Rosapenna Golf Course

Established in 1895, Rosapenna Golf Course it set in the beautiful and remote Donegal countryside . The course is a combination of natural links and inland holes which stand on a peninsula between two lovely bays. Rosapenna is, to this day, one of the great natural golf courses in Ireland . Only three of the 18 greens had to be laid, as the other 15 are a vindication of Tom Morris' judgement of the turf. The first ten holes play along Sheephaven Bay between the two bays. The last eight play inland and uphill in meadow where the high grounds present distracting and delightful views.

Sandy Hills, a second 18 hole links that opened in June 2003, is overlooking the Old Tom Morris masterpiece. Each hole was caressed into life with loving artistry to challenge the skills of the modern day golfer and bombard their senses with a succession of majestic picture postcard scenes into which they are invited to play.

Rosapenna can now justifiably boast that it is one of the top golf resorts in Ireland; only Ballyliffin and Ballybunion have 36 links holes of similar quality.

Location
Downings, Co. Donegal , 30km north of Letterkenny

Facts and Details
Old Course
Type of course: Links Course
Holes: 18, Length: 5828m, Par: 70
Architect: Tom Morris Sr.

Sandy Hills Course
Type of course: Links Course
Holes: 18, Length: 6304m, Par: 71
Architect: Pat Ruddy

Grading
Old Course: ****
Sandy Hills Course: ****

Recommended accommodation
Arnolds Hotel

Comments
"It was a dream come true to play this old course. Beautiful views, on the back nine especially. I hope to get there again some day and play another round (which by the way took only three hours). A great experience. There is something quite nice about sharing space with cattle and sheep." (Guest Review)