Ireland boasts some of the best golf courses in the world! We’ve rounded up a few of our top picks below — but trust us, there are dozens more waiting for you! We offer a wide variety of golf tours suitable for players of all levels. Just choose what you want to fit in, and we’ll customise a tour just for you!
Now for the list!
Ballybunion (Old Golf Course)
In Ballybunion, prepare to be challenged throughout 18 demanding holes. Founded in 1893, the course has attracted legendary players throughout the years including Tom Watson, Tiger Woods and former U.S president Bill Clinton. In fact, Golf Digest ranked Ballybunion as the 7th best course in the world in 2005. Not bad!
Royal Portrush
This prestigious club, on the north coast of Co. Antrim, is home to 2 stunning links courses, Dunluce and The Valley Links. Dunluce famously hosted both the Irish Open in 2012 and the Open Championship in 2019. Look out for two legendary faces Darren Clarke and Graeme McDowell on the green!
Portmarnock
Just 15 minutes from Dublin Airport, Portmarnock is the perfect place to start/end your trip to Ireland. Surrounded by water on 3 sides, this gorgeous course has no 2 successive holes playing in the same direction. Portmarnock will force you to use all of the tricks up your sleeve!
Lahinch
Set right on the Atlantic Coastline, Lahinch is the perfect place to golf if you’re staying in Doolin. The course is nicknamed as the “St Andrews of Ireland,” as it was originally designed by Old Tom Morris. In the 1920’s, the course was revamped by Alister Mackenzie who would later co-design Augusta National. These talented designers have helped make Lahinch one of the best golf courses in Ireland.
The European Golf Club
Situated in Co. Wicklow, the European Club is one of the most famous courses on Ireland’s east coast. As one of the quirkier links, certain features give an added charm to the course – like the 2 bonus par 3’s and the longest green in the world (127 yards!).
Old Head of Kinsale
The Old Head of Kinsale is a spectacular course perched dramatically over the Atlantic Ocean. this spectacular course offers views that might distract you from your swing (fair warning!). Cliffs over 300m high run off the edge of the fairways, which means that wayward shots must be kept to a minimum!
Druids Glen
Druids Glen, originally built in the 16th century, has a rich history that includes hosting the Irish Open 4 times – with Colin Montgomerie and Sergio Garcia among the winners. The course was named the Golf Resort of the Year in 2023 by the Ireland Golf Tour Operator Association (IGTOA). When you come to play at Druids Glen, prepare for one of the most challenging, and most enjoyable golf courses in Europe.
County Louth Golf Club (Baltray)
Located in the historic Boyne valley, Baltray has produced some of Ireland’s greatest golfers. Pro golfer Paul McGinley says this is his favourite course, stating: “It’s just a great test. All the holes run in different directions, so you have a different exam paper on each hole”. The constantly shifting wind and layout mean every hole brings a fresh challenge. Plus, Baltray is one of the few courses in Ireland with clubhouse accommodation.
Rosses Point
Rosses Point is carved out by the earth, winds and water. The links layout uses the natural contours of the dune-covered landscape. Besides the spectacular views, the golf course offers an excellent challenge. It has hosted many prestigious events including the Home Internationals, the Irish Close and the Irish Professional Match Play Championship.
Ballyliffin
Last but certainly not least we come to Ballyliffin. Tucked away at the Northern tip of Donegal, Ballyliffin hosted the Irish Open in 2018. Ballyliffin has been described as one of the best kept secrets in Irish golf. Improvements made by Nick Faldo have taken it to the next level, and serve to further enhance Ballyliffin’s reputation.