Going for Golf

Seapoint

Next up, and virtually a straight nine-iron away, is Seapoint, located near the delightfully named town of Termonfeckin (try saying that after a few pints). Another magnificent links course, this one can be testing to the point of being gnarly, but only in a good way. A par-72 course, it covers 7,150 yards set among 260 acres of links that mix dunes and greenery, all waiting to devour any stray shots from the tee and beyond.

The Mourne Mountains are in view at some points, while sweeping scenery of the back nine, which takes you down towards the coast, is matched by the range of clubs needed to bring it under control. Water is a factor on holes four and five, with the latter acknowledged as the hardest hole on the course. Once you negotiate it and the rest of the front nine you’re heading for home, and what a journey it is. The last three holes are all flanked by the shore down the right, with the par-three 17th offering up glorious scenery.

Designed by Des Smyth and Declan Brannigan and open since 1993, the club has a growing pedigree. Take it seriously, but enjoy.