Back in July I was lined up to play golf at one of Ireland's most outstanding parkland courses; Dromoland Castle Golf Club. The golf course is only one aspect of the high class resort. The main attraction is the Dromoland Castle, which was the ancestral home of the O'Briens, the kings of Thomond, and dates back to the late 15th, early 16th century.

Arriving on site feels like you've stepped into a time machine. As I drove up a horse drawn carriage passed me on the road, with the massive castle in the background. The area is heavily forested, with lakes and streams dotting and crossing the property.

The 5 star hotel (the castle) offers activities such as archery and falconry that add to the mythical aura around the property.

The golf course was reminiscent of what I am used to back home in Eastern Nebraska. The layout curves around lakes and has a few dramatic elevation changes that put the property into perspective. The course itself is a good mix of challenge, with sound strategy being key to a successful round. The par 3s and short par 4s are the highlight, mainly the 179 yard par 3 7th, with its huge drop off, the short (323 yd) par 4 9th with it's multiple routes, and the even shorter (273 yd) par 4 with its steep drop and endless trouble. 

Overall the experience was memorable. Combining such an ancient building with a modern golf course provides a perfect mix, and a taste of home, for parkland golf in Ireland.