Castlemartyr

There are no more than a few courses in Ireland that were designed as inland ‘links’… and Castlemartyr is one of them.

It has that low rhythmic flow that makes links golf so enjoyable, but the wind will be far less of a burden here as you target the generous fairways and silk-like greens. It is elegant golf.

The boundary of the course is deep woodland which highlights the stark openness of the fairways. Your draw or fade will rarely be threatened so you can open the shoulders and drive to your heart’s content.

But, a word of warning, the bumps and ridges, which are home to deep rough, are not to be trifled with. There is also a small creek which runs across several holes.

Castlemartyr is a shortish course (par 72, 6,262 yards, middle tees) – on the front nine especially – cleverly routed around the resort’s magnificent five star hotel. This ‘Manor House’ dates back to the 17th century.

Favourite Hole: the par four 16th has the best views from the corner of the course, and the tip of the flag is visible in front of the old castle walls.

What's in the Bag? Accuracy over length, but you can swing away if you prefer. Look out for the castle on the drive in: it was first built in 1210 by The Knights Templar.

Click link to view full list of “DG Ireland Top 150 Courses 2018”:
https://www.destinationgolf.travel/ireland-top150-2018/