1 Night, 2 Rounds
- 1 Night Bed and Breakfast at Dillons Hotel
- 1 Round at Narin & Portnoo Links
- 1 Round at Cruit Island
1 Night, 2 Rounds
Cruit Island delivers a compact 9-hole layout that punches well above its weight. Set on the windswept edge of County Donegal, it's a genuine links test, raw, rugged and miles from manicured resort golf.
Perched along the Wild Atlantic Way, it's a short drive from Dungloe and a handy stop on a wider Donegal run. You'll often see it crop up in 'hidden gem' round-ups and for good reason. Designed by Michael Doherty, the professional at City of Derry Golf Club, it makes the most of its setting with natural dunes, tight corridors and greens that ask for a confident strike.
Don't let the yardage fool you. With the Atlantic breeze rarely taking a day off, you'll need control, imagination and smart course management rather than brute force. Exposed to winds that can easily make a two-club difference in a heartbeat, it rewards local knowledge and punishes complacency. Pick the right line, flight it correctly and you'll score. Switch off for a moment and the wind and ground game will keep you honest.
Cruit Island also fits brilliantly into a North West itinerary, pairing well with Narin & Portnoo and Rosapenna, around 45 and 60 minutes away respectively.
Who is this for?
Golfers chasing an authentic, off-the-beaten-track Irish links round in one of Donegal's most scenic corners.
Who is it best for?
Players who value character and shot-making over length, plus anyone building a multi-course Donegal tour.
1 Night, 2 Rounds
2 Nights, 2 Rounds
2 Nights, 2 Rounds
3 Nights, 3 Rounds
3 Nights, 3 Rounds
Cruit Island is a par 68, 9 hole links course that is defined by its rugged, natural beauty, offering a classic links experience with undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and firm, fast greens. It's a true test of links golf, where the ever-changing weather conditions add another layer of challenge.
While it may not have hosted large-scale professional tournaments, its reputation amongst amateur golfers and golf writers is testament to its quality. For first-time players, accuracy off the tee is paramount, as wayward shots can be punished by the thick rough and gorse. The ever-present wind also plays a significant role, requiring strategic club selection and shot placement.
The views from the clubhouse, overlooking the course and the Atlantic Ocean, are simply breathtaking and provide a perfect backdrop to a memorable day of golf.
| Par | 68 |
|---|---|
| Designed by | Michael Doherty |
| Opened for play | 1986 |
| Gent | 5,141 metres | SSS 67 |
|---|---|---|
| Ladies | 4,296 metres | SSS 68 |