Donegal
Phone: (073) 913-4054
If you like your
links large and sprawling, Donegal is the perfect course for you. Spanning 7,200
yards and featuring panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Donegal Hills,
the golf course is one of Ireland's biggest and boldest. Seasoned golfers will
find a challenge in the famous fifth “Valley of Tears” hole, which requires the
utmost skill to master. Founded in 1973, Donegal has played host to a variety
of tournaments, including the Irish Women's Close. After a round at Donegal, head
to the nearby Mill Park Hotel for some rest and relaxation before the Mill Park
's cozy fireplace.
Rosapenna
Phone: (074) 915-5301
Secluded in the hills of Donegal,
Rosapenna is one of Ireland's oldest and most serene
golf courses. Constructed in 1892 by the legendary
golfer Old Tom Morris, Rosapenna has been attracting
golf enthusiasts to its rolling fairways and greens
for centuries. In part because of its location so
far from the beaten path, a hotel was soon built to
accommodate golf enthusiasts. Since its founding,
the golf course has changed significantly, but its
traditional elegance has been kept in tact. Mountain,
ocean, sky and dunes come together in perfect harmony
on Rosapenna. Few courses in Ireland have 36 links
holes of such high quality, and no other boasts a
four star hotel on its grounds. The Rosapenna Hotel
is one of the jewels of Northern Ireland. Tranquil
lounges, elegant dining areas and deluxe bedrooms
look out onto the picturesque Donegal Bay and make
for a luxurious stay.
Ballyliffin
Phone: (074) 937-6119
Ballyliffin
offers two world-class links: the Old Links, designed in 1947, and Glashedy Links,
which opened a decade ago. The Old Links has long been known as the ultimate hidden
gem of Irish golf. Dubbed “the Dornoch of Ireland,” the Old has won praise from
golfers the world over. With undulating fairways that twist and tumble in every
direction imaginable and humps and bumps galore, the Old Links is truly classic
links at its best. Glashedy Links shares the same terrain and surroundings of
its older counterpart but features impossibly smooth fairways and incredible bunkers.
Many consider Ballyliffin the best 36 holes Ireland has to offer. If you're planning
on visiting Ballyliffin, consider spending a night at the Transa House Hotel.
Just two minutes away from the golf course, the Transa House offers a relaxed
and friendly atmosphere and serves traditional Irish fare in its cozy dining room.
