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8 day self-drive tour
OVERVIE
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Golfing Ireland’s Southwest
The Southwest of Ireland is known the world over for its stunning
landscapes, rich heritage and quaint town lands. But it’s also
one of the world’s favourite golf destinations. With so many
fantastic and varied courses in such close proximity to each
other, you can easily fit in a round of golf a day and still have
time to enjoy your surroundings.
On our Golf in the Southwest 8 Day self-drive tour you’ll start in
from Shannon, making your way south through Kerry and Cork
before looping back up north through Limerick and back to
Clare. You’ll get to experience a mixture of links and parkland
courses in some breath-taking settings and when you’re not
honing your skills, there is no end to the number of attractions to
keep you occupied from the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle
Peninsula to Cork City and the Cliffs of Moher.
It’s time to discover, the passion, the variety and the beauty of
the Southwest, so get your score card ready, perfect that swing
and hit the greens of the Southwest.
Featured Golf Courses
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Tralee Golf Course
Dooks Golf Course
Ring of Kerry Golf Course
Old Head Golf Course
Fota Island Golf Course
Overnights for this Tour
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Kerry for 3 nights
Cork for 3 nights
Clare for 1 night
What’s included in this Tour
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7 nights accommodation based on your chosen package
Full Irish breakfast each morning
Car rental (automatic compact car, insurance and all taxes)
6 rounds of Golf
Itinerary in Brief
Day 1: Arrival in
Shannon, the Cliffs of
Moher and the Burren
Region
Day 2 - 4 : The Kerry
Region (The Ring of
Kerry and the Dingle
Peninsular)
Day 5 - 6 : The Cork
Region (Cork City and
the Blarney Stone)
Day 7: Adare and
Limerick City
Day 8: Departure from
Shannon
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Day 1 - 4 : Arrival in Shannon, the Clare and Kerry Region
Your journey through Ireland’s Southwest begins at Shannon Airport. You will no doubt be eager to get
stuck in and sample all the fine golf courses that this region has to offer. From Tralee Golf Course to Adare
Manor, there’s plenty to look forward to, but if you fancy a bit of sight-seeing along the way,
you won’t be disappointed either.
From Shannon Airport you’re in the perfect place to explore the rugged beauty of the Burren Region. This
truly unique area of limestone rock covers mountains, valleys and
streams, each as awe-inspiring as the last. There is a beautiful contrast
between the natural flora and fauna and the ancient man made megalithic tombs, which predate the Roman and even Egyptian civilizations.
Before you trek out into the unknown, you can visit the Burren Visitors
Centre in nearby Kilfenora, where you’ll get an introduction to the many
secrets of the Burren.
The Burren Smokehouse is just a ten minute drive down the road from
Kilfenora so drop in and sample some of their acclaimed smoked
salmon, see the original kiln used at the smokehouse and browse their
range of products, which include various crafts and delicacies from the
Clare region.
From the Burren to the Cliffs of Moher your trip today is packed full of
scenic eye-candy. Atop the cliff, the panoramic views of the Aran
Islands, The Twelve Pins, The Maum Turk Mountains and Loop Head
will take your breath away. The visitors’ centre, which has been aptly
named Atlantic Edge, can be found close to the cliffs within an
underground building. Various studies of the cliffs are on display here
focusing on four main themes: Ocean, Rock, Nature and Man.
While you’re in the area, why not pop into Doolin Cave. Less than ten
minutes drive up the coast from the Cliffs of Moher you’ll find this
fascinating cave, which is home to the longest stalactite in the northern
hemisphere, measuring 6.54m (20 ft).
If you’re in the mood for something a little bit different for your first night
in Ireland, the Bunratty Medieval Banquet offers a unique experience
and a fantastic night of entertainment. Or if you’d prefer a good old Irish
pub setting for your first night in Ireland, Durty Nelly’s is always a good
choice. From lively traditional Irish music sessions to pulling your own
pint and some of the best grub in Ireland, you’re always sure of a good
time in Nelly’s.
From Clare it’s onto Kerry, where your tour will get into full swing. Well rested and raring to go fuelled by
your delicious full Irish breakfast [in insert accommodation], it’s time to hit the fairways. Over the course of
the next three days you can fit in a round on all of the following:
Tralee Golf Course
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Set along a vast and rugged coastline, this links course, which was designed by Arnold Palmer will be
where you’ll first get to grips with Southwest Ireland’s fantastic courses. With every hole you’ll be treated to
stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Kerry Head and the Dingle Peninsula.
But don’t let the beautiful scenery fool you, this course will really put your through your paces with a ramping
difficulty. The gentle outward nine will see you make your way through Palmer’s Loop (the locals’ collective
name for the 6th, 7th and 8th holes). With the back nine you’ll be met with wild and massive dunes. Some
highlights will include the 12th hole where you’ll come up against an elevated green protected by a deep
ravine; magnificent view of the Bann Strand from the14th; the downhill par three 16th and a challenging
dogleg in the 17th.
Founded:
Architect:
Course type:
Par:
Standard Scratch Score (SSS):
Length:
1896 – Tralee Golf Club
Arnold Palmer
Links
72
73
6,975 yards
Dooks
Dooks is the oldest golf Club in Kerry and one of the oldest in Ireland
dating back to 1889. Surrounded by the significant history of this
renowned golf course is where you’ll be tackling your next 18 holes.
In 2002, Mr. Martin Hawtree – a famous links architect – was enlisted by
the club to enhance the layout of this already stunning course and today
Dooks is a truly one of kind course that you’ll enjoy every moment of.
With Dooks you get a taste for a real traditional links golf course coupled
with arresting views of Dingle and the McGillycuddy Reeks
(Ireland’s highest mountain range) along the way.
Founded:
Architect:
Course type:
Par:
Standard Scratch Score (SSS):
Length:
1889
Martin Hawtree
Links
71
71
6,586 yards
Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is famed for its scenery but in the heart of this region
you’ll also find a fantastic par 72 championship course. The Ring of
Kerry Golf and Country Club is your next port of call and it will truly take
your breath away.
Over these 18 holes, the standard of incredible rugged scenery is
matched only by the challenge of the course. The course itself is located between the McGillycuddy’s Reeks
and the Caha Mountains, with an overlooking view of Kenmare Bay. Some of the views are truly unbelievable. The Ring of Kerry Golf Course combines the sheer beauty of this region and a fantastic 18 holes making this one course you will not want to pass up.
Founded:
1998
Architect:
Eddie Hackett
Course type:
Links to Parkland
Par:
72
Standard Scratch Score (SSS):
73
Length:
6,820 yards
Speaking of the Ring of Kerry, when you’re not working your way through Kerry’s finest fairways, you’ll be
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able to take some time out to fully explore this most talked about of Irish attractions. The Ring of Kerry (or
the Iveragh Peninsula) has everything from expansive beaches and stunning landscapes to historical sites
dating back to ancient Ireland.
Also in the county of Kerry, is the Dingle Peninsula. This large mass of land measures around 48km (30 mi)
and it’s spine is lined with mountains, including Slieve Mish and Mount Brandon (Ireland’s second highest
peak). Along this beautiful coastal drive you’ll find sheer cliff faces and vast beaches galore so it’s well worth
checking out if you can drag yourself from the clubhouse.
All in all your three days in Kerry can be as action packed or as laid back as you want to make them. You
may be sad to leave this region behind, but as unlikely as it may be, things just keep getting better.
Optional Activities/Tours/Entertainment
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Ailwee Cave
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Killarney National Park
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Tangney's Jaunting Cars
Day 5 - 6: The Cork Region - Cork City & Blarney Castle
Your next two days will be spent in Cork – the Rebel County – Ireland’s largest county and a fantastic golfing destination. Before you move on you’ll be getting the chance to tee up at these two courses:
Old Head
Old Head Golf Course won the Irish Golf Course of the Year in 2009
and was described by Links Magazine as “the most spectacular course
on earth”. Golf fans have been dubbing Old Head as a must play course
since it was founded in 1997 and now it’s your turn to see what the hype
is all about.
Old Head in Kinsale, County Cork is a headland, which juts out two
miles into the Atlantic Ocean and it is the setting for this world-class
course. From first to 1st to 18th, you can take in jaw dropping views of
the ocean - in fact nine of the holes will see you teeing off along the
cliffs tops. This is one round of golf you
certainly won’t be forgetting soon.
Founded:
Architect:
1997
Ron Kirby, Paddy Merrigan,
Liam Higgins, Eddie Hackett and Joe Carr
Course type:
Links
Par:
72
Standard Scratch Score: 72
Length:
7,200 yards
Fota Island Resort
Surrounded by parkland and constantly maintained to the highest
standards, it’s easy to see why the Fota Island Resort was chosen to
host the Irish Open twice since it was founded in 1993. The dedication
of the staff in keeping Fota’s courses at a consistent standard means
this is one golfing experience that can easily be enjoyed all year round.
At the resort you’ll find three traditional championship courses on offer,
each with their own unique
challenge. And as with all of the Southwest’s courses, you’ll once again
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be treated to that same beautiful Irish scenery, this time in the form of luscious woodlands, which are woven
into each of the courses.
The resort’s clubhouse also offers state of the art facilities so you you’ll be sure to enjoy the 19th just as
much as the rest of your round.
Founded:
Architect:
Course type:
Par:
Standard Scratch Score (SSS):
Length:
1993
Jeff Howes
Parklands / Parklands / Parklands
71 72 73
73 74 75
6,927 yards 7,121 yards 7,362 yards
Cork is also full of intriguing attractions to hold your interest off the golf
course. Everyone knows of the Blarney Stone and it is in Cork, just
outside of Cork City, where this much loved stone resides. There are
many variations on the story of to how the stone was endowed with
such power, but all agree that kissing the stone will award you with the
gift of the gab. Year after year visitors come to Blarney to do just that,
but once you’re there you’ll realise that there is so much more to
Blarney than its famous stone.
The castle itself, which was built nearly six hundred years ago by
Cormac Mac Carthy – one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains – is home to a
whole array of attractions that will really give you something to talk
about with your new found gift of the gab. The Wising Steps, The
Battlement View, Badgers Cave and Rock Close are just a snippet of
the many wonders for you to explore at Blarney.
Inside Cork city, you’ll also find a whole plethora of things to do and see.
The history of the city can be dated back to the 7th Century when it was
founded by St. Finbarr. You’ll find excellent examples of centuries old
architecture around every corner including St. Anne’s Church (complete
with its 300 year tower and home to the Shandon Bells) and St.
Finbarr’s Cathedral.
The imposing castle like structure of Cork City Gaol is a must see for
any visitor to Cork. Back in the 19th Century, this building acted as a
prison and through a unique exhibition experience, visitors can peer into
the past and see what life was like in Cork from both sides of the prison
walls. Also within the confines of Cork City Gaol Is the Radio Museum –
home to an impressive collection of archived reels from Ireland’s
national broadcaster as well as a restored 6CK Radio Broadcasting
Studio.
Optional Activities/Tours/Entertainment
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The Jameson Experience
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Blarney Woolen Mills
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Cobh Titanic Trail
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Day 7: Adare and Limerick City
You’re now into the final stretch of your golfing tour of Ireland's Southwest. Today, it’s off to Limerick and in
particular Adare, where you’ll be teeing up at Adare Manor – one of this regions most loved golf-course, and
for good reason.
Of course, there’s more to Adare, and indeed to Limerick than just golf, so if you have the spare time, make
sure to explore as much of this county as possible. Adare itself is known as “Ireland’s prettiest village”. It is a
wonderfully picturesque locale where traditional Ireland is still thriving through the friendly townsfolk. You’re
never far from a friendly smile or a hopping music session, so even if you’re only visiting for the pleasant
scenery you’ll leave with the warmth of true Irish charm.
The best place to start your visit to Adare is its heritage centre home to
an insightful exhibition, which delves into the village’s enthralling past.
Wandering around this quintessential rural village, you’ll feel magically
transported into a simpler time. About 20 minutes up the road you’ll
find Limerick City – a bustling urban delight situated at the mouth of the
River Shannon (Ireland’s longest river). King John’s Castle is one of
Limerick’s most famed monuments and rightfully so.
Nestled in the heart of the city on its very own island home, the fantastic
13th Century structure hosts a range of exhibitions and castle tours,
which breathe life into the esteemed history of the castle. King John,
after whom the castle was named, was once “Lord of Ireland”. He used
the building for minting his own coins and today, visitors can receive
their very own souvenir coin as a reminder of their visit.
All around the city of Limerick you’ll find a fascinating combination of the
old and the new. Georgian streetscapes combine with modern buildings
creating a strange mix but one that really works. A stroll along the newly
completed boardwalk treats visitors to stunning views of the north bank
of the River Shannon, whilst walking down the marina you can stare out
along its south bank.
For a glimpse at what Limerick has to offer in terms of culture, drop into
the Hunt Museum. One of a kind art pieces and antiques from the
Neolithic age to the 20th Century make up the exhibitions of this
magnificent museum. Roman, Greek and Egyptian civilisations all make
an appearance and even works of art by Yeats, Renoir and Picasso.
Both Limerick and Adare are bursting with a variety of things to do, from
the historical to the scenic, but of course you’re here mainly to play golf,
so without further ado, here’s where you’ll be playing your last 18 holes
of golf in Ireland:
Adare Manor Golf Resort
Adare Manor Golf Resort is yet another of the Southwest’s premier golf courses and the perfect way to finish
your Irish golfing tour with a positive swing. For three years running from 2007 – 2009, the Irish Open was
hosted at this magnificent golf resort and with it’s ideal location only 22 miles (35.4 km) from Shannon
Airport you can relax into your game and really enjoy this majestic parkland course.
Dotted around the 7,453 yards of this championship course you’ll see lakes, historic ruins, towering mature
tress and of course, architect Robert Trench Jones senior’s signature cloverleaf bunkers.
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The front nine is routed through a heavily wooded area of estate and is dominated by a 14 acre lake, whilst
along the holes of the back nine you can take in view of the River Maigue and towards the end, the Manor
itself acting as a superb backdrop as you round up your day. In 1987, Robert Trent Jones Senior was
inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame the Adare Manor’s 18th hole is considered to be some of his best
work ever.
Founded:
Architect:
Course type:
Par:
Standard Scratch Score (SSS):
Length:
1993
Jeff Howes
Parklands / Parklands / Parklands
71 72 73
73 74 75
6,927 yards 7,121 yards 7,362 yards
That night you'll be heading on to Clare for your last overnight [in insert accommodation], leaving you ideally
located for a short trip to the airport the next day. If you haven't already gotten a chance to check them out
then now might be the perfect time to drop into the Bunratty Medieval Banquet or Durty Nelly's for some
evening entertainment.
Optional Activities/Tours/Entertainment
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Foynes Flying Boat Museum
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Frank McCourt Museum
Day 8: Departure from Shannon
You have at last come to the end of your golfing tour of Ireland’s Southwest. You’ll have experienced some
fantastic links and parkland courses and no doubt faced each of their unique challenges head on. You may
still have some time to spare before you catch your departing flight, and if so make sure you make the most
of it. Enjoy the fresh Irish air one last time before you pack your bags and return home, armed with fantastic
stories to regale your friends and family with.
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