Bantry Bay Golf Club

 Bantry Bay Golf Club's 18 Hole Championship Course, open all year, towers above the head of Bantry Bay, in the Far West of County Cork. Fourteen holes immediately overlook the shore where the warm Gulf Stream first touch land on this side of the Atlantic, Fuchsias abound, and there are splendid panoramic views across the sea and islands to the Beara Mountains, Sheep's Head and the Mizen Peninsula.

Course architects Eddie Hackett and Christy O'Connor Jnr., of Ryder Cup fame, in keeping with USGA standards, have adapted some 170 acres of picturesquely undulating scenery - even the six lakes and other hazards would charm a landscape artist.

They have created a course on which the scratch golfer must thoughtfully exert himself to achieve Par 71, while the Handicap golfer, too, has fair chance of glory. Great variety, from a Par 3 of a mere 126 meters to a Par 5 of 487 meters to a two-tier green, demands skilful versatility.

Founded in 1975, Bantry Bay is a cosmopolitan club, with more than a hundred members from abroad. Categories include Overseas Life Membership. The Clubhouse Bar and restaurant are noted for their friendly informality.

When not playing golf, visitors can enjoy various other local amenities and recreations - Bantry House and its Armada Centre, the Italian Gardens on Garnish Island, scenic drives, swimming from sandy beaches, sailing, diving, pony trekking, sea and fresh-water fishing...

There are excellent hotels, guest houses and restaurants close to the Club. There are 17 other golf courses within 100km of Bantry, which include Fota Golf Club, The Old Head Links at Kinsale, Killarney, Waterville and Ballybunion.