Portmarnock Golf Club is located on its own ancient peninsula, and lies to the north of Dublin close to the coastal town of Portmarnock amongst 500 acres.
Portmarnock Golf Club is a historic club dates back to 1894 and started off as a nine hole course, extending to 18 holes in 1896, at this time the clubhouse with its iconic red roof was constructed. The course still retains much of its original layout, it has been enlarged over the years, with the only major change a new hole at the 15th, it is a course that has stood the test of time. This 18 hole championship course is a par 72, measuring 6,926 from the back tees. There are a total of 27 holes here, the final 9 being added in 1971.
This links course is laid out in two loops of nine that sit seamlessly on the curve of the coastline, it is the natural surrounding and environment that have played a large role in the success of this course. It benefits from a simple layout with no tricks or surprises thereby, offering a fair test of golf. There is an excellent layout and a great selection of holes here, with none of the holes running in the same direction, every shot presents a different challenge and there is only one blind shot.
Features of the course come from the natural surroundings,
- in the form of bumps and hollows,
- it is well known for its sod-wall pot bunkers that are strategically placed throughout the course.
- The natural elements play a substantial part here as the course is at the mercy of the winds,
- it must always be considered before play as it can be difficult to judge its direction and strength, owing to the water on three sides.
- There are stunning views out over the coastline and out over the Irish Sea to Ireland’s Eye and Lambay Island in the distance.
- The course is well known for its unforgettable set of five finishing holes, they provide a real challenge to even the most skilled golfer.
The course is in excellent condition and beautifully manicured, the slightly undulating greens are very quick and true, the fairways are wide and fair, there are traditional deep riveted bunkers and watch out for the swale in the run off areas.
It is difficult to sum up this quality historic and traditional course, a wonderful atmosphere, spectacular views, a magnificent course, a fair and rewarding game of golf, but these do not go any way in describing its attributes. The most effective way to put it is that at Portmarnock you will walk the same fairways which the greats of the game have walked, what else needs to be said.