St Patrick's Links

at Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Links

Location: Downings, County Donegal, Ireland | Style: Links | Length: 7,376 yards | Par: 72 | Designer: Tom Doak | Founded: 2021

Set among some of the most dramatic dunes in Ireland, St Patrick’s Links at Rosapenna Resort is a modern masterpiece that has quickly established itself among the world’s elite courses.

Designed by acclaimed architect Tom Doak and opened in 2021, the course occupies a breathtaking stretch of land overlooking Sheephaven Bay, transforming a former links layout into a bold and expansive championship experience.

Measuring over 7,300 yards, this par-72 course is defined by dunes, wide fairways, and sweeping green complexes that blend seamlessly into the natural landscape. Doak’s minimalist philosophy is evident throughout, with holes that appear as though they have been discovered rather than built.

The routing flows effortlessly across the terrain, offering a variety of angles and shot options, while coastal winds ensure no two rounds play the same. Both visually spectacular and strategically compelling, St Patrick’s Links offers a pure, modern links experience that rivals the finest courses in the world. Ranked #41 in the 2023 World Top 100 Courses, it firmly establishes itself among the elite.

Course highlights

• World-class design – Created by Tom Doak, one of the most respected modern golf architects
• Dramatic dune landscape – Set within towering natural dunes along the Donegal coastline
• Championship test – Over 7,300 yards with multiple tee options for all skill levels
• Minimalist architecture – Natural-looking holes that follow the contours of the land
• Global recognition – Rapidly ranked among the top golf courses in Ireland and worldwide

Signature Holes

The par-3 2nd is one of the most memorable holes on the course. Played across a valley of dunes to a large, contoured green, it demands both precision and imagination. With wind direction constantly changing, club selection becomes a true test, making it a classic and visually spectacular links hole.

Clubhouse & amenities

As part of Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Resort, St Patrick’s Links benefits from excellent facilities, including:

• Extensive practice areas with driving range and short game facilities
• Traditional clubhouse and hotel with bar and restaurant dining
• On-site accommodation overlooking Sheephaven Bay
• Pro shop, PGA instruction, and equipment hire
• Access to the resort’s other courses: Sandy Hills Links and Old Tom Morris Links

The resort combines world-class golf with warm Irish hospitality, making it a premier destination for golf travellers.

Did You Know?

• St Patrick’s Links was built on the site of the former St Patrick’s Golf Links, which originally opened in 1997 before being completely redesigned by Tom Doak
• The course has quickly risen into global rankings, often cited among the best modern links courses in the world
• This course stands at #41 in the 2023 100 Courses in the World