Hidden away in “Yeats Country” in the North West of Ireland, The Castle Dargan Estate is set on 170 acres of mature woodlands with unrivalled scenery and a rich and romantic heritage.

The Estate’s original house is the centrepiece of an exciting new Hotel, Golf and Wellness retreat which recently opened its gates to members and residents. Originally built in the 18th century, its 21st. century restoration has rekindled the country lifestyle of its early years. Castle Dargan House and castle vestiges stand testament to the wonderful sense of history that still lives in what is now a rare retreat for the discerning traveller.

I was delighted to be asked to design the new championship course at Castle Dargan along with Patrick Merrigan whose design experience at courses such as The Old Head of Kinsale was a wonderful benefit.

The site we had to work with should have been a golf course a long time ago. All we had to do was pull back some of the covers to reveal a truly outstanding piece of land. With this as a raw material, we simply embraced the natural contours and features of the estate rather than trying to impose a design on it. We worked with the magnificent mature trees, the old stone walls and natural lakes, and the course unveiled itself, as if it was always there.

With an expected official opening next May, the course is now growing-in and Steven Wood and his team are out every morning at 6.00am rolling, cutting and nurturing it through its early life.

The county of Sligo is home to two of Ireland’s finest links – Rosses Point and Enniscrone. I sincerely believe that with the opening of Castle Dargan, golfers living and travelling in this beautiful part of the world will now have a parkland eighteen to compliment its prestigious neighbours and a golf experience to savour.

Darren Clarke

For further information: www.castledargan.com