Get in the swing on Ireland’s top golf courses and walk in the footsteps of Rory McIlroy

STANDING back on the towering seventh tee of The Faldo Course at Lough Erne admiring the stunning views over the Fermanagh Lakeland can have a calming influence.

But a glimpse at the adjacent plaque pointing out that Rory McIlroy once drove the green on the 396-yard par four — aptly named Devenish Drop — and the blood soon starts pumping as you reach for the driver.

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I knocked my effort safely onto the fairway in the valley below and although it didn’t threaten the Northern Irishman’s distance or accuracy, in truth I was just happy it was still in view as I picked up my bag and marched off down the hill.

Water comes into play on 11 of the 18 holes on the course, designed by the six-time major winner and webbed feet would certainly have come in handy at points.

The course wraps its way around the luxury five-star hotel, spa and popular wedding venue located just outside Enniskillen in the middle of upper and lower Lough Erne.

Our round saw us tee off early and, with the place to ourselves, we became engrossed in this 7,000-yard course right from the intriguing first few holes along the water’s edge and into thick woodland with the morning sun fighting its way through the treetops high above.

Greens in pristine condition and holes guarded by deep and steep bunkers before you even hit the ‘Faldo Turn’ 16th, which provides magnificent panoramic views back across the estate.

No wonder it’s a haven for golfers and tourists who want to enjoy top-class courses and award-winning hospitality.

Everyone knows the 19th hole is as important as any. A creamy cold pint of the black stuff in the Blaney Bar was just reward after a true test of the game.

We were treated to a warm chat with the resort’s Culinary Director Noel McMeel who worked his magic with some tasty creations from local produce — including rhubarb from his own backyard — washed down by another refreshing Guinness.

His full talents were on display in the acclaimed Catalina Restaurant on the second night of our stay, with fine dining and supreme levels of service that are a reflection of the rapidly growing reputation this place is garnering.

Breakfast was also a comprehensive affair with plenty to fuel those heading for a day on the course. A mention must also go to the Loughside Bar and Grill, which is the perfect spot to relax for lunch afterwards and talk about the nailed drives, solid irons and perfect putts from a morning well spent.

It’s no surprise to hear Lough Erne mentioned by enthusiasts alongside more well-known Irish venues like Druids Glen, Adare Manor and The K-Club.

As you turn off the main road and drive into the resort you pass Castle Hume, the other fantastic course located on the site.

There are more unique challenges from that – another parkland course with a variety of contoured greens and also maintained to a very high standard.

A lovely al fresco terrace on the clubhouse overlooking the last green provides a great gallery to reflect and share stories with a refreshment and watch others return from their expeditions.

Of course, dry land is the best place to be if you are putting together a good scorecard.

But in an area of ​​such sprawling wetland there are some other things to do ON the water rather than in it.

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A short boat trip (ernewatertaxi.com) from the public jetty — situated around a ten minute walk from the hotel reception — lets you get the wind in your hair. Take a spin on Lough Erne and visit Devenish Island itself.

As Brian our skipper moored up at the jetty I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of activity here around what looked like the setting for an episode of Father Ted.

However, Devenish is one of Ireland’s most important monastic sites and has an eye-catching Round Tower rising to 81ft. If even half of Brian’s myths and legends — interspersed with the odd fact for good measure — were true then this place really deserves a visit.

Although don’t let him talk you into spinning around inside the ruins with your eyes shut and making wishes, as it did attract some weird looks from the other tourists and indeed a rye smile from Brian himself.

It was then engines on and up the lough to the heart of Enniskillen itself for a quick visit and, after a few more tales of yore, we were returned safely to dry land at the Lough Erne jetty.

Enniskillen is around an hour and a half’s drive from Belfast Airport, and not too far off the beaten track, so you can enjoy some of the other golf courses along the way.

We had the pleasure of calling in to play Dungannon Golf Club — the Home of Darren Clarke. A flat and engaging opening nine holes which then increases in difficulty on the back nine with a more physical test.

The troublesome par three 9th hole — designed by Clarke himself — features a tee shot which sees you trying to reach a green that is fully protected by a pond in front. It has a great reputation and is well worth the visit.

Elsewhere, if you are looking for a relaxed round in beautiful surroundings alongside lovely accommodation and hospitality, then the Hilton Templepatrick Hotel and Golf Club should also be on your list.

This resort on the Castle Upton Estate, just a short drive from the airport, is undergoing a multi-million pound redevelopment which will build upon some fantastic existing facilities.

It will take on the Hilton’s DoubleTree brand and become the Kingfisher Country Estate.

The rooms have already been given a modern makeover, with the owners planning more enhancements as the project is ramped up.

It benefits from a splendid golf course which is well looked after.
The rough is unforgiving, mind you, but it is a great test and not too out of the way if you are in the Belfast area.

We sadly only had time to play the back nine during our whirlwind stop.

But it gave us a great flavor for the place and, with the exciting plans for the future, we’ll hopefully return again to play the rest and take advantage of all the resort has to offer.

And who knows, maybe with a bit more practice I can get my name on a plaque somewhere.

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