Palmer South Golf Course

at The K Club

Location: Straffan, County Kildare | Style: Modern Parkland | Length: 7,300 yards | Par: 72

Opened in 2003, the Palmer South Course at The K Club is a bold and dynamic modern design by Arnold Palmer. While it may sit in the shadow of its more famous sibling, Palmer North, the South Course has carved out its own identity with a distinctive and exhilarating layout that once held the title of the longest course on the European Tour.

At 7,300 yards from the championship tees, this par-72 course is a formidable challenge. It makes clever use of dramatic elevation changes and dune-style mounding, offering a layout that is both strategic and visually stimulating. The routing sweeps through 200 acres of former farmland, which Palmer transformed into a striking landscape of movement and intrigue.

With a design that embraces bold shaping and modern aesthetics, the Palmer South is a must-play for golfers who appreciate creative architecture and a break from traditional layouts.

Course highlights

• Modern parkland layout – Designed for strategic play with a blend of open fairways and tree-lined challenges
• Varied hole design – A mix of short par 4s, tough par 3s, and risk-reward par 5s keeps golfers thinking
• Natural water hazards – Streams and ponds come into play subtly, adding both beauty and danger
• Spacious greens – Generous putting surfaces offer scoring chances but demand smart reads and control

Clubhouse & amenities

Guests playing the Palmer South Course enjoy full access to The K Club’s premium facilities:

• Contemporary clubhouse amenities with dining and refreshments
• Excellent practice areas, including putting greens and a driving range
• PGA professionals available for lessons and coaching
• Access to The K Club’s luxury resort and spa

Signature feature

Rather than one standout hole, the Palmer South impresses with its overall rhythm and consistent elevation shifts. Sweeping fairways flanked by bold mounding give many holes a stadium feel, while cleverly contoured greens demand finesse and imagination.

Did You Know?

In 2004, just two weeks after claiming his second U.S. Open title at Shinnecock Hills, South African star Retief Goosen captured the Smurfit European Open on the Palmer South Course – cementing its status as a world-class championship venue.