Out and About: South West Ireland

Lush green fairways, towering dunes, and the classic design each venue possess pay homage to the early beginnings of these famed courses. The history and culture of these coastal towns have their local links at their core, and a chance to walk in the footsteps of the prior great’s is nothing short of spectacular. Whether it’s Lahinch or Ballybunion, Tralee, or Waterville, the list of world-class links so densely packed into Co. Kerry and Co. Clare seems never-ending.

A wild, untamed appearance and fescue-covered dunes are noteworthy trademarks of Ballybunion, while the two resident billy goats at Lahinch serve as both the mascot and the local weather guide; if they are sheltering near the clubhouse, prepare your waterproofs and rain gloves because you are in for a wet round. Vistas of the sea, a steady breeze, and the rolling Irish hills offer guests the perfect afternoon oasis.

Situated in the town of Tralee, The Rose Hotel is in the perfect location close to the town centre offering a great selection of local bars and restaurants with a backdrop of the Slieve Mish Mountains. The modern hotel boasts comfortable and spacious bedrooms, two onsite restaurants, Dott's Bar as a fully equipped gym and spa.

Alternatively, if you're searching for a touch of luxury, Dromoland Castle in Limerick can provide just this. The 5-star hotel which is steeped in history is a luxury resort with an award-winning restaurant, superb onsite facilities and a championship golf course.

Host to the 2026 Ryder Cup, Adare Manor is one to add to your golfing bucket list. The extravagant 5-star hotel has won the Golf Digest's Editors’ Choice Award as the 'Best Golf Resorts in Great Britain and Ireland’ for 3 years running and rightfully so. With a mixture of villas, townhouses and hotel rooms to choose from, the Manor is suitable for smaller and larger groups of golfers.

It’s no surprise that the South West is one of the top destinations for golf in Ireland. It’s not just the championship golf courses on offer that makes it so popular, but the wide variety of course layouts in awe-inspiring locations.

Old Head Links juts out over two miles into the Atlantic; the promontory is almost an island with numerous caves running beneath your feet as you play the course. All eighteen holes provide stunning ocean views. The views across the property are some of the best any golfer is likely to find across the globe. experience is one of a kind and sits comfortably atop our list of golfing delights.

Killarney, known for having a variety of cuisines to choose from, offers culinary delights from cultures all around the world. A personal favourite, however, is the family-run Porterhouse Restaurant, which serves delectable pub fare. An array of menu items will surly satiate any appetite, all to be enjoyed with live Irish music that creates a fun and relaxing ambience.

The award-winning Yew Tree Restaurant of the Muckross Park Hotel presents elegance and fine dining at its best. Local Kerry produce influences the seasonal creations you’ll find on the menu, while Executive Chef John O’Leary’s careful attention ensures the true flavours of Ireland shine through in his every dish.

To curb your post-dinner sweet tooth, Murphy’s Ice Cream is a no brainer. A mainstay in the top 10 rankings of ice cream shops worldwide, the array of flavours and cheery attendants add to the charm this local shop oozes.