Doonbeg follows in the slow but sure tradition of great Irish golf courses: It originally opened in 2002, but designer Greg Norman made so many changes that it took yet another year to finish.
Doonbeg sits on one and a half miles of uninterrupted, crescent – shaped coastline, and each hole front hugs the shore is placed just inland. The ocean is seen from all but two holes, and on the first tee you can see straight across the bay to the ninth green – and nearly every hole in between. All this is set through ancient sand dunes towering more than 100 feet.
It is a setting so spectacular, accomplished designer Norman remarked, "If I spend the rest of my life building courses, I don't think I'd find a comparable site anywhere." He's right. [6,911 yards, Fees: $250]
Name to Know: Head Pro Brian Shaw can give you the inside scoop. Contact: Brian Shaw Phone: 353-65-905-5602 Fax: 353-65-905-5247 Email: brian_shaw@doonbeggolfclub.com Website: www.doonbeggolfclub.com
Where to Stay: The new Lodge at Doonbeg opened in May 2006 and is already one of the finest golf lodgings on earth. Antique furniture and light fixtures were collected from all over Ireland, England, and Europe. The suites are all individual residences, each with its own living room and fireplace, full kitchen, and one to four bedrooms. The very best is the four-bedroom Ocean View Suite in the main lodge [$1,500 a night]. The Links Cottages, now under construction, will be even larger residences located along the course.
Contact: General Manager: Joe Russell Phone:353-65-905SSS-5602 Fax:353-65-905-5247 Email:joe_russell@doonbeggolfclub.com Website:www.doonbeggolfclub.com
When to Go: May to September offers the best weather, though in Ireland's Southwest you can get wonderful – or miserable – conditions at any time of year.
Other Activities: Doonbeg's White Horses Spa is one of Ireland's best. Outside the resort sits one of the nation's top attractions, the fabled Cliffs of Moher. Ferries run to the historic and rugged Aran Islands, and active pursuits include horseback riding, surfing, sailing, kayaking, raft building, canoeing, windsurfing, orienteering and archery.
Private Aviation: Shannon International Airport is just 45 minutes away (10 by helicopter).
Runway: 10,499 feet.
