The joys of playing golf in Cork, Kerry, and the West of Ireland

There are few better ways to experience the breathtaking landscapes of Ireland than by playing golf on some of its most scenic courses. In the southwest and west of Ireland, counties such as Cork, Kerry, and the western coastal gems offer an unparalleled golfing experience, combining world-class courses with rich history, stunning vistas, and the warm hospitality for which Ireland is famous. Whether you’re teeing off against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean or playing on a course that has hosted legendary tournaments, golf in this part of Ireland is nothing short of magical.

Golfing with a view: the scenic beauty of Ireland’s courses

One of the greatest joys of playing golf in Cork, Kerry, and the West of Ireland is the sheer beauty of the landscapes that surround you. The dramatic coastline, rolling hills, and rugged cliffs provide a spectacular setting for a round of golf, making every shot feel like a special moment in nature.

In Kerry, the world-renowned Waterville Golf Links is a prime example of this harmony between sport and scenery. Situated on the Ring of Kerry, this course offers awe-inspiring views of the Atlantic and the nearby mountains. The constantly shifting winds add an extra challenge, ensuring that no two rounds are ever the same.

Further north, Lahinch Golf Club in County Clare is another must-visit destination for golfers who appreciate breathtaking scenery. With views over Liscannor Bay and the Cliffs of Moher nearby, the course provides a perfect mix of natural beauty and challenging play, making it one of Ireland’s premier links courses.

Meanwhile, in Cork, Old Head Golf Links is one of the most visually dramatic golf courses in the world. Jutting out into the Atlantic, this course sits on a headland with 300-foot cliffs dropping into the ocean on all sides. Playing a round here feels like stepping into a postcard, and the combination of wind, terrain, and spectacular views creates an unforgettable experience.

A rich history of golf

Beyond the stunning scenery, golf in this part of Ireland is steeped in history. Many of the courses in Cork, Kerry, and the West of Ireland date back more than a century, with strong ties to the traditions of the game and to some of golf’s greatest figures.

Ballybunion Golf Club, founded in 1893, has long been regarded as one of the finest links courses in the world. With its challenging layout and coastal winds, it has tested the skills of many professional golfers over the decades, including Tom Watson, who has praised it as one of his favorite places to play. The club’s rich history, combined with its stunning dunes and sweeping ocean views, makes it a must-visit for any golfer.

Another historic gem is Tralee Golf Club, which was designed by Arnold Palmer and opened in 1984. While it may not be as old as some other courses, its location is steeped in history, with the area once home to Spanish Armada shipwrecks and medieval settlements. The course itself offers a mix of challenging holes, pristine fairways, and spectacular sea views, making it a fantastic blend of past and present.

For those visiting the west, Connemara Golf Links in County Galway provides a unique historical and natural experience. Surrounded by the Twelve Bens mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean, this course is known for its rugged beauty and the feeling of playing in one of Ireland’s last great wildernesses.

The value of local expertise and comfortable travel

Planning a golf trip to these incredible courses is an exciting prospect, but to truly make the most of the experience, having local knowledge can be invaluable. Many of these prestigious courses have high demand, and securing the best tee times—especially for groups—can be challenging without insider connections.

That’s why working with someone who knows the region and its golf scene can make all the difference. A local expert can handle all the arrangements, from booking the most convenient tee times to ensuring smooth transitions between courses. Whether it’s recommending the best courses based on your group’s skill level or suggesting hidden gems that might not be on every golfer’s radar, having a guide with deep local knowledge adds an extra layer of ease and enjoyment to the trip.

Equally important is comfortable and convenient transportation. Many of these stunning golf courses are located in remote or coastal areas, making reliable travel arrangements essential. A spacious and comfortable vehicle can transform the journey from course to course into a relaxing and scenic adventure. Instead of worrying about navigating winding Irish roads, players can sit back, enjoy the views, and focus on their next round of golf.

A golfing experience unlike any other

Golf in Cork, Kerry, and the West of Ireland is about much more than just playing the game. It’s about immersing yourself in landscapes that are as beautiful as they are challenging, stepping onto courses rich with history, and experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the Irish people. It’s about those moments when you tee off with the Atlantic stretching out before you, the wind in your face, and the sense that you’re playing a round in one of the most stunning places on earth.

For those seeking an unforgettable golfing journey, this part of Ireland offers everything you could hope for—and more. With the help of local expertise to arrange the details and comfortable travel to take you to each course, all that’s left to do is focus on your game and soak in the incredible surroundings. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or simply looking to experience the magic of Irish golf for the first time, Cork, Kerry, and the West of Ireland promise a golfing adventure you’ll never forget.