Doonbeg, derived from ‘Dun Beag’ meaning small fort, is a picturesque village along the Atlantic coast, about 40 minutes west of Shannon airport. Nestled beside a 16th-century castle built for the Earl of Thomond, Doonbeg is unmistakable with its towering sand dunes, where Greg Norman crafted his sole design in the British Isles.
Norman, captivated by the mile-and-a-half crescent of Doughmore Bay, made 23 visits to this spectacular links-land. His design philosophy was minimalistic, preserving the natural contours with little earth movement. The course, which opened in 2002, features an old-fashioned layout following an out-and-back style typical of traditional links architecture.
Notably, the layout boasts an unusual configuration of five par 3s and five par 5s across its 6,885 yards from the back tees. The signature 14th hole, a 111-yard par 3, commands attention with its challenging green set against the Atlantic backdrop.
Despite its American ownership and exclusive membership philosophy, Doonbeg welcomes public play, offering a chance for locals and international visitors alike to experience its charm.
In 2014, the Trump Organization acquired Doonbeg, renaming it Trump International Golf Links & Hotel, Ireland. A significant investment ensued, including a redesign led by Martin Hawtree over two years, reaffirming Doonbeg’s status as a premier destination on Ireland’s west coast.
