Destination Guide: North-West Ireland
- 3 days ago
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Wild Links Golf Along the Atlantic Edge
Northwest Ireland offers one of the most distinctive golf regions in the country. Stretching across Counties Donegal and Sligo, this part of Ireland is known for its dramatic Atlantic coastline, quiet beaches and outstanding Irish links golf.
Many golfers planning golf trips to Ireland include the northwest to experience courses that combine world-class design with fewer crowds than some of the more established destinations. Courses such as Carne Golf Links, Enniscrone Golf Club, County Sligo Golf Club (Rosses Point), and Narin & Portnoo Links provide some of the most memorable golf on any Ireland golf tour.
Beyond the fairways, visitors discover rugged landscapes, historic towns, and some of the friendliest pubs in the country.
Sightseeing: Slieve League Cliffs
Often overshadowed by the Cliffs of Moher, Slieve League is one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets.
These sea cliffs rise nearly three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher and offer breathtaking views across the Atlantic. On a clear day, you can see the coastline stretching endlessly in both directions.
Travel tip: A short walk from the main viewing area offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to experience the landscape up close.
Sightseeing: Glenveagh National Park
Hidden deep in the Donegal mountains, Glenveagh National Park is a vast wilderness of lakes, hills, and remote beauty.
At the centre of the park sits Glenveagh Castle, a 19th-century estate surrounded by gardens, lakes and mountain scenery. Visitors can explore scenic walking trails, cycle through the valley roads, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
For golfers travelling between courses in Donegal, it provides a very different experience from the coastal links landscapes.
Travel tip: Allow a couple of hours to explore the castle grounds and walking trails.
Regional Highlight: Surfing in Bundoran
Bundoran is known as Ireland’s surfing capital, offering an energetic contrast to a day on the golf course. Beginners and experienced surfers alike can take lessons on the Atlantic waves or simply watch the pros from the promenade.
Bundoran is more than just waves. The town has a charming small-town vibe with a variety of cafés, pubs, and family-friendly amusements. Visitors can explore the Waterworld Leisure Centre, ride the Bundoran Adventure Park or enjoy traditional seaside fun along the promenade. Its mix of laid-back coastal life and activity makes it an ideal stop on a Northwest Ireland golf trip, particularly for groups travelling with non-golfers.
Travel Tip: Try to catch the sunset from the promenade after a surf session or a day on the course Home - Discover Bundoran, County Donegal
Traditional Irish Music
The northwest is known for its strong musical heritage.
In many towns, traditional music sessions happen spontaneously in pubs with fiddles, whistles and bodhráns filling the room late into the evening.
You’ll rarely need to search hard to find one, but here are our recommendations if you need a little guidance:
• Olde Castle Seafood Bar – Donegal Town (serves a great Guinness!)
Local Food & Dining
Northwest Ireland has an outstanding food scene built around fresh Atlantic seafood and local produce.
Excellent options include:
Eala Bhán (Sligo) – modern Irish cuisine in a historic townhouse
Anderson’s Boathouse (Donegal) – exceptional seafood overlooking the harbour
The Rusty Mackerel (near Slieve League) – a well-known coastal pub with great food and views
Travel Tip: Many restaurants in the northwest work closely with local fishermen and seasonal suppliers, so menus often change daily depending on what’s landed along the coast.
Local Tip from Our Team
Allow additional travel time when planning a North-west Ireland golf trip. Distances between courses such as Carne, Enniscrone and County Sligo (Rosses Point) can take longer than expected due to coastal routes and smaller roads.
