Great Value Golf Courses in Western Ireland
Ballinrobe
Set in the grounds of an old agricultural college, Ballinrobe is a superb parkland test. A long course with a par of 73 each hole is extremely well defined and a variety of natural features and an old stone kiln provide added interest. Ballinrobe is always in super condition adding to the pleasure.
Carne Hackett
On the remote Belmullet peninsula, in the far northwest corner of County Mayo, the links at Carne is, without a shadow of doubt, one of the great links courses in the world. Its remote location is a possible reason why this course is relatively unknown, but for any discerning links golfer it is simply unmissable.
Castlebar
Castlebar is set in beautiful countryside with mature trees lining the fairways. Peter McEvoy and then Jeff Howes completed the original Hackett layout by adding water features and bunkering as well as 18 USGA specification greens making Castlebar a terrific course at a terrific price. At less than 6,000 yards this is a course for the strategically inclined golfer.
East Clare
East Clare is an Arthur Spring designed golf course in the pleasant rolling pasture land of east County Clare near the village of Bodyke. There is a variety of holes to maintain interest and the consistency of the course is particularly noticeable. There are numerous water features and large multi-tiered greens.
Galway
Galway is a classic parkland golf course that offers a stern and varied challenge in a wonderful setting adjacent to and overlooking Galway Bay. It is particularly attractive when the abundant gorse is in full bloom, complementing the views offered, perticularly on the second nine, over Galway Bay.
Gort
The course is set on the edge of the world renowned Burren and offers a unique opportunity to play golf while enjoying the panoramic view of the Clare hills, Sliabh Aughty, Coole Park and the famed Mullaghmore. Designed by Christy O'Connor Junior who regards the four par 3s as among the best on offer at any course in Ireland
Shannon
Shannon is built on 150 acres of land wedged between Shannon Airport and the shore of Shannon Estuary. It offers a fine and varied challenge with mature, deciduous trees sometimes lining both sides of the fairway. There is also a central lake and exposed shoreline holes, particularly the 211-yard 17th which is the signature hole.
Westport
One of the finest parkland courses in Ireland is to be found on the shores of Clew Bay at Westport Golf Club. A Fred Hawtree masterpiece that begins gently and builds continuously to a thrilling climax along the shore. Fine views of the island strewn bay dominated by Ireland's holy mountain, Croagh Patrick.
Woodstock
Just outside Ennis in pleasing surroundings is Woodstock, a course designed by Arthur Spring. Built on gently undulating, relatively open terrain Woodstock features its very own Amen Corner around a large lake and a very strong finishing stretch.
