Carne Golf Links in Belmullet, County Mayo, is situated in a picturesque and secluded setting along the Atlantic coast. Designed by Eddie Hackett, the original 18-hole layout was established in the early 1990s to draw golf enthusiasts to this remote and underappreciated region of western Ireland.
The Kilmore nine was added in 2013, taking advantage of the dramatic dunes that characterise the landscape. Architect Ally McIntosh, working closely with course director Eamon Mangan, oversaw the planning and development, emphasising the natural contours and features of the land. Challenges included managing significant elevation changes while maintaining a compact and enjoyable course layout.
After storm damage necessitated a two-year closure of the Kilmore nine, it reopened in 2019. In subsequent years, Carne hosted the Irish PGA Championship on its new Wild Atlantic Dunes 18-hole configuration, combining the Kilmore nine with the original Hackett course back nine.
A visit to Ireland’s west coast for golf enthusiasts should include Carne alongside County Sligo, Enniscrone, and Connemara. These courses offer a unique and naturally beautiful links golf experience that captures the rugged charm of the Atlantic coastline.
