Golfing In Ireland

If you are an avid golfer, thinking about vacationing in Ireland, you should know that there are about 44 different courses around the coast of Ireland. Some of these places are world famous but even those that are less well known have just as spectacular scenery and just as much of a challenge. However, 1 golf club that many people truly enjoy is the Porsalan Golf Club.

This golf course was built in 1891. However, it went through a recent renovation by Pat Ruddy in 2001. Now it is an even more formidable challenge for all golfers. In fact, many people actually call it 1 of Irish golf's hidden secrets. When you first approach the course you will be left awestruck by its breathtaking scenery. Porsalan Golf Course is situated on the Fanad Peninsula, in Donegal about 22 miles north of Letterkenny.

It is flanked on the east by Ballymastocker Bay and its 3 beaches. Further beyond you will see Lough Swilly and the beautiful Inishowen Peninsula. Then to the south the golf course is sheltered by the rugged Knockalla mountains and to both the north and the west it is surrounded by the ancient Donegal hills. All of this comes together to create the perfect backdrop for this golf course. The fairways on this golf course are dune lined.

The bunkers are placed quite craftily and the greens are well protected. Then in the closing 6 holes there is a hint of parkland, but it only emphasizes the eccentricity and allure of this great golf course. When you first embark upon the opening 6 holes of this golf course you will find that there is a prevailing wind. This is then followed by a 20 yard wide river that meanders close to the green which is protected by deep bunkers.

Then you will enter into a short, straight-away par 4. You will find that the final holes are challenging, being surrounded by bunkers. There is also a parkland feel to these holes. You will finish off with plenty of uphill shots, waterways to clear and other challenges to be both surprised and fascinated with. The closing hole is equally as tough as you will have to take a difficult approach to this slightly elevated green. If you are even a bit short you will be in the small stream that is just 10 yards in front of the green.

So, as you can see this is a very challenging course. It is also one of the the best, most beautiful courses that you will ever play as a golfer. In fact, many golfers actually say that this is how golf was meant to be played because there are no frills - just golf au naturelle. For an additional treat when you go to the Porsalan Golf Club, make sure that you take the longer route to the course, along the coastal road from Rathmullan. These views are absolutely awe-inspiring. Then if you throw in the legendary Irish hospitality, you definitely have an unforgettable experience.