K Club
Course
The K Club, Straffan, County Kildare
Founded 1991. Luxury Hotel & Golf Resort (2 Golf Courses)
The K Club will forever be remembered as the first Irish venue to host the Ryder Cup, which it did in 2006 in an event always remembered for the emotional performance of Darren Clarke. But quite apart from that, this is one of the finest luxury golf resorts in Ireland. The hotel is five-star in nature and both golf courses are similar in this respect. Though set on the same land, the two golf courses are very different. The Palmer North Course, which hosted the Ryder Cup of 2006, is a spectacular parkland layout designed by Arnold Palmer, while the Palmer South Course is almost devoid of trees and is inland links in nature. In addition the the Ryder Cup of 2006, the resort has hosted the Irish Open in 2016 and no fewer than 13 European Opens over the years.
Sightseeing
The main attraction of Ireland as a golf destination may indeed be its great golf courses but the overall experience is influenced by many other factors including great accommodation options, restaurants, pubs, people, and not least it’s stunning scenery and superb visitor attractions. Each region offers something very different and with all locations being quite close together, it’s very easy to mix the stunning countryside and coastline with more urban attractions.
We work with each of our clients to recommend what suits their trip best. You may have a full day to spend sightseeing or you may squeeze in a quick stop on the way to or from the golf course but we will make sure that you maximise your experience at all times. The below is intended as a very general guide to sightseeing in Ireland.
A few nights in Dublin is a logical inclusion in many trips. Sometimes flights dictate that you arrive and depart Dublin and it can be easily combined with time spent in other locations. Apart from the great courses in the area, it offers much in terms of sightseeing including the Guinness Storehouse, Old Jameson Distillery, Christ Church Cathedral, the National Museum of Ireland and Kilmainham Jail. A visit to Trinity College Library to view the Book of Kells is also recommended.
Just north of Dublin, the Passage Tombs at Newgrange date back to 3,200 BC and provide a fascinating insight into prehistoric Ireland, while just south of Dublin in County Wicklow, you should include a visit to beautiful Glendalough and Powerscourt House & Gardens.
Further south of Wicklow, the likes of Kilkenny, Waterford and Wexford are all well worth a visit with many impressive attractions. Kilkenny is a wonderful medieval city with the impressive Kilkenny Castle dominating the town. Waterford is synonymous with Waterford Crystal and you should include a visit to the House of Waterford Crystal, while in Wexford, some recommended options include the Irish National Heritage Park and Enniscorthy Castle.