Doonbeg

County Clare, Ireland
065-9055602
Driving Directions

Resort, 18 holes,

As Greg Norman proved this summer at the British Open, he still knows his way around a great links course. At Doonbeg, on the southwest coast of Ireland, the Great Gray Shark showed that he knows how to design one, too.

Doonbeg debuted in 2002 to acclaim for its beauty and criticism for its difficulty. The owners widened some fairways, yanked out the odd bunker and removed plots of ball-swallowing rough (under protest from Norman). The result is improved playability and a faster pace of play. It's still a beast when the wind howls, but it's a more fun experience. There are a couple of unforgettable holes -- the par-4 6th with an elevated tee overlooking the beach and dunes, and the tiny 111-yard 14th, which Norman likens to the 7th at Pebble Beach -- that will bring you back in any weather.

Although it is overshadowed by other great links courses in this corner of Ireland -- Ballybunion, Lahinch, and Waterville, among others -- Doonbeg is no "next-best" layout. It deserves a spot on your Irish all-star lineup.

STAYING HERE
At Doonbeg's two-year-old Lodge, suites range from one to four bedrooms and have all the comforts of home -- if your home has a spa, great food and ocean views. Fall prices start at $509 for a one-bedroom suite and rise to $1,408 for a four-bedroom suite. Call 011-353-65-9055600 or visit doonbeggolfclub.com

Design - Golf Course at Doonbeg

• Year Built:
• Designer:
• Greens Grass Type: Not Available
• Fairways Grass Type: Not Available
• Water Hazards: Not Available
• Sand Bunkers: Not Available
• Yardage Markers: Not Available

More Information - Golf Course at Doonbeg

• Green Fee:
• Driving Range: N/A
• Training Facilities: None
• Rental Clubs: N/A
• Carts: N/A
• Pullcarts: N/A
• Caddies: N/A
• Walking: N/A
• Food: No
• Bar: No
• Homes on Course: N/A