Top 10 tips for planning a golf trip to Ireland

Whether you’re looking for a short weekend break or a trip of a lifetime, Ireland should be top of the list for any golf fan. Ireland is one of the world’s best golfing destinations with hundreds of miles of unspoiled and unexplored landscape.

An Irish golf break gives golfers the opportunity to experience stunning coastal courses with beautiful views, as well as some of the most phenomenal inland courses around. However, as this small island can be temperamental and tricky to navigate, we’ve put together our top tips for your epic Ireland golf trip.

Tips for a golf trip to Ireland:

1. Pick a region
2. Book with a company
3. Check the weather
4. Pack properly
5. Drive yourself
6. Play with locals
7. Consider a caddy
8. Don’t forget the hidden gems
9. Take a day off
10. Embrace the experience

 

1. Pick a region

Ireland is a small country, but don’t let this deceive you! It can take all day to drive from one side to the other, so before you go it’s best to pick a region and stick to it. In the Dublin area, some of our favourites are Portmarnock, Malahide and City West. Or, if you’re heading to Cork be sure to check out Fota Island, Castlemartyr and The Kingsley. Unless you have weeks and weeks, it’s best not to mix regions as you’ll spend too much time in the car and not enough time on the links.

2. Book with a company

We know Ireland isn’t exactly a foreign culture, but there is a lot to see and do and booking with a company will help ensure you get the most out of your trip. If you want to know the best courses to visit, consulting an expert will help you decide, plus they will have access to all the options in one place, allowing you to compare. Golf Travel Centre can make your trip hassle-free, giving you more time to plan the itinerary and pack your bags.

3. Check the weather

While we’re talking about packing, the weather is always an important consideration for any golf trip to Ireland as the climate is famously variable – there can be blazing sunshine in February and downpours throughout July. It’s best to be prepared for any eventuality by bringing light layers, woolly socks and your best waterproof. It’s best to do some research on the weather throughout the year or take a look at our tips on the Best Time to Play Golf in Ireland here.

4. Pack properly

The combinations of small rental cars and the varying weather means that seriously good packing should be a high priority. As we have already mentioned, we suggest planning for cold weather, even in the summer but keep a pair of sunglasses on you even during winter. Many courses in Ireland are walking only so be sure to pack light during the day. Check out our guide to the ultimate Ireland Golf Trip Packing List here.  

5. Drive yourself

Once you’ve actually arrived, renting a car is the best option for Ireland as this gives you the freedom to explore the beautiful country. You can check out any golf courses you see along the way or pop into a cosy pub on your way back to the hotel. We know you’re visiting to play golf, but Ireland has scenery like no other and it shouldn’t be missed – hiring a car will give you this option.

6. Play with locals

A golf trip is all about the company you keep, and while you might be travelling with your usual group of mates, they will still play the same round of golf they play at home. Playing with an Irish companion is a great way to get exposure to different golfing styles and a taste of the infamous Irish sense of humour. By chatting to locals you may also pick up tips for those must-see spots and get some inspiration for your next trip.

7. Consider a caddy

It may seem extravagant, but if you’re visiting Ireland you must be interested in experiencing some of the most challenging (and best) courses in the world. It might help to have someone to guide you and offer advice on the course along the way. A caddy is a great way to ensure you can concentrate on your game, experience some Irish charm and pick up some local knowledge.

8. Don’t forget the hidden gems

There are some world famous courses in Ireland and they always make it on to any golfer’s bucket list, but it is always worth getting off the beaten track and exploring the courses that don’t come with a heady reputation. This will allow you to avoid crowds of people and you won’t have to fight for your spot. Plus, these courses are almost always cheaper and you will see parts of Ireland that many will miss out on.

9. Take a day off

The best golf trips in Ireland are anything between a week to 10 days so that your group can explore the countryside and adjust to jet lag if necessary. Don’t play golf every day, consider a day off in the middle and make the most of some of Ireland’s best tourist attractions or scenic hikes.

10. Embrace the experience

Last but not least, be sure to make the most of your experience. Ireland is an unbelievably stunning country especially if you head to the coast where golfers will spend most of their time. The pace of life is a little slower and more chilled and it may take you a day or two to settle in. So yes, enjoy your rounds of golf but don’t worry too much about how you play and focus on enjoying the full experience. Embrace the weather, whatever it is, eat some local food and plan to leave with a lifetime of memories.

If you are considering this once in a lifetime trip, you will have to consider how much does a golf trip to Ireland cost. The answer will depend on many factors, such as where you choose to play, where you want to stay, whether you hire a car and your costs at the course. Typically, an Irish golf trip won’t be cheap, but it’s worth every penny! You can find out more about our golf breaks in Ireland here.