If it is a golfing challenge you want, Doonbeg is great. The 6885-yard, par-72 championship course designed by Greg Norman is a rugged seaside links with stunning views of the sea from 16 of the 18 holes that's as fun and challenging to play as any in Ireland.
Running through towering dunes on Ireland's famed southwestern shore, it's situated right in the middle of an area that's home to classic links like Lahinch and Ballybunion. The club was aimed at international members from the outset by the developers, who also built Kiawah Island – so they know a thing or two about such matters. Where it pales by comparison with those above it in our ranking is in terms of other activities on site for non-golfing partners to enjoy, or to simply break up your stay, and lack of privacy as a limited number of fee paying guests are allowed through the doors.
Located less than one hour from Shannon airport, which is served from eight cities on the east coast of the US, there is luxury accommodation on site and real estate purchase options, with suites ranging from $667,000 to $1.3 million. A concierge service is on hand to book rental cars, tee times at Doonbeg and any other courses in the region, restaurant reservations, and non-golf activities elsewhere.
Membership can also be passed down to children and grandchildren as a family legacy. Members who do not already own a suite at Doonbeg are also given preference in opportunities to buy and/or reserve a suite to use as a home base for trips to Ireland. The membership deposit of $60,000 is fully refundable at the end of the membership period. Annual dues are $1,350 for an individual or $1,700 for a family, which includes spouse and children under 25.
