Rosapenna, Sandy Hills Links

at Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Resort

Location: Downings, County Donegal, Ireland | Style: Links | Length: 7,255 yards | Par: 72 | Designer: Pat Ruddy | Founded: 2003

Set along the spectacular north-west coastline of Ireland, Sandy Hills Links at Rosapenna Resort is one of the country’s most celebrated modern links courses. Designed by renowned Irish architect Pat Ruddy and opened in 2003, the course is routed through towering natural dunes overlooking Sheephaven Bay, delivering a pure and exhilarating links golf experience.

Stretching over 7,200 yards, this par-72 layout makes full use of its dramatic terrain, with fairways weaving between some of the highest dunes in Ireland. The ever-present Atlantic winds, combined with firm, fast-running fairways and deep revetted bunkers, demand creativity, control, and imagination on every shot. Despite its championship length, multiple tee options ensure the course remains playable for a range of abilities, while still offering a stern test for low handicappers. Widely regarded as one of Ireland’s finest modern links, Sandy Hills provides a thrilling contrast to the resort’s more traditional Old Tom Morris Links.

Course highlights

• Modern links masterpiece – Designed by Pat Ruddy and consistently ranked among Ireland’s top courses
• Dramatic dune landscape – Routed through towering natural dunes with sweeping views over Sheephaven Bay
• Championship challenge – Over 7,200 yards with testing winds and strategic bunkering
• Pure links experience – Firm fairways, undulating greens, and coastal exposure demand creativity
• Part of a renowned resort – One of three outstanding courses at Rosapenna Golf Resort

Signature Holes

The par-3 4th is one of the most memorable holes on the course. Played from an elevated tee across a valley of dunes, the hole demands a precise strike to a well-protected green set against a stunning coastal backdrop. With wind often a major factor, club selection is critical, making it both visually spectacular and strategically demanding.

Clubhouse & amenities

As part of the Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Resort, Sandy Hills Links benefits from excellent facilities, including:

• Extensive practice facilities with driving range and short game areas
• Traditional clubhouse and resort hotel with bar and restaurant
• Comfortable on-site accommodation overlooking Sheephaven Bay
• PGA professional services, pro shop, and tuition
• Access to additional courses including Old Tom Morris Links and St Patrick’s Links

The resort combines classic Irish hospitality with world-class golf, making it a standout destination for links enthusiasts.

Did You Know?

• Sandy Hills Links was built on land originally earmarked for development, but was preserved and transformed into a world-class golf course
• The course has quickly risen in global rankings since opening, cementing Rosapenna’s status as one of Ireland’s premier golf destinations