Golf is the single biggest sporting attraction in Ireland, with nearly a quarter of a million visitors traveling here specifically to play. The Irish landscape and climate, like those of Scotland, seem almost custom-designed for scenic links, fair fairways, green greens, and dramatic traps -- and there is never a shortage of 19th holes. In short, Ireland is a place of golfing pilgrimage.
Best of all, golfing is not confined to those with an Olympian income. Membership fees do not require mortgages, and greens fees for walk-ins are often quite modest, especially on weekdays and at off-peak hours.
Golf Resources
Tourism Ireland has a dedicated golf website with numerous contacts and links (no pun intended) at www.golf.discoverireland.ie/Home.aspx.
A host of U.S. companies offer package golf tours. Among them are Golf International (tel. 800/833-1389 or 212/986-9176; www.golfinternational.com) and Wide World of Golf (tel. 800/214-4653; www.wideworldofgolf.com).
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
