Mike Ryan’s Favourite Irish Golf | Luxury Irish Golf Packages

Besides the magnificent scenery, Ireland has some of the best golf courses the world has ever seen and Mike Ryan knows where to find them all! Put an Irish Golf Trip on your list today and let us do the rest, we’ll leave no stone unturned to make sure you play the best golf in Ireland. The Emerald Isle should be top of your list for a luxury golf vacation in Ireland and with Mike Ryan’s favourite golf tours in Ireland it will be a trip you’ll never forget!

Royal County Down | luxury golf vacation

The Royal County Down is located in the seaside resort of Newcastle in Co. Down and was founded in 1889. At 127 years old, it is one of the oldest Golf Clubs in Ireland and has two 18-hole link courses, the Championship course and the Annesley links. It stretches out over 7,200 yards along the shores of Dundrum Bay, making it one of the most naturally stunning courses in the world.

Royal Portrush | Family Golf Trips Ireland

The Royal Portrush Golf Club is found in the fishing village of Portrush, in County Antrim in Ireland.  It was formed in 1888 it was only a 9-hole course, until 1889 when it was extended to the 18-course (Valley Course).  Then in 1929 another 18-hole course (Dunluce Course) was added by the renowned architect, Harry Colt. Everything you can expect to see on an Irish golf trip.

Old Head | luxury golf vacations ireland

Extending over 2km out onto the Atlantic, the Old Head Golf Course rests on 7220 acres of land. It’s located in Kinsale, Co. Cork,  famously known as the as the nearest point to where the Lusitania was sunk by a German torpedo during World War 1, in 1915. The course was originally designed as a walking course and though challenging this is still encouraged today. The dramatic surroundings of clifftops, makes this a very memorable golf tour in Ireland.

Ballybunion Golf Course | Family Golf Trips Ireland

Founded in 1893, Ballybunion Golf Club is home to two testing course, the Old Course and The Cashen Course.  Ballybunion is in County Kerry, on the southwest coast of Ireland.  It was founded in 1893, starting off as a 9-hole course before later expanding to 18 holes, in 1927. Although its’ remote location has lead to few championships being held here, Ballybunion Golf Club has been a consistently popular amongst those wishing to be challenged. It’s location is no concern to you as your Irish private chauffeur will get you there and back.

Tralee Golf Club | golf trip Ireland

Next on your private golf tour of Ireland is County Kerry and Tralee Golf Club.  Founded in 1896, it was later redesigned (by Arnold Palmer) and opened as it’s present day course in 1984.  There are spectacular views of the beach, made famous for the film ‘Ryan’s Daughter’ beach scene which was shot here, and subsequently the 17th is named after the popular film.

Waterville | private golf tours of Ireland

Another favourite Irish golf vacation spot in County Kerry is Waterville Golf Links.  Designed by John A Mulcahy (architect Eddie Hackett) and opened in 1973, his vision was to built the most challenging golf links in the world. The course stretches over 7,300 yards, intimidating to even the most confident player. Also popular with the late Payne Stewart, a bronze statue was unveiled there to honour him, following the tragic plane crash that claimed his life in 1999.

Dooks Golf Club | Discover Ireland Golf Tour(s)

Found in County Kerry, in 1889 the original 9 holes were laid out in Dooks Golf Club.  It was unique as at the time it was one of only ten Golf Clubs in Ireland.  In 1899 the additional 9 holes were added, making Dooks the first 18-hole Golf Course in Kerry. As a 127 year-old Course has long contoured fairways and the Mc Gillycuddy’s Reeks mountains to the east.  It is an enclosed links so wind speeds of other courses shouldn’t effect play here.  However, this doesn’t mean it’s an easy course and still requires a skilled player to take it on.  It is traditional golf to a tee for a superb Irish golf tour.