Donegal Golf Club

The remoteness of Murvagh, paired with the rather expansive piece of property, provides a sense of solitude that’s rarely equalled in the golfing world. For the well-traveled player, there may also be a bit of familiarity to the Donegal layout, one that harkens to the historic links of Muirfield. Just as it does at the Honourable Company, the opening-nine runs in a counterclockwise circle, while the back-nine flows in clockwise fashion inside of the outward side. The end result being a constantly changing test, as the prevailing wind taxes the player from every direction.

Out on the links, the 5th kicks off arguably the finest foursome of holes in Northwest Ireland. Known as the “Valley of Tears,” this par-3 has earned its name for a reason. Like the course itself, the tee shot requires a big and heroic strike across a ravine to a semi-blind, elevated green. Some may find the hole bears a resemblance to “Calamity” at Royal Portrush, and it is certainly no less daunting. Although the most interesting ground is found on the front-nine, the inward half is not without its highlights as well. Particularly the two monster par-5s and the wonderful short par-4 11th, where a bunkerless green may seem inviting but will test the short game to the fullest.

Although the region is often overshadowed by its famous counterparts around the British Isles, the intrepid golf traveler who visits Northwest Ireland is usually rewarded many times over. Nowhere is that better demonstrated than the Murvagh links, where great ground for golf, enjoyable design, and a bit of solitude all come together in unforgettable fashion. Throughout the round, you may find yourself wondering why more don’t bring their clubs to this part of world, but you’re sure to be glad that you did.