Doonbeg is Greg Norman's only creation in the UK and Ireland, and like many of his projects around the world, it is absolutely mind-blowing. The Great White Shark has created the Links Course by utilising the incredible dunes that…
Doonbeg is Greg Norman's only creation in the UK and Ireland, and like many of his projects around the world, it is absolutely mind-blowing. The Great White Shark has created the Links Course by utilising the incredible dunes that…
Norman was assisted by a team of consultants whose past projects include Kiawah Island, South Carolina, and Doonbeg does echo the rugged charm of its trans-Atlantic neighbour. A round at Doonbeg is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, owing to the numerous unforgettable challenges.
The focal point of the entire course is the astonishing 15th, which is built into the highest dunes on the site; landing the ball at the front edge of the 150-foot deep funnel-shaped green and wondering if it will stop before running off the back into no man's land is one of the most exhilarating shots in world golf.
For serious golfers, Doonbeg is as exciting a links course as you can find on a golf tour, and is a real credit to Greg Norman.
Set along a delightful stretch of coastline, the ocean is visible from 16 of the 18 holes.
The exquisite Lodge at Doonbeg is the perfect complement to Greg Norman's awe-inspiring golf course. With the Atlantic Ocean churning below, visitors to Doonbeg will enjoy ultimate in luxury.
Within the Lodge are the clubhouse, locker rooms, members' bar and the 47 Lodge Suites, which are fitted with the best in contemporary appliances including a self-contained kitchen, wooden fireplaces, and satellite TV. There are further accommodation options - Garden House, Norman and Courtyard Suites, and 28 Links Cottages - ranging from one to four bedrooms, and are available to visitors on a limited basis.
These units are designed to guarantee that guests have a truly memorable stay, and all are decorated and furnished to welcome visitors to a ‘home away from home'. Every suite has a sumptuous living area, well-equipped kitchen, and added touches of luxury that constantly remind you of Doonbeg's indulgent philosophy.
The Lodge also offers an array of fantastic dining options, particularly in the Long Room, where known-enthusiast Greg Norman may have influenced the superb wine list.
The White Horses Spa is named after the waves that roll into the County Clare coastline, and was designed by the internationally-renowned Clodagh Design of New York. The spa offers the latest in health and beauty treatments, and is one the few facilities to use the acclaimed Kerstin Florian skin care range. After tackling the demanding links, try the Par Excellence Golfer's Massage, specifically designed to address muscle soreness.
Doonbeg commissioned chef Tom Colicchio to direct the restaurant in the Long Room. Colicchio is the mastermind behind one of Manhattan's finest eateries, the Gramercy Tavern.
Try the signature treatment in the White Horses, the Pearls of the Sea Caviar Facial.
IGTOA - "Golf Resort of the Year" - 2008
Elite Traveler - "The 101 Best Suites in the World" - 2007
Conde Nast Traveler - 'Hot List Spas 2007'
Elite Traveler - "Great Eight" list - 2007
Hospitality Ireland - Awarded "Best Resort Hotel" in Ireland, 2007
Cigar Aficionado - "Best New International Golf Resort" - 2007
Celebrated Living - Reader's Choice Platinum List: "Top 20 International Courses" - 2007
Links magazine - "World's Best Golf Vacations" - 2006
GQ - "100 Best Things in the World" - 2006
Golf Monthly - "Britain and Ireland's Top 120 Courses" - 2006
Golf Digest - "Best New International Course" Doonbeg course opening, 2002
This venue has 2 reviews, with an average rating of 5 out of 5
Just back from our weekend in Doonbeg - I could write pages of rave review but suffice to say that we had an awesome stay. The accommodation was first rate, the staff were incredibly warm and friendly and the golf course provided a fantastic challenge. All the arrangements worked perfectly despite my initial anxiety! I suspect that you will have some more business from our group of friends who were all incredibly impressed and we are all keen to return and complete the experience (in particular the signature par 3 14th). Many thanks again for your help and looking forward to organising more trips,
The Doonbeg Golf Hotel was an excellent choice as a base for our Irish golf tour. The 4 bedroom cottages are ideal for groups and were extremely comfortable and very well equipped. The two restaurants there are also really good. In addition there is a pub called Morrissey's in Doonbeg village which is very good for dinner and a bit of craic!
As regards golf courses the group verdict was that Tralee, Waterville and the Old Head were outstanding and should never be missed - 9.5 out of 10 for each. Lahinch was 9 out of 10. The courses at Ballybunion were spoilt by the surly and unprofessional caddies. If you can out without a caddie do it! The caddies at the other courses were excellent, so it is difficult to understand why Ballybunion finds itself the odd man out. The tee timings were good, and the conclusion of all of us was that it was a very well organised trip. My intention would be to try to organise another visit to the area in the future, in the hope that we might hit a period which was a little less windy than we experienced!
All in all this was a great golf tour and we would recommend South West Ireland to any keen golfers out there who aren’t afraid of a little wind!