Carne Golf Links: Play Ireland's Wild Atlantic Dunes By Brian Weis

Carne Golf Links: Play Ireland's Wild Atlantic Dunes

Discover Mayo's Legendary Golf Course with Stunning Links Golf and Dramatic Coastal Scenery

By Brian Weis

Carne Golf Links, set amid the rugged dunes of County Mayo's wild Atlantic coastline, epitomizes authentic Irish links golf. Located near the village of Belmullet, Carne was designed by the revered Irish course architect Eddie Hackett, whose minimalist philosophy embraced nature's shaping of the land, avoiding heavy machinery to preserve the untouched character of the terrain. First opened in 1993, Carne was Hackett's final project and is often regarded as one of his finest.

In 2013, an additional nine holes, known as the Kilmore nine, were crafted by American architect Jim Engh, complementing Hackett's original eighteen and further showcasing the property's dramatic dunes, considered among the tallest in Europe. Together, these 27 holes provide golfers with a deeply rewarding and varied experience, challenging strategic play while immersing visitors in the remoteness and raw beauty of Mayo's windswept coast.

Following storm damage to the Kilmore nine, which resulted in a two-year closure, the holes reopened for the 2019 season. Two years later, Carne proudly hosted the Irish PGA Championship, utilizing the newly named Wild Atlantic Dunes layout-an exciting 18-hole routing combining the Kilmore nine with the back nine of Hackett's original course.

Today, visitors to Carne Golf Links have a uniquely dynamic golfing experience: the club alternates daily between layouts, meaning golfers can play either Hackett's classic original 18 or the acclaimed Wild Atlantic Dunes combination. Each routing highlights Carne's distinctive personality, weaving through towering sandhills and undulating fairways sculpted by centuries of relentless Atlantic winds. Signature holes include the par-4 11th, a narrow fairway protected by steep dunes, and the dramatic par-3 16th, where a small, elusive green demands precision amid coastal gusts.

Known for its welcoming spirit and sense of adventure, Carne Golf Links retains a natural charm untouched by commercialism, capturing the true spirit of Irish golf as it once was-remote, unspoiled, and unforgettable.

Getting Here: The Journey to Carne Golf Links

Most golf travelers visiting Carne Golf Links fly into Dublin Airport, embarking on a scenic yet challenging journey across Ireland's countryside. The route from Dublin to Belmullet winds through narrow, twisty roads that hug the rugged landscapes of the West Coast-definitely not for the faint of heart, but absolutely worth the adventure.

To make your trip even more memorable, pair Carne with rounds at other celebrated northwest courses such as Enniscrone, County Sligo (Rosses Point), Strand Hill Golf Links and experience some of the best links golf Ireland has to offer.

For a hassle-free experience, it's recommended to arrange your golf tee times, lodging, and transportation through the trusted tour operator, Links of Ireland, who specialize in curating authentic and seamless Irish golf vacations.

More Information
Carne Golf Links
Links of Ireland

Revised: 04/28/2025 - Article Viewed 148 Times - View Course Profile

About: Brian Weis

While Brian Weis has made a name for himself in the golf world, he also appreciates the finer things in life—like a world-class spa treatment after a grueling 18 holes (or even after a casual round where the only thing working hard was his golf cart). A self-proclaimed "golfer who enjoys relaxation more than practice," Brian has developed a deep appreciation for massages that unknot his questionable swing mechanics, saunas that sweat out a few too many post-round drinks, and infinity pools with views as stunning as a well-manicured par 3.

Brian’s spa journey began as a reluctant tag-along to couples' massages and resort spa packages but quickly evolved into a full-fledged appreciation for hot stone therapy, deep-tissue recovery, and the occasional seaweed wrap (don’t knock it till you try it). Now, he seeks out the best spa retreats, thermal baths, and relaxation havens wherever his travels take him—whether it's a luxury golf resort with a five-star spa or a hidden wellness gem perfect for unwinding in style.

On SpaTrips.com, Brian shares his experiences, reviews, and insider tips on the best places to soothe sore muscles, indulge in rejuvenating treatments, and find true relaxation—whether you're a hardcore golfer in need of recovery or just someone looking for the ultimate escape. After all, what’s the point of a bucket list golf trip if you can’t top it off with an expert massage, a hot soak, and maybe even a ridiculously plush robe"