Shannon Region

THE COURSES

Just 30 miles north of Shannon, lies the classic links of Lahinch. The original course was designed in 1893 by “Old” Tom Morris, but was extensively revised in 1928 by Dr. Alastair MacKenzie. Of the holes that Tom Morris laid out, the 6th, also known as the Dell, is the only one left. It is also the quirkiest, a par three with a completely blind approach. You aim for the white boulder on the hill, which gives you a line on the hole! At Lahinch everybody is a golf enthusiast and this quickly transmits itself to the visitor - hence it is known as the St. Andrews of Ireland. Other courses nearby include Shannon, Dromoland and Adare.

WHERE TO STAY

Dromoland Castle: Just ten minutes from Shannon Airport lies this legendary castle situated on a large estate with its own golf course, tennis, fishing and conference facilities.

Dunraven Arms, Adare: One of Ireland’s premier four-star hotels offering distinctive elegance and traditional charm. The rooms are spacious and beautifully appointed with antiques and its River Maigue Restaurant has received the highest accolades in the country for its outstanding cuisine.

Old Ground Hotel, Ennis: In the heart of the historic town of Ennis, lies the newly refurbished Old Ground Hotel. The elegant award-winning restaurant offers fine cuisine and the Poets Corner Pub features traditional Irish music. Ennis is a few miles from Lahinch, the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren.

ADARE MANOR

Located in the picturesque village of Adare is one of Ireland’s luxury golf resorts, Adare Manor. This 18th century Manor is an architectural jewel presiding over breathtaking formal gardens, majestic parkland, historic ruins and its own championship golf course.

In 1996, Golf Magazine wrote, “Stretching 7,138 yards, Adare Golf Club is a majestic thoroughbred with rock-walled streams, shamrock shaped bunkers and subtly undulating greens. The 18th, a par five parallels the River Maigue before crossing to a green set below the Manor’s formal gardens, is the best reason of all to play Europe’s most aristocratic new course.”