Craig Morrison was inspired to write about the 18 greatest Irish golf holes as a natural extension of his passion for the game and his exploration of its rich history and beauty. His book, The Meaning of Golf, reflects a deep appreciation for the sport, showcasing its challenges and the emotional connections it fosters among players. In this work, Morrison travels to iconic golfing locations, including Ireland, where he immerses himself in the landscapes and stories that define the sport.
The book features holes from 18 Irish golf courses, including famous links and parkland courses. This suggests Morrison aimed for a representative sample of Ireland’s best golf offerings.
We take a closer look at the 18 holes in the book, giving our opinion on the listed Emerald Isle courses.
The European Club, 7th hole, par-4
Lahinch Golf Club, Old Course, 6th hole, par-4
The K Club, Palmer North Course, 16th hole, par-4
Tralee Golf Club, 16th hole, par-3
Enniscrone Golf Club, The Dunes, 16th hole, par-5
Lough Erne, The Faldo Course, 10th hole, par-4
Druid’s Glen, 13th hole, par-4
Portmarnock Golf Club, 15th hole, par-3
Royal County Down, 9th hole, par-4
Adare Manor, 13th hole, par-4
Old Head Golf Links, 12th hole, par-5
Royal Portrush Golf Club, 13th hole, par-3
Rosapenna, Sandy Hills Links, 6th hole, par-4
Ballyliffin Golf Club, Glashedy Links, 13th hole, par-5
Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg, 14th hole, par-3
Waterville Golf Links, 11th hole, par-5
Ballybunion Golf Club, 11th hole, par-4
Mahony’s Point at Killarney, 18th hole, par 3
The European Club
Hole 7 – par 4
The 7th hole at The European Club is a striking par-4 that stands out as a test of both skill and nerve for visiting golfers. Measuring 470 yards, this hole is often referred to as one of the world’s 100 best holes and is notorious for its challenging layout.
The beauty of the landscape is breathtaking from the tee, the hole is set against a backdrop of rolling dunes and the Irish Sea, making it visually stunning yet intimidating. The fairway, flanked by tall grass and reeds, creates a sense of both beauty and peril.
The fairway appears narrow, bordered by a river on the right and dense marshland on the left. This layout requires precise shot placement, as stray balls can easily lead to trouble. From the tee, hitting straight is crucial. The challenge intensifies as you make your way down the fairway, with many golfers second-guessing their club selection and strategy. The approach to the green demands accuracy; any miscalculation can result in a difficult recovery.
For many, this hole can be a scorecard wrecker. The combination of length and hazards often leads to frustration. As one golfer noted, their scorecard was left in tatters after this hole, emphasizing how it can disrupt an otherwise steady round.
Playing the 7th hole at The European Club is not just about making par; it’s an experience that tests your mental fortitude and golfing skills. The blend of natural beauty and strategic complexity makes it a memorable challenge that every golfer should tackle at least once.
Lahinch Golf Club
Hole 6 (Old Course) – par 4
The 6th hole at Lahinch (Old Course) is a striking par-4 that presents both a challenge and a breathtaking experience for amateur golfers. As I approach the tee, the first thing that strikes me is the stunning landscape—rolling dunes and the vast expanse of Liscannor Bay in the distance. The view is nothing short of mesmerizing, making it easy to forget the task at hand.
The hole doglegs left, which adds an element of strategy to shot selection. The gofler must consider the drive carefully; a well-placed tee shot can set up a perfect approach shot, but stray too far right, and the risk of landing in one of the notorious bunkers that dot the hole increases. These bunkers are often referred to as a “nightmare” for many players, they can quickly turn a good round into a frustrating one.
After navigating the drive, the approach shot usually requires precision. The green is elevated and surrounded by undulating terrain, making it tricky to gauge distance and wind. Once on the green take an extra moment to line up the putt, as the contours of the green can be deceptive.
Playing this hole feels like a rite of passage for any golfer. The combination of natural beauty and strategic complexity makes it memorable. Each round here is a reminder of why the game of golf is loved by many, challenging yet rewarding, with every shot echoing against the backdrop of Ireland’s rugged coastline.
The K Club
Hole 16 (Palmer North Course) – par 4
Golfers will face a strong headwind on the 16th, with several trees positioned on the left and a creek bordering the right side of the landing zone. Consequently, it is essential to land on the fairway. The green is flanked by a lake on both the front left and right, with the River Liffey visible in the background. A precise second shot is required to reach the green. In numerous competitions, a par 4 is often sufficient to secure victory on this hole.
Playing this hole is an experience that combines beauty with challenge. It’s a moment where you feel part of something greater, reminiscent of the pros who have played here during prestigious tournaments like the Ryder Cup. For an amateur golfer, it’s a mix of excitement and humility—each shot is an opportunity to learn and improve while enjoying one of Ireland’s top golf courses.
Tralee Golf Links
Hole 16 – par 3
As you approach the 16th hole at Tralee Golf Club, known as “Shipwreck,” the anticipation will build. This par-3 stretches to nearly 200 yards, and the view from the tee is nothing short of breathtaking. The green perched precariously against the backdrop of crashing Atlantic waves, nestled among rugged dunes, makes it hard to believe you are about to play one of the most dramatic holes in golf.
The green is perched precariously close to the cliff edge, framed by dunes on the left and rear while the ocean hugs the right side. This positioning creates a small target that can be extremely difficult to hit and hold, especially in windy conditions. The safe play is typically to aim for the left side of the green, away from the ocean. However, this brings the surrounding dunes into play, potentially leaving a challenging recovery shot
The 16th hole at Tralee Golf Club is not just a golf hole; it’s an experience. It combines the raw beauty of Ireland’s coastline with the strategic challenges of links golf, creating a par-3 that is as unforgettable as it is formidable.
Enniscrone Golf Club
Hole 16 – par 5
The 16th hole at Enniscrone Golf Club, a par 5 measuring 545 yards, is often celebrated as one of the finest holes on the course. This striking hole runs parallel to the Atlantic Ocean, with coastal dunes providing a dramatic backdrop and a sense of seclusion.
The fairway slopes gently toward the water, creating a visually stunning approach. There are no bunkers to navigate, but players must contend with the natural elements—strong winds and tall fescue grasses that can complicate shots and protect par from all but the most skilled golfers.
The surrounding dunes and ocean views enhance the golfing experience, making this hole not only a test of skill but also a feast for the eyes. The combination of rugged terrain and coastal scenery epitomises the links golf experience in Ireland.
Lough Erne
Hole 10 (Faldo Course) – par 4
The signature hole on The Faldo Course at Lough Erne is the 10th, a golfing feat that measures 300 yards and requires precision to reach the green, which is surrounded by water on three sides.
The hole’s short length makes it potentially drivable for long hitters, adding an element of excitement and decision-making to the tee shot. Players must weigh the risk of attempting to reach the green in one shot against the safer option of laying up to avoid the water hazards.
Adding to its allure, the 10th hole offers spectacular views over Lower Lough Erne, living up to its poetic “Emerald Isle” name. The combination of strategic challenge, visual drama, and natural beauty makes this hole a standout feature of the Faldo Course and a favourite among golfers visiting Lough Erne Resort.
Druids Glen
Hole 13 – par 4
The hole is distinguished by its dramatic setting, featuring a gorse and flower-covered cliff wall along the right side. This picturesque backdrop not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds to the challenge of the hole.
Golfers must navigate their drive over a water hazard, aiming to avoid the bushes that mark the elbow of the hazard. Precision is crucial, as overshooting can lead to difficult recovery shots. The second shot requires careful consideration of the green’s layout, which is well-protected and demands accuracy.
The combination of natural beauty and strategic design makes this hole a standout feature of Druids Glen, often cited as one of the most beautiful golf holes in the world
Portmarnock Golf Club
Hole 15 – par 3
The 15th stands out for its stunning coastal setting, offering breathtaking views of the Irish Sea and the adjacent beach. The green is long and narrow, approximately twice as long as it is wide, making it a challenging target from the tee. Three strategically placed bunkers guard the putting surface, adding to the hole’s difficulty.
Given the coastal location, wind is often a significant factor. Carefully assess the wind direction and strength before selecting your club. The right side of the hole is particularly perilous, as shots sailing too far right will find the beach. It’s generally safer to aim for the left side of the green. The three bunkers surrounding the green can make par saves extremely difficult. Try to land your tee shot on the putting surface or, if you must miss, favour the left side where there’s more room to work with.
In true links fashion, don’t be afraid to play a low, running shot if conditions allow. This can be an effective strategy, especially in windy conditions. Given the green’s length and the surrounding hazards, aiming for the centre of the putting surface is often the smartest play, regardless of pin position
The 15th at Portmarnock is not just a visual spectacle but also a true test of golfing skill. Arnold Palmer considered it one of the best par-3 holes in the world, and it continues to challenge and inspire golfers from around the globe. Successfully navigating this hole requires a combination of precise ball-striking, smart decision-making, and perhaps a touch of Irish luck.
Royal County Down
Hole 9 (Championship Course) – par 4
The 9th hole on the Championship Course is a striking par 4 that exemplifies the beauty and challenge of this renowned championship course. Measuring nearly 500 yards from the back tees, it requires skill and strategy to navigate its unique features.
The hole begins with a blind tee shot played from a high mound, dropping down to a fairway approximately 60 feet below. Golfers must aim carefully, hugging the large dune on the left side of the fairway to set up an ideal approach to the green. While there is more room to the right, this line is less favourable for the subsequent shot.
The fairway is flanked by two strategically placed cross bunkers about 50 yards short of the green, adding to the complexity of the hole. Players must also be cautious of a greenside bunker on the right and two pot bunkers on the left, complicating recovery shots.
After navigating the fairway, players face a second shot that must carry over these bunkers to reach a raised green. This green is known for its undulating surface, requiring precise putting skills, especially when approaching from back to front.
Overall, the 9th hole at Royal County Down is a remarkable blend of scenic beauty and challenging golf architecture. It encapsulates what makes this course one of the finest in the world, demanding both technical proficiency and strategic thinking from golfers at all levels.
Adare Manor
Hole 13 – par 4
The course at Adare Manor, originally designed by Robert Trent Jones Senior, has been highly regarded by golfers worldwide for over two decades. During the recent redevelopment, it was decided that the course needed a complete redesign, leading to the commission of renowned architect Tom Fazio to reimagine it from the ground up.
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The 13th hole at Adare Manor is a standout par 4 that showcases the course’s exceptional design and beauty. The drive from the tee is crucial; players are advised to aim left, where the fairway slopes down to the right. This design offers a good angle into the green, enhancing the chances for an effective approach shot.
Precision is key here; players need to carefully gauge their distance and aim for specific areas of the green to avoid treacherous run-offs that can lead to difficult up-and-down situations. The 13th hole at Adare Manor is not just a test of skill but also a celebration of golf’s beauty in a parkland setting. It exemplifies the thoughtful design of Tom Fazio, who transformed this historic course into a premier golfing destination. With its combination of challenge and stunning scenery, it is often regarded as one of the best holes on the course and in world golf
Old Head Golf Links
Hole 12 – par 5
Perched approximately 300 feet above sea level, the 12th hole offers golfers a striking view from the tee, where the fairway appears to dangle over the edge of the cliffs. The hole begins with a narrow drive that must be carefully placed to avoid the steep drop into the ocean on the left. This precarious positioning makes for an intimidating tee shot, particularly when wind conditions are unfavorable, adding an extra layer of difficulty to an already challenging hole.
The tee shot requires precision, as players must aim towards a narrow fairway that is bordered by cliffs. A common strategy is to play down the right side to avoid disaster on the left. The approach shot to the green is equally daunting, as it sits on a ridge that overlooks the ocean, making it essential for golfers to manage their distance and trajectory carefully. Any miscalculation can lead to lost balls in the water below.
The prevailing southwesterly winds often complicate play, pushing shots off course and requiring golfers to adjust their strategies accordingly. This par five is not only about distance but also about accuracy and nerve, making it a true test of skill for golfers of all levels.
Royal Portrush
Hole 13 (Dunluce Links) – par 3
The 13th hole at Royal Portrush’s Dunluce Links, known as “Feather Bed,” is a picturesque and challenging par-3. One of the most striking aspects of this hole is the significant elevation change from tee to green. The tee shot is played downhill, which affects club selection and shot strategy.
Due to the downhill nature of the hole, it plays shorter than the yardage suggests. Players must factor this in when selecting their club. The most challenging pin position is typically to the front and left of the green. This placement brings all the surrounding bunkers into play and tests a player’s precision.
The hole combines beauty and challenge, requiring both skill and strategy to navigate successfully. Its downhill tee shot, small target, and surrounding hazards make it a memorable and pivotal hole in any round at this prestigious course.
Rosapenna Golf Links
Hole 6 (Sandy Hills) – par 4
The 6th hole at Rosapenna’s Sandy Hills Links is a challenging and visually striking par 4 that showcases the dramatic dune landscape of the course.
The hole is a difficult par 4, with the tee shot requiring precision to navigate through a narrow “gate” between towering dunes. From the elevated tee, players face a blind drive, adding an element of uncertainty and strategy to the hole.
After passing through the dune corridor, the fairway opens up and falls away towards the green, creating a downhill approach shot. This change in elevation provides golfers with a spectacular view, as the green seems to blend into the horizon with Sheephaven Bay and Muckish Mountain forming a breathtaking backdrop
The green complex is designed as an “infinity” style putting surface, appearing to merge with the scenery beyond. A notable feature is the hollow positioned in front of the green, which complicates run-up shots and demands precise distance control on approach.
Going long over the green is particularly perilous, as the terrain falls away sharply beyond the putting surface. This forces players to carefully consider club selection and shot trajectory when attacking the pin.
Ballyliffin Golf Club
Hole 13 (Glashedy Links) – par 5
The 13th hole on the Glashedy Links course at Ballyliffin, known as Bun a’Chnoic (Bottom of the Hill), is a standout feature of this championship links course located in County Donegal, Ireland. This par-5 hole stretches to just over 570 yards and presents a challenging yet rewarding experience for golfers.
The hole plays uphill through a stunning landscape of dunes, which adds to both the scenic beauty and the difficulty. Bunkers are strategically placed on either side of the fairway and behind the green, demanding precision in both drives and approach shots to avoid penalties from these hazards
The elevated green is large and undulating, making accurate approaches essential for setting up birdie opportunities or avoiding three-putts. Wind conditions can significantly affect play on this hole, as is common on links courses. Golfers may need to adjust their strategies based on prevailing winds, which can change how they approach their shots.
The combination of its strategic design and picturesque setting makes it a memorable part of any round played at Ballyliffin.
Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg
Hole 14 – par 3
The 14th is a downhill par-3 that presents golfers with a stunning vista as they approach the tee box. The green is set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, with the clubhouse visible in the distance across the bay. This picturesque setting makes it the signature hole of the course, capturing the essence of links golf in Ireland.
Despite its relatively short length, the 14th hole presents several challenges to golfers. The hole was reimagined along with several others as part of course improvements.
The 14th hole at Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg stands out as a prime example of the dramatic and challenging golf that Ireland’s links courses are famous for, combining natural beauty with strategic design.
Waterville Golf Links
Hole 11 – par 5
Gary Player has described the 11th hole as “the most beautiful and satisfying par five of them all,” highlighting its appeal among golf enthusiasts. Additionally, it has been praised for its design and integration into the natural landscape, making it a memorable experience for those who play it.
Known as Tranquility, the hole is a stunning par 5 that stretches just shy of 500 yards through a narrow passage flanked by towering dunes. This hole is often celebrated for its breathtaking beauty and serene atmosphere, making it one of the most picturesque spots on the course.
Golfers are encouraged to hit their tee shots strategically to avoid the deep bunkers that can come into play. A well-placed drive down the left side can set up a favorable angle for the second shot. The approach to the green requires careful consideration of both distance and wind conditions, as players must navigate the undulating terrain of the dunes. The green itself is elevated and may be influenced by the coastal winds, demanding precision in putting.
Ballybuion Golf Club
Hole 11 (Old Course) – par 4
The 11th hole on the Old Course at Ballybunion Golf Club in Ireland is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular and challenging par 4s in the world of golf. This iconic hole, affectionately known as “Watson’s” after Tom Watson’s fondness for it, is a true test of skill and strategy.
Aim your drive down the boundary line, as the prevailing wind typically blows from the sea3. A well-struck tee shot should travel about 300 yards before encountering the more dramatic terrain changes. The hole typically plays directly into the prevailing wind, which comes from the right and slightly in your face. This makes reaching the green in regulation a significant challenge.
The approach shot must navigate through a bottleneck opening to reach a green fronted by a valley and surrounded by dunescape.
The 11th on the Old Course at Ballybunion is as much about strategy and course management as it is about pure ball-striking. Respect the elements, trust your club selection, and enjoy one of golf’s most exhilarating challenges.
Killarney Golf & Fishing Club
Hole 18 (Mahony’s Point) – par 3
The 18th hole at Mahony’s Point, Killarney Golf & Fishing Club, is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular and memorable finishing holes in golf. This par-3 masterpiece offers breathtaking views of the famous Killarney Lakes and the majestic McGillicuddy Reeks mountain range, creating a stunning backdrop for your final shot
It’s a challenging par-3 that requires precision and nerves of steel. The green is perched on the edge of Lough Leane, with the lake bordering the entire right side of the hole and wrapping around behind the green.
Pay close attention to wind direction and strength. The exposed location near the lake can make wind a significant factor in your shot’s trajectory. While focus is crucial, take a moment to appreciate the spectacular scenery. The stunning vista might help calm your nerves before this challenging final shot.
The 18th at Mahony’s Point is designed to be a memorable conclusion to your round, regardless of the outcome, so embrace the challenge and enjoy the experience.
