GOLF in Ireland’s county KILKENNY

Mount Juliet Golf Club: Situated in Thomastown, Mount Juliet is an 18-hole par-72 parkland course (7,300 yards), designed by Jack Nicklaus in 1991. Set within a 1,500-acre estate, it’s one of Ireland’s premier courses, hosting the 2002 and 2004 Irish Opens and the 2021 Irish Challenge. Its rolling fairways, water hazards, and manicured greens, framed by the River Nore, offer a championship experience. Visitors praise its luxury resort, pristine condition, and proximity to Kilkenny City (15 minutes). The 3rd hole, a 210-yard par-3. This stunning hole requires a tee shot over a lake to a green surrounded by bunkers, with the estate’s woodlands as a backdrop. Its beauty and precision demand make it iconic.
Kilkenny Golf Club: Located in Glendine, just outside Kilkenny City, this 18-hole par-71 parkland course (6,260 yards), founded in 1896, features tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkers, and views of the Nore Valley. Its challenging yet forgiving layout suits all skill levels, and its proximity to the city (5 minutes) makes it a favourite for visitors combining golf with cultural exploration. The welcoming clubhouse enhances its appeal. The 14th hole, a 165-yard par-3. This scenic hole plays to a green guarded by a pond and bunkers, with rolling countryside views. Its combination of challenge and aesthetic appeal stands out.
Gowran Park Golf Club: Situated in Gowran, this 18-hole par-71 parkland course (6,600 yards), opened in 2001, is set within the famous Gowran Park Racecourse. Its flat terrain, water hazards, and large greens offer an enjoyable challenge, with views of Kilkenny’s countryside. Visitors appreciate its modern facilities, affordability, and unique racecourse setting, located 20 minutes from Kilkenny City. The 10th hole, a 400-yard par-4. This dogleg right requires a strategic drive to avoid water and a precise approach to a green protected by bunkers, with the racecourse grandstand adding a distinctive backdrop. Its tactical design is a highlight.
Callan Golf Club: Located in Callan, this 18-hole par-70 parkland course (5,800 yards), established in 1929, is a hidden gem set in rolling countryside. Its compact layout, with tree-lined fairways and small greens, offers a classic challenge suitable for all levels. Visitors enjoy its tranquil setting, warm hospitality, and affordability, making it a great stop 20 minutes from Kilkenny City. The 7th hole, a 150-yard par-3. This picturesque hole requires a tee shot to a green surrounded by trees and a stream, with Kilkenny’s pastoral landscape in view. Its scenic charm and precision demand make it memorable.

County Kilkenny:

Ireland’s county Kilkenny is a county of medieval charm, with Kilkenny City’s castle and St Canice’s Cathedral showcasing well-preserved architecture and round towers. The Dunmore Cave offers intriguing limestone formations, while the Nore Valley’s walking trails provide scenic beauty. Other attractions include the historic Jerpoint Abbey’s intricate carvings. Kilkenny is Ireland’s 16th largest county by size (2,062 square km) and 21st largest by population (104,160). Population peaked at 202,420 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 60,463 in 1966. In terms of hospitality, Kilkenny is Ireland’s eleventh most visited tourist county with around 207,000 international visitors per year.

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