Tralee Golf Course - 18 Holes of Ocean Views

My first drive on arriving in Ireland came with an unfortunate cracking sound, the journey had not treated my driver well and I was in need of a new shaft. A call ahead to Tralee confirmed a rental and that they would see what they could do with the broken club. By my third swing at the range my driver was back with a new shaft at a very reasonable price and a free wrench to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

The facilities were great with a decent sized driving range and good chipping and putting areas out the back of the clubhouse. There is also a large putting green in front to practice on before heading out. After a lovely chat with the starter John, it was time to head out. I had not requested a caddy but got the benefit of one from my playing partner and would absolutely recommend it. The course knowledge was obviously important but so were the stories and general motivation. "Many worse players have come before you!!!" All caddies at Tralee are members and I’m glad the local taxi man home accepted card payment, as the cash I had in my pocket was not enough of a tip for the insider information.

The Arnie designed front nine starts out with a straight par 4 which looks easy but with his statue looming behind you it’s pretty easy to make a mess of. But an early lesson in the rough and fairway side bunker was good to get out of the way and as you turn into the par 5 number two with the ocean to your right it’s time to relax and just take it all in.

Tralee boasts water views from all 18 holes and it is stunning. Working your way up and down the front nine you can’t help but marvel while all the time wondering, how can the back nine be better than this? The two par 3s stick out - the first running down to an ancient ruin and the second running along the coast, hitting the green is one thing - putting another. All of it challenging in the best kind of way.

The course brings you back past the clubhouse before you embark on the god designed piece. Starting with a long tough uphill par 5, from there it becomes golf heaven. The par 3 12th is the signature hole, a long par 3 over a ravine onto what looks like a table in the distance - from there are gullies, ravines, views, water, beaches, wind, rain and sunshine. Just play longer than usual and enjoy the ride.

From the first email all of the way to actually arriving at Tralee Golf Course, the staff were amazing, accommodating and friendly. Tralee was the full package, leaving you with a genuinely happy feeling and itch to return. When plotting your way around the courses of Western Ireland, don't leave it out.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Western Ireland. In need of further inspiration? Check out Terri O'Connell’s guide, Discovering the Magic of Western Ireland.