Rosapenna
Course
Rosapenna Golf Resort, Downings, County Donegal
Founded 1898. Links Course
Less well known internationally due to its relatively remote but picturesque location on the northern Donegal coastline, the two exceptional links courses here should be included on any pilgrimage to play the lesser-known gems of Irish links golf. The Rosapenna Hotel on-site is the ideal base from which to play both courses and if you are in the area for more than a few days, then it’s a perfect opportunity to play Portsalon too. The Old Links was designed by Old Tom Morris and dates back over a century, while the Sandy Hills Course was designed by Pat Ruddy and opened for play in 2003. Sandy Hills has already gained a reputation as one of the toughest links courses in the country. Rosapenna is a wonderful 36-hole championship links resort.
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 closely with our clients to recommend what suits their trip best. You may have a full day to spend sightseeing or you may prefer to squeeze in a quick scenic 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 West and Northwest Ireland Ireland.
Often the path less travelled in Ireland, the region has much to offer. Galway is a vibrant city with excellent restaurants, shops and pubs and it’s a great base from which to explore the the area. Moving west towards Connemara and the beautiful town of Clifden, you will encounter some of the most ruggedly beautiful scenery in Ireland and should include a visit to Connemara National Park and take a hike up Diamond Hill. Other recommendations include Kylemore Abbey (pictured below), the scenic Renvyle Peninsula, Aran Islands and the Quiet Man Museum in Cong.
Travelling north from Connemara, Westport is another lively, picturesque town from where you should make sure to visit Westport House and Gardens, while the more energetic amongst us will enjoy a hike up Croagh Patrick, known as Ireland’s Holy Mountain (pictured below). Another interesting stop is the Ceide Fields Visitor Centre near Ballycastle, while the towering Slieve League Cliffs and Glenveagh National Park should not be missed when in Donegal.