Hogs Head Golf Club
Waterville Co. Kerry Ireland
Tasked with creating a new course in golf-rich Ireland, Robert Trent Jones Jr. and his team weren’t likely to hold anything back. And given a magnificent piece of property along the cliff-borne shoreline of southwestern County Kerry, they matched the surroundings by forging something bold and boisterous, combining the finest traditions of Irish links with a healthy dash of modern individuality.
Hogs Head Golf Club Overview
Hogs Head Golf Club (named after a marine bearing point on the Ballinskelligs Bay)—opened in mid-2017 and Robert Trent Jones II’s first design in the Emerald Isle—is built on headlands surrounded by farmland, with glorious views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the tallest mountains in the country (Macgillicuddy’s Reeks), while also incorporating Finglas River, famous for salmon and trout. As part of the transformation of the landscape (including a small piece of an existing golf course), soil and rocks were relocated, the surface capped with sand, and three types of indigenous fescue grass planted. Like all classic links, Hogs Head plays fast and firm.
Hogs Head Golf Club Course Features
But given the vagaries of Irish weather, the course also must be accommodating, accepting shots that come down from high as well as those that run in fast and low. With the wind ever present and the sea so close, the fairways are cut wide and the greens large, although both feature ample undulations. In fact, the greens at Hogs Head were given special attention, with hole xxx boasting a Biarritz-style putting surface, holes 11 and 14 sharing a huge double green in the spirit of St. Andrews, and number 13 employing two greens for use on different days.
Scenic Journey
Moving through a variety of terrains, including cliff side holes that overlook the Ballinskelligs Bay, Hogs Head begins and ends along the river, while the middle features a long stretch along 100-foot-tall coastal bluffs. There are five par-threes, varying in length and strategy and bringing alternately the river, the cliffs, and the sea into play. And there’s always the weather, which can change in an instant and demands constant attention if one is to choose the right club and strike the proper shot.
Ultimate Golf Destination
Beauty and challenge, challenge and beauty. Hogs Head brings golf’s most endearing traits together in one place. And like the game itself, it never disappoints. This course truly lives up to the motto set forward by it's owners Bryan Marsal and Tony Alvarez, "Built by Friends, for Friends, for Fun". This is the ultimate golf destination for your next trip.
Embracing the warmth and tradition of its Kerry, Ireland heritage, the accommodations at Hogs Head Golf Club seamlessly blend luxurious New World comfort with Old World charm and sophistication. Hogs Head Golf Club offers stay options at the Lodge and Cottages.
Hogs Head Golf Club presents three exquisite dining experiences on the property. The Lough Currane Bar and Restaurant and the Private Dining Room & Wine Cellar, both situated in the Lodge, and McCarthy’s Bar, located in the Clubhouse.
Gail’s Spa provides an extensive array of treatments for both men and women, each meticulously tailored to meet your individual needs. The spa features four treatment rooms, a hair salon, indoor and outdoor relaxation areas, separate male and female thermal suites (including a dry sauna, wet steam room, hot tub, neck massager, and heated loungers), and locker rooms with showers. Additionally, our fully equipped fitness center boasts Technogym cardiovascular equipment, a Technogym weight trainer, TRX equipment, and free weights, with cardio options including two treadmills, an elliptical, and a spin bike.
From the pristine fairways to the luxurious accommodations and rejuvenating spa treatments, Hogs Head Golf Club offers an unparalleled experience that captures the essence of Irish charm and world-class amenities, making it the perfect destination for your next unforgettable golf getaway.