- Old Head Golf Links: Situated on a dramatic 220-acre headland jutting two miles into the Atlantic near Kinsale, Old Head is one of the world’s most spectacular golf courses. Designed by John O’Connor and others in 1997, this 18-hole par-72 links (7,137 yards) features nine holes along cliff edges with 360-degree ocean views. Its challenging layout, ocean breezes, and sheer drops make it unforgettable, though green fees are premium. Visitors rave about the unique setting and luxury accommodations, making it a bucket-list destination. The 12th hole, a 564-yard par-5, known as “The Lighthouse.” Played along a cliff edge with the ocean on three sides, it requires a daring drive and strategic approach to a green near the Old Head lighthouse. The breathtaking views and risk-reward play make it iconic.
- Cork Golf Club: Founded in 1888 and redesigned by Alister MacKenzie in 1925, Cork Golf Club at Little Island is a championship par-72 parkland course (6,813 yards) blending limestone quarries and Lough Mahon’s shores. Its heath-like playing surface, MacKenzie greens, and quarry holes (6-10) offer variety and challenge. Host to Irish Opens, it’s praised for its condition, welcoming clubhouse, and proximity to Cork City, though some note signage issues. The 11th hole, a 401-yard par-4. Perched high on a quarry edge, the green demands a precise approach, with the “Seve Tree” marking where Ballesteros hit a 350-yard drive in 1983. The quarry setting and history make it a standout.
- Fota Island Golf Resort (Deerpark Course): Located on a 780-acre island near Cobh, Fota Island’s Deerpark is a par-71 parkland course (6,488 yards) designed by Christy O’Connor Jr. and Peter McEvoy, redesigned by Jeff Howes in 2000. A three-time Irish Open host (2001, 2002, 2014), it features woodland, water hazards, and receptive greens. Visitors enjoy its strategic design, resort amenities, and two additional courses (Belvelly, Barryscourt), ideal for golf breaks. The 8th hole, a 458-yard par-4. A tight fairway and water hazard demand an accurate tee shot, rewarding precision with a chance to attack the green. Its strategic layout and scenic woodland setting make it memorable.
- Douglas Golf Club: Established in 1909 and redesigned by Alister MacKenzie in 1924, Douglas is an 18-hole par-70 parkland course (6,117 yards) overlooking Cork City and Inner Harbour. Known for its immaculate greens, century-old woodland, and stunning views, it hosted the 2019 Best Parkland Course in Munster award. Visitors appreciate its challenging layout, secluded atmosphere, and proximity to Cork City. The 14th hole, a 171-yard par-3. This scenic hole requires a tee shot over a valley to a well-bunkered green, with Cork Harbour views adding to its appeal. Its precision demand and beauty stand out.
- Castlemartyr Golf Resort: Set on a historic manor estate in East Cork, Castlemartyr is an 18-hole par-72 inland-links-style course (6,728 yards) designed by Ron Kirby. Opened in 2009, it features rolling fairways, strategic bunkering, and water hazards, offering a modern challenge. The resort’s luxury hotel and dining enhance its appeal for visitors seeking a high-end golf holiday, with easy access from Cork City. The 17th hole, a 180-yard par-3. This picturesque hole demands a tee shot over water to a green framed by the estate’s landscape, combining challenge and aesthetic appeal.
- Kinsale Golf Club (Ringenane Course): Located near Kinsale, this 18-hole par-72 parkland course (6,455 yards), designed by J. Keneally in 1993, offers elevated views across County Cork and the Bandon River. Its gentle slopes, water features, and large pond near the 9th and 18th greens add spice. Visitors enjoy its natural charm, affordability, and welcoming clubhouse, though it’s overshadowed by Old Head nearby. The 18th hole, a 395-yard par-4. A large pond fronts the green, requiring a bold approach shot, while the clubhouse and Cork countryside provide a scenic finish.
County Cork:
Ireland’s county Cork blends historic sites with scenic beauty, with Cork City’s English Market and St Fin Barre’s Cathedral offering cultural and architectural depth. Blarney Castle, home to the famous Blarney Stone, provides historic allure, while the coastal town of Kinsale offers sailing and seafood. Other attractions include the Beara Peninsula’s rugged trails. Cork is Ireland’s largest county by size (7,460 sq km) and third largest by population (584,156). Population peaked at 854,118 in 1841 (when Cork was Ireland’s most populous county) and reached its lowest point, 330,443 in 1961. In terms of hospitality, Cork is Ireland’s second most visited tourist county with around 1,228,000 international visitors per year.
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