Course at Trump International Golf Links & Hotel was designed by two-time British Open Champion, Greg Norman and spans 1.5 miles of the breathtaking beach and sand dunes of Doughmore Bay in County Clare. Wind direction on this course can entice golfers who enjoy a more challenging game while offering magnificent views of the Atlantic.
The Trump International Golf Links & Hotel offers two different dining experience: Trumps Bar & Restaurant and the Ocean View Restaurant. Diners are truly spoilt for choice from the cutting edge cuisine offered at both restaurants.
Luxury Irish Golf Vacations – Our Personal Service
Whatever your choice of golf links, we want you to have the most relaxing visit to Ireland, thats why we arrange every aspect of your Golf Tour in Ireland and provide you with a suggested itinerary that we are more than happy to change at any time to suit your needs.
Your accommodation… We offer all our guests a full service so we are happy to reserve your accommodation. We have built great long-standing relationships with all of the hotels and castles over the years so we always get the best rates and it goes without saying that it includes a Full Irish Breakfast every morning too!
Your Driver…Our golf transport drivers have been with us right from the start and are some of the best guides in the country with a vast knowledge of our beautiful country, courses and restaurants.
What sets them apart from the rest is how extremely friendly and flexible they are. Our private drivers in Ireland will guide, inform and entertain you and will leave no stone unturned in ensuring you get to experience your Irish golf vacation in a very special way. Our drivers can recommend and reserve the best hotels and restaurants in Ireland and we can guarantee the best prices and golf tee times. The warmth of the Irish people will become clear the minute you see our drivers waiting to greet you with the biggest smile.
Your Golf Transport Service…Our fleet consists of luxury Mercedes Sprinter buses which means you can enjoy plenty of storage for golf bags, gear and equipment. Our vehicles come with leather seats, air con in every seat, tables, DVD’s and screens, wifi, and a USB connection so that your phone is always fully charged. Of course our vehicles would not be complete without a large fridge, fully stocked with the best “Uisce Beatha” aka Irish whisky. And don’t worry, we won’t tell your wife how many you’ve had!!!
Don’t forget to check our blog for the second of our articles on Golf Courses in Ireland and Driver Guided Tours in Ireland.
For more information or to book a luxury golf tour in Ireland, click here to Contact Mike Ryan at Executive Tours Ireland. If you would like to talk to Mike Ryan directly from the US or Canada, call TOLL FREE: 1888 793 0416 or 00353 87 7930447.