GOLF in Ireland’s county DONEGAL

Donegal Golf Club (Murvagh): Situated on the Murvagh Peninsula near Donegal Town, Donegal Golf Club is a championship 18-hole par-73 links course (7,450 yards) designed by Eddie Hackett in 1973 and enhanced by Pat Ruddy in 1992 and 2017. Often called the “Muirfield of Ireland,” it features two loops, outer (counterclockwise) and inner (clockwise), with panoramic views of Donegal Bay and the Bluestack Mountains. Known for its challenging length, wind-influenced play, and stunning dunes, it’s a bucket-list course for serious golfers, praised for its beauty and hospitality. The 5th hole, “Valley of Tears,” a 196-yard par-3. This semi-blind tee shot crosses a deep valley to a narrow plateau green guarded by bunkers, requiring precise club selection. Its dramatic setting and difficulty make it iconic, often causing “tears” for pros and amateurs alike.
Ballyliffin Golf Club (Glashedy Links): Located in Inishowen, Ballyliffin boasts two championship links courses, with Glashedy Links (7,270 yards, par-72), designed by Pat Ruddy and Tom Craddock in 1995, being the more prominent for visitors. Host of the 2018 Irish Open, it’s celebrated for its rugged terrain, turtleback greens, and North Atlantic exposure, a stern test with spectacular views of Glashedy Island. Visitors praise its world-class presentation and hospitality, making it a top links destination. The 7th hole, a 176-yard par-3. This elevated tee shot plays to a green set against the ocean, with wind and bunkers adding challenge. Its scenic beauty and strategic demands make it a standout, often highlighted in reviews.
Rosapenna Golf Resort (St. Patrick’s Links): Rosapenna, near Sheephaven Bay, offers three links courses, with St. Patrick’s Links (7,254 yards, par-73), designed by Tom Doak in 2021, being the most acclaimed. Ranked among Ireland’s top courses, it features vast dunes, deep bunkers, and Atlantic views, blending modern design with traditional links charm. Visitors love its challenging yet fair layout, luxury hotel, and proximity to Old Tom Morris and Sandy Hills Links, ideal for a golfing break. The 8th hole, a 450-yard par-4. This dramatic hole plays along a ridge with a fairway dropping into a bowl-shaped green, framed by dunes and sea views. Its bold design and scenic impact make it a visitor favourite.
Narin & Portnoo Links: Set on a rugged headland near Narin, this 18-hole par-73 links course (6,800 yards), redesigned by Gil Hanse in 2018, is a hidden gem awarded “Best Hidden Gem in Ulster” in 2019. Its rolling fairways, towering dunes, and views of Gweebarra Bay offer a thrilling yet playable experience. Visitors highlight its natural beauty, welcoming atmosphere, and value, making it a must-play in Donegal. The 6th hole, a 170-yard par-3. Played from an elevated tee to a green perched above the beach, with the Atlantic and dunes as a backdrop, it demands precision amid stunning scenery, a highlight.
Cruit Island Golf Club: Cruit Island (pronounced “Crutch”) is a 9-hole par-68 links course (5,392 yards) on a remote island connected by a causeway. Designed by locals in 1986, it’s dubbed the “greatest 9-hole course on earth” for its jaw-dropping cliffs, quirky terrain, and views rivaling Pebble Beach at a fraction of the cost. Visitors rave about its adventure, wildlife (e.g., dolphins), and warm welcome, perfect for a unique golfing experience. The 6th hole, a 190-yard par-3. This breathtaking hole requires a tee shot over a rocky inlet to a cliff-edge green, with waves crashing below. Its dramatic setting and challenge make it one of Ireland’s most memorable holes.
Portsalon Golf Club: Founded in 1891, Portsalon is an 18-hole par-72 links course (6,700 yards) along Ballymastocker Bay, ranked in Ireland’s top 25 by Golf Digest. Its seaside setting, framed by the Knockalla Mountains, offers stunning views and a classic links challenge with moguls and firm greens. Visitors appreciate its forgiving fairways, excellent greens, and warm hospitality, ideal for a scenic golfing day. The 2nd hole, a 400-yard par-4. This picturesque hole runs along the beach, requiring a drive over a burn to a fairway framed by dunes, with a green offering panoramic bay views. Its beauty and strategic play make it iconic.

County Donegal:

Ireland’s county Donegal is a land of wild coastlines and Gaelic heritage, with Slieve League’s towering sea cliffs offering some of Europe’s highest coastal views. Glenveagh National Park features a historic castle and sprawling gardens amidst rugged mountains. The beaches of Bundoran and the traditional tweed workshops of Ardara make Donegal an engaging destination for nature and cultural enthusiasts. The Grianan of Aileach stone fort adds ancient intrigue and splendid views. Donegal is Ireland’s fourth largest county by size (4,830 square km) and 13th largest by population (167,084). Population peaked at 296,448 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 108,344 in 1971. In terms of hospitality, Donegal is also Ireland’s 13th most visited tourist county with around 199,000 international visitors per year.

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