What is it that makes an Ireland golf vacation so popular? Why do people flock from across the globe to the Irish golf courses each year? What makes the Emerald Isle one of the best golf locations in the world? Here are some of the reasons that Ireland golf packages have become so popular.

Ireland Is the Perfect Vacation Destination

Ireland has long been a popular vacation destination, especially for touring Americans. The biggest thing that draws people to Ireland each year is the beautiful terrain of the country. It is not called the Emerald Island for nothing! The country of Ireland is also popular for its rich history. Ireland is the land of legend, and many people want to have the chance to try to spot a leprechaun. The Irish are known around the world for their friendliness, and compassion toward fellow human beings it shows in the way they treat others. For example, even the estate agent fees are much lower when compared with many other western countries. Many people in the U.S. trace their roots back to Ireland, and they want to return to explore their origins. Add to that the numerous golf courses, more than 350 on the island, it is no wonder that many come to Ireland for an Ireland golf holiday.

Popular Irish Golf Courses

Ireland has more than 350 golf courses. Of these, several stand out above the rest. For an Ireland golf trip, be sure that you plan to hit these great Irish golf courses.

Kildare Hotel & Country Club

The Kildare Hotel & Country Club was designed by Arnold Palmer, and is incorporated beautifully into the area landscape. The course really takes advantage of the park like setting. It is not a seaside course, but has several holes with water hazards along the River Liffey. Of the club's two courses, the Palmer Course is the most challenging. The signature hole of the Smurfit Course is the seventh hole, which is a par 5 and 606 yards long. It has several water features, a hole that is lower than the tee, and a rock face that travels the length of the hole. An Ireland golf vacation is not complete without a trip to Kildare Hotel & Country Club. The green fees are €265. Hotels guests get a discount, and only have to pay €SSS105.

The Kildare Hotel is the best place to stay if you want to explore this course, as you receive a great discount. Kildare is only twenty miles from Dublin, so there are a myriad of things to do just a short drive from the hotel. Be sure to explore some of the history of this famous city. The Kildare Hotel is home to the K Spa where personal trainers are on hand to help make the most of your visit.

Royal Country Down

Royal Country Down is a must see of all Ireland golf tours. This course is famous for its beauty, and was built on some of Ireland's best golf terrain. Dundrum Bay and the Mourn Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for this course, which is one of Ireland's finest. It was designed by Tom Morris in 1889. The championship course, which is fairly challenging, is £55 during the week and £65 on the weekend during the off season, and £125 during the week and £140 on the weekend during the prime season.

The third hole is one of the hardest, and is 473 yards long at a par four. The fairway is split-level. If you are going to golf Royal County Down, make sure you bring your camera! The views are simply stunning! The Championship course is a par 74, and the Annesley Links Course is par 63. The price of the Championship Course is £90, and the Annesley Links is £18.

Near the Royal County Down is the Slieve Donard Hotel, one of the most beautiful hotels in Newcastle. The private gardens lead right up to the golf club. For a more traditional feel, you can stay in the Ramada Belfast or the Mourne County Hotel. Royal County Down is near Newcastle, providing visitors with a variety of activities. The most popular thing to do when visiting Royal County Down is to explore the beautiful coast and countryside.

County Sligo Golf Club

The County Sligo Golf Club is located on Ireland's northwest coast. This course provides guests with the chance to get away from civilization and golf among small seaside villages. The course was built by Harry S. Colt in the 1920's, and provides a beautiful view of the nearby coast. The fees range between €65 and €80. There is an 18 course, which is par 72, and a nine-hole course, which is par 35. This popular course has hosted all of the major championships of Ireland at least once and is among the top 100 best courses worldwide.

The closest hotel to Sligo is the Radisson SAS Hotel. For a more local feel, consider visiting the Riverside Hotel and Leisure Centre. This hotel sits right on the River Garavogue. On the edge of the Donegal Bay, you can stay in the Sandhouse Hotel, another local favorite. Visitors to Sligo enjoy exploring the quaint fishing villages and spending time on the coast and beaches.

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