Portmarnock Golf Club, Portmarnock, Ireland

If the British Open were ever to be held in the Irish Republic, it would surely be hosted by the Portmarnock Golf Club. A former Walker Cup and multiple Irish Open host including in 2003, Portmarnock is a club with an atmosphere and tradition equal to the famous Open Championship venues in Britain. It is a timeless links, right out of the Muirfield mold, and like Muirfield has only one blind shot, with the rest of the challenge right there for you to see, making it a favorite of the pros. In fact, the entire club has a British Open feel to it, unique in the Republic of Ireland, from the nature of the links to the classic clubhouse. You will be “watched” as you play the course, as the seaside holes have terrific views of “Ireland’s Eye,” a famous rock formation in the Irish Sea, especially the par-3 15th, running parallel to the coast, where you may have to start your ball out to sea and let the breeze bring it back. The drive to the club is really special, as you can see the beautiful clubhouse across the estuary, before driving out on the promontory to get to the links. “Be Up” is the motto of the club, and we are sure “up” for a visit to this most memorable of clubs!