Later, we headed to one of the real institutions of Irish golf culture: the Port Bar. Filled with souvenirs and stories, it is arguably the 19th hole in the country.
The jerseys, photos, scorecards and signatures on the walls document the rich history of visiting golf masters.
The bar has become an informal club in the international golf community.
We soaked in a few pints of atmosphere and called it night, with a big round ahead.
Dunluce Awakening
After a quiet evening at the elephant rocks and a hearty breakfast, the time is up. Royal Portrush Golf Club’s Dunluce Link awaits, the crown jewel of Northern Ireland Golf and the host of this year’s Open Champions.
It’s been over twenty years since I last visited Porthush and a lot has changed, especially when Shane Lowry won two new holes in the 2019 victory Open.
The clubhouse is filled with history and monumental souvenirs, and is a delight to explore. The purple-red jug gleamed in its glass box, surrounded by legends and stories of the past.
When dawn fell, we drove away, first on the route, the wind rolling 30 mph on the Atlantic Ocean. Our early Gary is an absolute gem filled with insight, humor and open stories. In 2019, he was even asked to strollers in qualifying.
The wind makes every shot take risks, and Gary scores solidly on the difficulty scale 9/10.
The latter nine brings more stability in my game, with the help of the quick bite of the Midway Lodge and coffee.
By the end of the round, I was reluctant to throw the fairway. This is the most exciting, authentic and humblest thing about golf.
Nothing can harm the quality of the course. Each hole is a masterpiece, solid, strategic and breathtaking. The highlights appear in the terrible disaster corner, which is the third 16, extending 235 yards in the huge gap.
I equipped the driver with the weapon and I managed to find the green back, and the two were eager to get a proud par. It’s one of the most iconic 3 strokes in golf, and there’s good reason.
Farewell to the club
We returned to lunch for lunch at the Royal depicted clubhouse, exchanged stories and soaked.
There is a special energy in the air here, part history, part community and part basic power from the coast itself.
Driving back to Belfast to fly home, I reflected on the reason why this trip was so memorable.
Yes, golf is world-class. Yes, the scenery is not in this world. But it’s also people, caddies, hoteliers, restaurant owners and travelers, making it special.
Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast offers more than just a golf tour. It’s a rich experience, rich culture, wrapped in history and with a magical feel.
Travel Tips: Play and stay along the causeway coast
Get there
Fly to Belfast International (BFS) or George Belfast City Airport (BHD). Both are easily accessible to the Causeway coast (about 1-1.5 hours by car). Car rental is essential to properly explore the area – especially if you are hauling your golf clubs. Golf News with EasyJet www.easyjet.com Flying
Best time to visit
May to September provide the best opportunities for decent weather and course conditions. The summer evenings are long – perfect for a twilight trip.
Expert tips
If playing Royal Corporush, ask for expectations, they will help you browse the wind, read the greens, and add local colors to your wheel rings.
remember
Northern Ireland is part of public travel areas, which means there are no travel restrictions for UK travelers.
For more information, visit: www.ireland.com/northernireland
