“ New Forest ’ s greatest selling point is that it is both formidable and fun to play . You ’ ll certainly need your driver as fairways coast along the heavily wooded perimeter , around ponds and marshes , and over streams and bridges .”
DESTINATION GOLF 2024
New Forest
Carton House ( Montgomerie )
The two courses at Carton House are in sharp contrast to each other . It adds considerably to the experience of playing here ( and staying here ). The Montgomerie , opened in 2002 , was designed as an inland links and it certainly boasts tumbling and deceptive fairways , deep bunkers and glorious greens . There are few trees and when the rough is up , the course glows many shades of gold . This is one of Ireland ’ s toughest courses , so choosing the right tee and not trying to be heroic is the best place to start . Gentle doglegs abound and with that dramatic bunkering you need to stay above ground to score well . Host to three Irish Opens , and with the new Fairmont branding , you know it oozes quality .
Carton House ( O ’ Meara )
The O ’ Meara course has those perfect parkland assets familiar to everyone as it rolls through mature woodland . And yet the trees stay well back to give the course an unexpected spaciousness . Off the tee the big manicured fairways are hugely inviting targets , making this long course a driver ’ s delight . There are five par fives , too . The O ’ Meara is often lauded for its superb stretch of three holes down by the River Rye . The two par threes and the par five 15th squeezed in between are exceptional holes , lost amongst the trees . It is known as Amen Corner . Water is ever-present so it is little wonder they are so memorable . Home to the 2024 KPMG Women ’ s Irish Open .
“ New Forest ’ s greatest selling point is that it is both formidable and fun to play . You ’ ll certainly need your driver as fairways coast along the heavily wooded perimeter , around ponds and marshes , and over streams and bridges .”
New Forest
One of Ireland ’ s impressive new parklands ( 2006 ), New Forest has an equally impressive clubhouse ... a restored 18th century manor house . New Forest ’ s greatest selling point is that it is both formidable and fun to play . You ’ ll certainly need your driver as fairways coast along the heavily wooded perimeter , around ponds and marshes , and over streams and bridges . The biggest challenge , however , comes on the approach as green complexes are creatively shaped and heavily bunkered . New Forest is strong from start to finish and there are lodges here , too , if you want to stay and play .
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