GLEN OF THE DOWNS GOLF CLUB

This is one of those courses that looks and feels as if it has evolved over time rather than been purpose built but that is down to the skills of the architect and construction company, because underneath that very natural-looking course, with its magnificent panoramas of the Wicklow Mountains and the Irish Sea, is a thoroughly modern construction, with all the playability benefits that brings.

Much of the layout has been built to exacting USGA specifications, with sand-based tees and greens, that allows play to go on even under severe weather conditions. The 18-hole track stretches to around 6,500 yards and is similar in character to a links course, although it has many elevated tees. There are some great holes and designer Peter McEvoy is particularly proud of the par-3s here. Some of the best holes are around the turn, with  a five-tier double green shared by the 8th and 10th holes and the superb par-5  9th, which measures 500 yards off the back tees.

Golfers of all levels are sure to find the course, ideally located just a half hour's drive from the city centre of Dublin, a challenge with its natural slopes and valleys, combined with McEvoy's rolling fairways and some 90 bunkers. The course is easy to walk around although there are buggies available for hire. The Glen of the Downs Clubhouse has been designed to blend perfectly with the sloping hills of the golf course and the dramatic contours of the Wicklow Mountains. The Clubhouse is fully equipped to handle both large functions and individuals with a lovely restaurant, bar and lounge area, member's bar, pro shop, terrace and locker rooms.