Fota Island is home to no less than three top quality championship courses, and as such is one of the best golfing venues in Ireland.
Deerpark Course
The renowned Fota Island Golf Club is set amidst the fantastic scenery of the estate itself. While golf on the site dates back to the 1800s, it was not until Christy O’Connor Jr. and Peter McEvoy laid out their new Deerpark course in 1993, that Fota Island became a serious golfing destination. Since its inception, the championship course has played host to the Irish Open in 2001 and 2002, and has established a reputation as one of Ireland’s best.
Belvelly Course
The Belvelly’s par-72 layout includes the new nine holes added by Jeff Howes in recent times, and is a formidable test at 7,121 yards from the back markers. Interesting features have been worked into the design, not least on the signature 16th hole, where visiting golfers face the challenge of firing their approach shot over an old quarry to a small target.
Barryscourt Course
The par-73 Barryscourt Course also takes in the new nine holes, and is the latest addition to Fota Island’s impressive portfolio of golf. The course is a monster from the back tees, but the characteristic slope of the greens will also undoubtedly challenge the putting of every visitor. The highlight of Fota’s latest course is the redesigned 8th, which features an array of hazards to be safely negotiated.