rosapenna golf course

There are two stories in Rosapenna; the golf and the people
As is said in these parts Rosapenna “where the water meets the Wild”. Where the Bays of Sheephaven and Mulroy converge. The wild Atlantic waves have chiselled the rugged features of Rosapenna for thousands of years, spectacular, invigorating and welcoming is how the locals describe this remote beauty.
The hands of golfing greats have shaped this links since the 1890’s. In 1891 while a guest of Lord Leitrim, Old Tom Morris took a Sunday drive to take in the Donegal scenery. Old Tom was quick to see the golfing potential along the coastline and before returning he staked out the first Rosapenna Links, incorporating wide rolling fairways and delightful natural greens that are unchanged to this very day.
A full century later a second 18 holes of links set in the dunes overlooking the Old Tom Morris masterpiece was created. Pat Ruddy designer / owner of The European in Co. Wicklow was entrusted with its design. Opened just recently each hole was caressed into life with loving artistry. What you get is mountain, ocean, sky, and dunes a living tapestry of golf.
As golf enters its third century at Rosapenna, golfers from around the world are set for an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy and study links golf at its best, the traditional and the new, 36 championship holes, in one location.
Down at the local pub rugged faced men, with a boyish twinkle in their eyes, tell stories of times past but not forgotten over a pint. This is where time can stand still for a little while, where traditional music and conversation are not lost but the main feature of entertainment still. Be careful as work never gets in the way of fun and nights can stretch for days!
Rosapenna is a links course steeped in the best traditions and offers an insight into the architectural mind of Old Tom Morris.
The original designers were none other than Old Tom Morris and later Harry Vardon with Eddie Hackett (Irelands most prolific golf designer) chosen to extend this historic course.