From Royal Portrush to old bushmills, is the North of Ireland heaven on Earth?
From Dublin airport we drive two hours up Ireland's northeastern coast into Northern Ireland, to the first course of our trip - Ardglass Golf Club. This spectacular old style links and clifftop gem hugs a rugged headland on the County Down coastline, offering sea views from every hole. The course begins with a bang, where a line of cannons point the way to the green of the par-1st, followed by the daunting par-3 2nd, both requiring a carry across the coastline or cliff tops of the Irish Sea. Holes 11 and 12 (the Amen corner of Ardglass) are particularly exciting, set across from Coney Island made famous by Van Morrison, and on clear days you can see past the Irish Sea to the Isle of Man.
Protected by water on the right and wind bushes on the left, at the 488 yards par-5 11th it's essential to hit three straight shots to reach the green in regulation. As the course guide says: 'Play this hole with the same ball and be happy!' The par-3 12th is arguably the course's signature hole, drawing comparisons with the famous 17th hole at Pebble Beach. The view from the elevated tee, with a backdrop of the Irish Sea and the majesty of the brooding Mourne Mountains is worth the green fee alone.
Ardglass is home to one of the oldest and most distinct clubhouses in Northern Ireland and Ireland - a castle that dates back to the 12th century. We hole out on the final green and then enjoy some cold beers on the rooftop turret bar. As the late afternoon sun casts long shadows across this memorable course, we raise our glasses to the days ahead. Our accommodation for the night is the Slieve Donard Resort & Spa situated immediately adjacent to the world famous Royal County Down golf club, home to the 2015 Irish Open.
This story is from the July 2019 edition of Golf Asia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the July 2019 edition of Golf Asia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
PARTYING AT VIETNAM CENTRAL COAST
NOX Beach Club at Hoiana Resort Golf is poised to be Southeast Asia’s most spectacular gastronomical destination.
PERFORMANCE MOTORS TURNS 45
The authorised dealer of BMW celebrates its anniversary with transformation and expansion.
HIGH VOLTAGE CABRIO
McLaren unveils its first-ever high-performance hybrid convertible in the Artura Spider.
MUTUAL INSPIRATION
The new Mercedes-AMG G 63 Grand Edition” and IWC Schaffhausen Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 reflects the epitome in luxury co-branding.
IT'S ALL IN THE WRIST
The Byrne Gyro Dial Golf is the ultimate companion for watch collectors with a passion for the game.
PLEASURES IN THE PENINSULA
The Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia, is home to a treasure trove of great courses. Here are three you won't want to miss.
THAILAND SOCIAL
Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Social Golf 2024 in Sriracha brings out the best of golf in the region.
THE HUNT IS ON
Big names in golf will vie for honours at Foxhills Club Resort this August at the International Series England.
DAY FINDS LIGHT AT THE END OF LONG TUNNEL
Australian Jason Day turns his career around to winning ways again.
BATTLING RAHM
Rolex Testimonee and 87th Masters Tournament Champion Jon Rahm opens up on what it’s like claiming the coveted Green Jacket and being a 2023 Ryder Cup winner.