Designed by Seve Ballesteros and Jeff Howes, The Heritage is very much a modern resort test rather than a traditional Irish links, and that's no bad thing if you're after a fair challenge on pristine turf. You get room off the tee in places, but it's not a free-for-all. The interest is in the angles, the hazard placement and those approaches where the green looks welcoming until you're stood over the shot.
If you like plotting your way round, you'll enjoy this. Play from the right side of the fairway and the next shot opens up. Miss it slightly and you're suddenly shaping something in, or trying to hold a green edge you weren't expecting. The greens are a proper part of the defence too, so leaving yourself the right level matters.
It's also a great shout for mixed groups. You still get a championship feel, but without the full links punishment when the weather turns. In other words, you can have a serious game and still have a laugh doing it. The conditioning is what you'd expect from a top-class resort course, and the layout rewards thoughtful course management rather than pure length or intimidation.
Who is this for? Golfers or groups seeking a high-end Irish golf break that pairs championship-standard golf with luxury resort facilities, fine dining and spa amenities. Ideal for couples, societies and mixed-ability groups who want quality golf without the severity of links conditions, plus access to top-class leisure and dining options.
Who is it best for? Mid-to-low handicappers who enjoy strategic, well-conditioned parkland golf, and groups or couples looking for a complete resort experience where non-golfers can enjoy spa treatments, dining and leisure facilities while golfers play.
Right, if your group includes a few higher handicaps, pick tees that keep everyone moving. It's much more fun when you're hitting approach shots you can actually enjoy.
Include The Heritage on your next Ireland Golf Break.
