From my travels across many golf resorts, I have left my email address on more marketing lists than I care to mention. So I, like you all, get spammed to buggery. But in amongst some of the useless emails extolling the virtues of some 2nd rate golf course, there are a few gems that I like to be reminded of. I received one today......
Fota Island is nestled some 20 minutes from Cork City in Ireland. Ok, so my Irish bias may be prevailing but hear me out.
The resort, like a number in the Emerald Isle, has stunning scenery and with Cobh and Kinsale within reach its a perfect short break destination. But the golf course is a real gem. Home to the Irish Open for 2 years in the 90's, it benefits from 27 holes played across 3 different combinations.
The Deerpark is the layout they utilised for the Irish Open and its one I would recommend as a must if you are in the Cork area. The loop around 5-9 is awesome as you reach down my the river. The course has used the terrain, river and replanting really well. Good strong Par 5's and some intricate par 4's really allow you to enjoy the experience with opportunities to score well on most holes from the standard tees. The 18th is a breathtaking hole and has to be played to do it justice.
The hotel is superb, but for a great option hire one of the lodges, between 6 of you it can be really cost effective and is an awesome base for taking in other courses in the area.
If you're heading to the Cork area, I plead you to go to Fota........ you'll love it.
