Portsalon Golf Club
Portsalon Golf Club was founded in 1891 and was a founder member of the Golf Union of Ireland, the oldest golfing union in the world.
Established
Portsalon Golf club was founded by Colonel B.J Barton in 1891. Colonel Barton established the Portsalon hotel and golf links and was very forward thinking in Portsalon becoming one of the founder member of the Golfing Union of Ireland, the oldest golf union in the world.
Course Layout
Par: 72 Yardage: Approximately 6,850 yards (from the back tees) Portsalon Golf Club offers a mix of tight fairways, challenging bunkers, and scenic views that make it a memorable experience for golfers. It blends traditional links course design with the natural beauty of the Donegal coastline. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the layout provides a fair but demanding test of golfing skill. Signature Holes: Hole 2 (Par 3): This hole offers beautiful views but requires a well-executed shot to avoid the surrounding bunkers. Hole 17 (Par 3): One of the most photographed holes on the course, offering a dramatic and scenic backdrop.
Location & Conditions
As a links course, Portsalon Golf Club's conditions are heavily influenced by its coastal location. Here’s what you can expect: 1. Coastal Winds: Wind: Being near the Atlantic Ocean, the winds are often a significant factor in play. Depending on the direction and strength, the wind can change the course’s difficulty dramatically. Some days may be calm, while others may require more club adjustments and stronger course management. 2. Climate: Temperature: County Donegal experiences a temperate maritime climate, with cool, mild winters and relatively mild summers. This means that temperatures are usually moderate: Winter: Average temperatures range from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Summer: Average temperatures hover around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), with occasional warmer days.
Course Overview
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Portsalon Golf Club is located on the beautiful northwest coast of County Donegal, Ireland. It is nestled in the scenic area of Portsalon, which is part of the Fanad Peninsula, renowned for its natural beauty, rugged coastline, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Key Geographic Features:
Proximity to the Sea: The golf course is set along the Atlantic coast, with many holes offering stunning views of Mulroy Bay and the surrounding hills. Its position on the coast means that coastal winds are a key factor in how the course plays.
Access and Nearby Areas:
Distance to major towns: Portsalon is approximately 20-25 miles from Letterkenny, the largest town in County Donegal, and about 40 minutes’ drive from Derry City. It’s also around 2.5 hours by car from Belfast.
Portsalon Golf Club’s design is rooted in a rich golfing history, and its layout has evolved over time. While the initial design was created by the famous golf architect Old Tom Morris, the course has also benefited from several modern updates to ensure it remains a top-tier destination for golfers.