There are certain places in the world of golf that stop you in your tracks before you’ve even struck a ball — and Doonbeg is one of them. Perched on the Atlantic shoreline in County Clare, Trump International Golf Links & Hotel Ireland offers a spectacular blend of dramatic scenery, world-class links golf, and a feeling of tranquility that only the Wild Atlantic Way can provide.
The lodges left of the 17th fairway
From the moment you turn off the country road and onto the property, and you catch sight of the rugged dunes, the lodges and then the hotel, you know you’re in for something special. Whether you’re chasing a low score, soaking in the scenery, or just happy to be swinging a club in such an extraordinary setting, Doonbeg delivers.
A Links Course With Real Bite
The Martin Hawtree-designed course — reshaped after storm damage from its original Greg Norman layout — is a true links in every sense: undulating fairways, native grasses, firm greens, and ever-present wind. The layout feels natural, as though the holes have always existed within the dunes. That’s part of the magic here. It’s a course that’s demanding, but never unfair. You’ll be rewarded for strategy, punished for complacency, and constantly challenged to adapt to the elements.
There are five sets of tees to choose from ranging from 5006 yards to 7057 yards. We chose to play from the gold tees at 6436 yards and it proved to be the correct set of tees for us. As always, select the set of tees that suit your game for maximum enjoyment.
Choosing just six holes to feature in this article was a challenge as there was plenty to choose from. We have chosen to feature 1, 6 and 7 on the front nine and the stretch from 13 through 15 on the back nine. Special mention must go to the 4th, 5th and 9th, and the 11th and 18th which is our header photo. You may have others as your favourites and that’s fine. It’s all about opinions after all.
A Gentle Opener
The beautifully framed 1st green
The opening hole at Doonbeg is a par 5 of 534 yards with a fairway is wide enough to calm your nerves on the first tee. We didn’t hit a good enough tee shot to go for the green in two. We hit 6 iron the gap wedge into 15 feet but missed the putt for birdie. If you keep it out of the rough and the bunkers, this is a gentle introduction to the course and an easy par.
The Risk/Reward Hole
The short par 4 6th hole
There is only 5 yards difference between the 5th and 6th holes. The 5th was a driver then a 9 iron as it was uphill. The 6th is 297 yards and is in reach for the longer hitters but it’s tight up at the green. We can’t hit it that distance, even in a left to right wind, so went with 3 wood into the fairway then a sand wedge to about 18 feet. Once again we failed to convert the birdie putt. The sensible play gave us the chance though…..
The first par 3, the 7th hole
Standing on the 7th tee, we were undecided what to hit. The hole measures 204 yards and the wind was left to right. We decided on the 5 wood instead of the 4 iron and it turned out to be the right choice. The tee shot carried the second bunker on the left and reached the front of the green. Two putts later we had our par.
Back Nine Drama
Your tee shot on the 13th hole
The 13th hole is the last of the five par 5’s at Doonbeg. The hole is 495 yards and plays uphill and flows from left to right. We hit one of our best tee shots of the day on this hole and were left with just over 220 yards to the green.
Can we avoid the sand on our 2nd shot to 14?
We went with our 5 wood for our second shot, even though we can’t hit it 220 yards. The thought process was that we needed elevation to carry those bunkers on the slope. It proved to be the correct play as we finished just short of the green. Our pitch and run was a little clumsy and went 8 feet past leaving us a right to left downhill putt which we failed to convert, again!
Signature Hole
The short but stunning 14th hole
At 137 yards, the 14th hole was almost playing its full length. Fortunately for us, the wind was right to left and across meaning we could aim at the centre of the green with no fear. We went with a 9 iron and hit a lovely shot right at the flag. It finished 9 feet short of the hole and we managed to sink the putt for our second birdie of the day. We even have it on video to prove it…..Check out the link at the end of this article.
Our Final Selection
The 15th hole
The 15th hole is just over 350 yards and again the wind was right to left. We went with driver off the tee and were fortunate as we cut it into the wind which held it up on the fairway. Why were we fortunate? Well, if it have went another 5 yards we would have been down in the gully which you can’t really see off the tee.
Our “perfectly placed” tee shot
Even though we were lucky with our tee shot, our second shot with a wedge got caught on the wind and finished 30 feet left of the pin. Thankfully we managed to two putt to walk off with a par. The photo above is why we selected to feature the 15th hole over others. Again, the green is framed by the dunes and gives a little drama to an otherwise straightforward wedge into the green.
In Our Opinion
What really elevates Doonbeg is the attention to detail in the overall experience. From the warm welcome in the hotel and pro shop to the friendly course services staff to the caddies and immaculately maintained course, every touchpoint feels premium but relaxed. We have played over 30 courses in Ireland over the last 3 years and we have to say that we have never felt more welcome than at Doonbeg. Every staff member we interacted with was a nice as can be and it never felt forced or unnatural. That in itself is one of the reasons we loved Doonbeg.
Where to Stay
The 18th green and the hotel in the background
If you can afford to do it stay at the hotel or in the lodges, the experience is truly special. The hotel and golf course were really busy when we stayed and the bar and restaurants were buzzing with golfers and guests.It really was a special atmosphere. Even though it was busy, the bar and restaurant staff were on their toes, keeping everyone suitably refreshed and food orders were delivered quickly.
Our lounge
We were fortunate to be allocated one of the town houses just across the courtyard from the main building. To be honest, it was far too big for just the two of us. The lounge on the ground floor was spacious with high-quality finishes, and a small kitchen and downstairs toilet.
Our bedroom
Upstairs, we had a bedroom the size of two of ours at home with a large bathroom. The bed was an American king size so plenty of room to stretch out. The bed was really comfortable and encouraged a great nights sleep.
Breakfast Heaven
One of the biggest breakfast menus we have seen
Breakfast at Doonbeg is an event. The menu is extensive to say the least. We had two of the three versions of the porridge and it was superb. We then had poached eggs and avocado toast (me) and the Muesli with fresh fruit and yogurt (my wife). It was excellent and set us up for the day.
Location, Atmosphere & Off-Course Appeal
Doonbeg is remote, but that’s a big part of its charm. The drive from Shannon Airport is just over an hour, winding through villages and coastal views that set the tone for what’s to come. You’re in west Clare now — where time slows down and everything feels just a bit more relaxed.
If you’re building a golf itinerary, Doonbeg pairs beautifully with nearby courses like Lahinch and Ballybunion, making for an unforgettable Wild Atlantic Way golf trip.
But even if you only play one round here, it’s enough to leave an impression. Doonbeg is a course that rewards repeat play, where every visit feels slightly different depending on the wind, the bounce, and the mood of the ocean.
Final Thoughts
Trump International Ireland at Doonbeg isn’t just a round of golf — it’s an immersive experience. It’s where classic links golf meets modern comfort, where every shot matters, and where the Atlantic Ocean feels like your playing partner. As you would expect, the course was in immaculate condition and the greens were in excellent condition, especially after the harsh winter on the west coast of Ireland.
Whether you’re aiming to break 80, simply want to play one of Ireland’s best coastal courses, or are looking for a peaceful golf getaway, Doonbeg is well worth the journey. Bring your A-game, your camera, and a sense of adventure. This is links golf at its wild, windy, and wonderful best.
Thank You
Thanks to Evan Butler, Regional Director of Sales and Marketing for arranging our stay and golf. Thank you also to Kenneth, our concierge who showed us around the hotel. A massive thank you to Brian Shaw, Head Golf Professional for arranging our golf over the two days and to Dale and the rest of the proshop staff for being so helpful and understanding our requirements. Not forgetting the guest services team who looked after me on the course. Thank you one al all for a memorable stay.
At a Glance
- 18 hole championship links
- Large practice area with short game and a putting greens
- Large proshop stocked with premium brands and excellent staff
- Wonderful staff from the concierge, to the bar and waiting staff and the guest services team and proshop
- Excellent variety of accommodation onsite
- How did I do on the Signature Hole? Watch here
- Trump International Golf Links and Hotel Ireland website
Jim Callaghan CCM is a former Club Manager with experience overseeing several top Scottish Golf Clubs.
Now, as European Editor of Golf Operator Magazine and World’s Best Golf Destinations, he shares insights into club operations and his golfing adventures across Europe.
Jim is also an Ambassador for premium clothing brand Fenix Xcell Clothing and also for the Spanish local DMC, Costa Verde Golf.
If your club/resort or brand wants to reach over 400,000 golfers, contact Jim at [email protected] or call 0044 (0) 78522 88732.
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