K-Club South Golf Course
Straffan, County Kildare
The South Course at The K Club opened in 2003 and was also designed by Arnold Palmer. Overshadowed by the more famous North (Ryder Cup) Course the South Course nonetheless is a chamionship test the offers a thrilling test of golf in its own right. It features wide fairways, deep bunkering, and several water hazards that demand strategic shot-making. Designed to be a complete contrat to the North Course the South has a more open layout with large, undulating greens and risk-reward opportunities throughout the round.
K-Club South Course Description
Playing to a par 72 and stretching over 7,300 yards from the back tees, the South Course features generous fairways, deep bunkering, and significant water hazards that influence several key holes. The fairways are framed by mature trees and natural wetlands, while the River Liffey weaves through the landscape, adding both beauty and challenge. Wind exposure can also play a role, requiring thoughtful club selection throughout the round. While the course provides scoring opportunities, its strategic design ensures that risk-taking must be carefully measured.
The signature holes include the par-5 7th, where water guards both the landing area and the green, making it a true risk-reward hole for long hitters. The par-4 17th is another standout, demanding both length and accuracy to navigate its hazards successfully. The final hole provides a dramatic finish, with an approach shot over water to a well-bunkered green that can make or break a round.
The South Course hosted The European Open 13 times between 1995 and 2007 with winners including Langer, Clarke, Westwood, Goosen and Montgomerie.
