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Discover the untamed beauty of North West Ireland
For adventurous golfers who prefer the road less travelled, the North West of Ireland is the place to go. This rugged, beautiful, and remote land is a world away from the Hollywood A-list courses of the South West, but for those who appreciate links golf in its purest form and at a fraction of the price, it’s as good as it gets.
Not that you can keep links of this quality a secret, with the likes of Carne, Enniscrone, Ballyliffin, Rosses Point (County Sligo) and the spectacular Rosapenna all flying high across acclaimed global course rankings lists. A golf package in North West Ireland offers a slice of the real Ireland, with fantastic hospitality and a genuine sense of getting away from it all. If you want great golf but without the crowds, it’s perfect.
Why book a golf package in North West Ireland?
- Experience links golf in its purest, most unspoilt form
- Play world-class courses without the crowds
- Take in dramatic Atlantic coastlines and wild, rugged scenery
- Discover true hidden gems like Carne, Enniscrone & Ballyliffin
- Unwind in traditional pubs with great food, music & atmosphere
- Soak up genuine Irish hospitality in charming coastal towns
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Play Ireland's top uncovered gems
North West Ireland is home to some of the most exhilarating and authentic links golf in the world - courses that consistently feature in both Irish and UK & Ireland rankings, yet remain refreshingly uncrowded.
Ballyliffin Golf Club Location: Donegal | Courses: Glashedy Links (Par 72) & Old Links (Par 71) | Architects: Pat Ruddy & Tom Craddock | Founded: 1947 | Rankings: Glashedy Links ranked inside the UK & Ireland Top 100
One of Ireland’s premier golfing destinations, Ballyliffin offers two exceptional links courses set among towering dunes. The Glashedy Links is widely regarded as one of the finest modern links layouts, while the Old Links delivers a more traditional, rugged test. Its remote Inishowen setting adds to the sense of escape and authenticity that defines the experience.
Enniscrone Golf Club Location: Sligo | Course: Dunes Course (Par 73) | Architects: Eddie Hackett (original), Donald Steel (redesign) | Founded: 1918 | Rankings: Regularly ranked among Ireland’s Top 25 courses
Renowned for its dunes and dramatic routing, Enniscrone is a thrilling and visually spectacular links that continues to climb in national rankings. The scale of its dunes creates a unique and unforgettable round that feels both challenging and adventurous.
Carne Golf Links Location: Mayo | Courses: Hackett Course (Par 72) & Kilmore (Par 72) | Architects: Eddie Hackett (original), Tom Doak (Kilmore) | Founded: 1992 | Rankings: Ranked #12 in Ireland (Golf World Top 100 Ireland 2025)
A true hidden gem, Carne has gained global recognition in recent years, breaking into the top tier of Irish golf. Its wild dunes and remote setting make it one of the most memorable links experiences anywhere. The course’s natural routing and minimal earthmoving give it a pure, untouched links character.
County Sligo Golf Club (Rosses Point) Location: Sligo | Course: Championship Links (Par 71) Architects: Harry Colt (redesign) | Founded: 1894 | Rankings: Ranked #15 in Ireland (Golf World Top 100 Ireland 2025)
A classic championship links, County Sligo combines strategic design with stunning coastal views. Its enduring reputation keeps it firmly among Ireland’s elite courses. The ever-changing Atlantic winds ensure no two rounds play the same, adding to its challenge and appeal.
Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Links Location: Donegal | Courses: Old Tom Morris Links (Par 71) | Sandy Hills (Par 72) | St Patrick’s Links (Par 72) | Architects: Old Tom Morris, Pat Ruddy, Tom Doak | Founded: 1893 | Rankings: St Patrick’s Links ranked #4 in Ireland and among the world’s top courses
A true links haven, Rosapenna blends heritage with cutting-edge design. St Patrick’s Links has rapidly risen into the top tier of Irish and global rankings, cementing Donegal as a world-class golf destination. With three distinct courses on site, it offers one of the most complete golf experiences in Ireland.
Travel Tips for North West Ireland
- Best time to visit – The prime golfing season runs from May to September, with long daylight hours and the best course conditions. June and July offer extended evenings, while May and September are ideal for fewer crowds and great value.
- Allow time to explore – Distances may look short, but winding coastal roads mean journeys take longer. Build in time to enjoy the scenery rather than rushing between courses.
- Hire a car – The region is best experienced at your own pace, and many of the top courses are in remote locations. A car gives you the freedom to discover hidden beaches and villages along the way.
- Be ready for all weather – You can experience four seasons in a day on the Atlantic coast. Pack waterproofs and layers to stay comfortable on the course.
- Book tee times in advance – While quieter than other regions, the top courses like Ballyliffin, Enniscrone and Rosapenna are in high demand during peak season.
- Stay local – Choose accommodation in nearby towns or villages to soak up the atmosphere, enjoy traditional pubs, and minimise travel time.
- Embrace the pace – This is a place to slow down. Leave room in your itinerary for a post-round pint, a walk on the beach, or simply taking in the view.
- Check travel routes – Consider flying into Dublin, Knock or Belfast, then driving across - each offers a straightforward gateway to the North West.
Best-selling golf packages in North West Ireland
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Popular golf packages in North West Ireland
Where to stay in the beautiful North West
A golf tour to North West Ireland is best experienced as a journey, taking in a series of spectacular courses and equally memorable places to stay. By grouping courses into regions, you can enjoy a more relaxed pace while making the most of everything this rugged coastline has to offer.
Sligo & Mayo Coast Best for: Variety of links golf & lively towns
The stretch from Westport through to Sligo is home to some of the region’s most celebrated courses, including Carne, Enniscrone, and County Sligo (Rosses Point). This cluster offers a perfect balance of world-class golf and vibrant local culture.
Knockranny House Hotel & Spa (Westport) – A comfortable and scenic base with views over Clew Bay, ideal for combining golf with a charming town atmosphere. Mount Falcon Estate (Ballina) – A peaceful countryside retreat offering space, privacy, and a touch of luxury between rounds. The Glasshouse Hotel (Sligo) – A stylish, central option perfect for those who want to enjoy Sligo’s restaurants, pubs, and nightlife after a day on the links.
Donegal Coast Best for: Dramatic scenery & iconic links clusters
Further north, Donegal delivers some of Ireland’s most breathtaking golf. Courses like Donegal Golf Club (Murvagh), Rosapenna, and Ballyliffin form a natural cluster, set against sweeping beaches and rugged Atlantic views.
Lough Eske Castle – A five-star castle experience offering luxury, tranquillity, and a memorable contrast to the wild links landscape. Station House Hotel (Letterkenny) – A relaxed and convenient base for exploring Donegal’s top courses, with easy access across the region. Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Links – Stay on-site at one of Ireland’s premier golf resorts, where three outstanding links courses sit right on your doorstep - including St Patrick’s Links, ranked #4 in Ireland and among the finest in the world.
Ballyliffin & Inishowen Peninsula Best for: Golf-focused stays & remote escape
At Ireland’s northernmost tip, Ballyliffin feels like a true escape. With two exceptional links courses and a peaceful coastal setting, it’s the perfect place to slow down and immerse yourself in the game.
Ballyliffin Lodge, Hotel & Spa – Just a mile from the golf club, this welcoming hotel is the ideal base for playing both the Old Links and Glashedy Links, combining comfort, convenience, and coastal views.
This really is Ireland's best kept secret, with incredibly rugged and untamed landscape making for the perfect links golf terrain. Remote and difficult to get to but truly worth it.
Head of Long Haul
Explore the Regions of North West Ireland
North West Ireland is the Emerald Isle's hidden gem when it comes to golf. Often mistakingly overlooked and overshadowed by the better-known courses in the South West, the stretch of coast from Galway to Ballyliffin offers some of the most incredible links in Ireland. They call this region the 'Wild Atlantic Way' and there is good reason for that, with the spectacularly scenic Atlantic coastline providing the perfect landscape for naturally rugged links golf courses. For the adventurous golfer who likes to get off the beaten track we highly recommend a trip to the North West coast of Ireland
- Wild, remote, and undeniably spectacular, Donegal is the beating heart of North West Ireland’s golf scene. Here, dramatic dunes meet the crashing Atlantic, creating some of the most exhilarating links experiences in the world. Home to standout names like Ballyliffin and Rosapenna, Donegal offers golf on a grand scale - big landscapes, big courses, and a true sense of escape. Off the course, expect quiet coastal villages, stunning beaches, and a pace of life that feels refreshingly untouched.
- Further south, Sligo blends outstanding links golf with rich culture and striking scenery. County Sligo Golf Club at Rosses Point is the headline act, set against the backdrop of Benbulben and sweeping coastal views. Enniscrone, with its towering dunes and bold design, adds even more drama to the region. Beyond the fairways, Sligo offers a lively mix of traditional pubs, great food, and literary heritage - making it the perfect balance of world-class golf and authentic Irish charm.
Off the course
If you’re wondering what the North West has to offer beyond championship golf courses, look no further. Whether you prefer history, live music, traditional Irish cuisine or going outdoors, there is something for everyone.
The region is great for afternoon fishing trips, horse riding, mountaineering, and surfing on the beautiful beaches. You are also sure to experience a warm welcome or "céad mile fáilte" from those you meet on your travels, along with a strong sense of the Irish heritage and culture in some of the least explored parts of the country.
Top attractions include Slieve league, a beautiful mountain on the Atlantic coast of Donegal. If you’re on your way to Sligo, the Benbulben Rock, part of the stunning Dartry Mountains is a must-see attraction. Or if you’re into castles, check out Lough Eske Castle and lakes.
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Guaranteed best price, flexible booking and free amendments.Service
Hassle-free golf trip planning and expert travel advice.Trust
Over 25 years’ experience and rated excellent by our customers on Trustpilot.Choice
An extensive choice of venues across the USA and worldwide.Rewards
Earn golf gift cards when you book a golf trip.
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