Clonmel Golf Club
March 31, 2026Clonmel Golf Club
March 31, 2026A Three-Day Dublin Golf Escape
Articles
The Island and Wicklow’s Hidden Gems
For golfers planning a short Irish golf break, the ideal itinerary blends one unforgettable links experience with a selection of courses that offer both value and variety.
Just north and south of Dublin, you’ll find exactly that balance—anchored by the spectacular The Island Golf Club and complemented by three excellent hidden gems that deliver memorable golf without premium price tags.
The Main Event:
The Island Golf Club
Tucked between the Irish Sea and the Broadmeadow Estuary, The Island Golf Club is one of Ireland’s most visually dramatic and rewarding links courses. While it may not have the global profile of some neighbouring names, many seasoned golfers consider it every bit as compelling—if not more so.
The course is defined by towering dunes, narrow fairways, and a routing that demands thoughtful shot-making from start to finish. Unlike flatter links layouts, The Island constantly shifts elevation, offering elevated tees, blind approaches, and thrilling carries over natural sand formations.
Recent enhancements have elevated its conditioning and design, further cementing its reputation as one of the finest links courses in the country. The closing stretch, in particular, is among the most memorable in Irish golf.
With green fees typically ranging from €180–€250, The Island sits firmly in the “premium experience” category—but delivers outstanding value for the quality on offer.
The Hidden Gems:
Great Golf Without the Price Tag
Corballis Links Golf Club
Just minutes from The Island, Corballis offers a completely different—but equally enjoyable—links experience. Short, quirky, and full of character, it challenges players with tight fairways and ever-changing wind conditions.
At €30–€60, it’s exceptional value - and a perfect way to ease into your trip.
One hole to look out for:
One hole that perfectly captures the spirit of Corballis Links Golf Club is its short par-4 6th. Drivable in the right wind, it tempts aggression, but punishes anything offline with dunes and rough. It’s a classic risk-and-reward links hole—fun, unpredictable, and unforgettable.
Arklow Golf Club
Heading south into Wicklow, Arklow provides a classic links experience at a fraction of the cost of Ireland’s marquee venues. Firm fairways, natural dunes, and a relaxed atmosphere make it a joy to play.
Green fees typically range from €40–€80, making it one of the best-value seaside courses in the region.
One hole to look out for:
A standout at Arklow Golf Links is the par-3 12th, played directly toward the Irish Sea. Often exposed to swirling winds, club selection is everything. The elevated tee offers stunning views, but the narrow green demands precision—making it as challenging as it is visually memorable.
Blainroe Golf Club
Blainroe offers a slightly different pace. Blending parkland and coastal holes, it provides scenic variety and a more forgiving test. Overlooking the Irish Sea, it’s an ideal course for a relaxed round while still delivering plenty of memorable moments.
Expect to pay between €50–€90, keeping it firmly within the “hidden gem” category.
One hole to look out for:
A highlight at Blainroe Golf Club is the par-3 15th, perched above the Irish Sea. The tee shot plays downhill to a well-guarded green, with coastal winds adding uncertainty. It’s a visually stunning hole where club selection is crucial and the views are every bit as memorable as the challenge.
Suggested 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1:Arrival & Corballis Links
Arrive into Dublin Airport and head north to Corballis—just a 20-minute drive. It’s the perfect starting point: affordable, quick to play, and a great introduction to Irish links golf.
Evening: Stay in Malahide or begin your journey south toward Wicklow.Day 2:The Island – The Showstopper
Make your way to The Island Golf Club for the highlight of the trip. Arrive early to soak in the surroundings and prepare for a challenging but unforgettable round. Expect demanding drives, strategic approaches, and ever-present wind adding complexity to every shot. The natural dunes and isolation create a unique atmosphere that feels far removed from the nearby city.
Evening: Travel south toward Wicklow and settle in for the final leg of your trip.Day 3:Arklow or Blainroe (or both!)
Finish your trip with a flexible final round: Choose Arklow for one more traditional links experience Or opt for Blainroe if you prefer a slightly gentler, scenic finish Both courses offer excellent value and are conveniently located for the return journey to Dublin.
Where to Stay
- Grand Hotel Malahide – Ideal for your first night near The Island and Corballis
- Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort – A comfortable base for exploring Wicklow
- The Martello Hotel – A lively and more affordable seaside option
Where to Eat
- Aqua Restaurant – Outstanding seafood with harbour views
- The Happy Pear – Fresh, casual, and consistently excellent
- Platform Pizza – Perfect for a relaxed evening
Final Thoughts
This itinerary delivers the perfect balance for a short Dublin golf trip. The Island Golf Club provides a dramatic, world-class links experience, while Corballis, Arklow, and Blainroe offer variety, charm, and outstanding value.
For golfers seeking both quality and affordability, this three-day escape showcases the very best of what the Dublin and Wicklow region has to offer—without the need for an extravagant budget.
Typical Costs (Per Person)
Green fees:
- The Island: €180–€250
- Corballis: €30–€60
- Arklow: €40–€80
- Blainroe: €50–€90
Accommodation:
(2 nights): €180–€350
Food & drink:
€100–€150
Transport:
€60–€120
Estimated total:
€600–€950 per golfer