Discover the Top 100 Golf Courses of The World – Ireland Tours 2025 & 2026 with Fairways and FunDays
Ireland is renowned for its exceptional links golf courses, which are celebrated for their natural beauty, challenging play, and historical significance. The country has long been a dream destination for golf enthusiasts, and its prominence in the golf world is underscored by the inclusion of 14 of its courses in the recent Golf Digest Top 100 Golf Courses of the World. This achievement highlights Ireland’s status as a premier golfing destination. We have curated a number of World Top 100 packages to help you tick off your list, however you are not limited to these offerings, as all our tours are fully customisable. Let’s delve into some of the specifics:
Ireland Courses in the World Top 100 Courses (World Ranking in brackets)
- Royal County Down (1)
- Royal Portrush, Dunluce (4)
- Ballybunion (10)
- Lahinch (27)
- Portmarnock (37)
- St. Patrick’s Links (49)
- Waterville (53)
- The Old Head (77)
- Royal Portrush, Valley (82)
- Enniscrone (87)
- County Sligo (88)
- Tralee (89)
- The European Club (90)
- Portstewart (92)
Factors Contributing to Ireland’s Golfing Excellence
- Natural Terrain
- Ireland’s coastal geography provides the perfect landscape for links golf, characterised by undulating dunes, rugged terrain, and natural hazards.
- Historical Significance
- Many of Ireland’s courses have rich histories, with some dating back to the 19th century, offering a blend of tradition and timeless design.
- World-Class Design
- Renowned golf architects, both historic and modern, have crafted these courses, ensuring a mix of classic and contemporary design elements.
- Spectacular Scenery
- The breathtaking coastal views and natural beauty of Ireland’s landscape make playing golf here a visually stunning experience.
- Challenging Play
- The unpredictable weather and coastal winds add an extra layer of challenge, making these courses a true test of skill and strategy.
Ireland’s prominent presence in the Golf Digest Top 100 Golf Courses of the World is a testament to its exceptional offerings for golf enthusiasts. The combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and challenging play makes Ireland a must-visit destination for golfers from around the globe. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a casual player, the links courses in Ireland provide a unique and memorable golfing experience.
