The European comes with all sorts of accolades – the best modern links course in the world chief among them – and a rich history that whirls around the legend who is Pat Ruddy. The European Club, put simply, is the course that Pat built.
Set on the Co. Wicklow coastline, next to Brittas Bay, this is a big, lilting and muscular test of golf. Pat does not design ‘easy’ courses; he makes you work for your par and The European is especially challenging off the tee. Several of the green sites are more forgiving, but only from the fairway… hit offline and the renowned railway-sleepered bunkers will cause you endless headaches.
The courses boasts 20 holes (two additional par threes) and while the Index 1 7th is rated as one of the best holes in the world, the 11th, 12th (with its longest green in Europe) and 17th may prove far more appealing.
Favourite Hole: the par four 17th drops down between steep dunes, towards a lone, bent tree. A thrilling drive and then a rise up to the green.
What's in the Bag? Intelligent golf required, especially to avoid the bunkers.
Click link to view full list of “DG Ireland Top 150 Courses 2016”:
http://www.destinationgolf.travel/dgireland-16/