Narin & Portnoo Links is a par 73 championship links on a dramatic stretch of County Donegal's north west coast, with sweeping views across Gweebara Bay and the Atlantic beyond. If you like your golf raw, windy and properly coastal, you're in the right place. This is classic Donegal links golf, routed through towering dunes and natural linksland, with plenty of moments where you'll pause on the fairway just to take the scenery in.
The variety is the real strength. There are short par threes that demand precise flight and distance control, plus long, exposed par fours where the wind makes the decision for you. The routing alternates between holes that flirt with the coastline and others that weave inland through the dune system, so you rarely get the same look twice. Local knowledge, particularly around wind direction and how the ball bounces on firm turf, pays dividends here.
It's also a proper links test underfoot: firm fairways, lively bounces, thick rough and greens that reward the right side of the hole. The par 73 gives you a couple of chances to score if you play smart, but anything loose can quickly turn into a scramble. In my opinion, it's one of those Donegal rounds that feels remote, unspoilt and brilliantly memorable, especially on a clear day when the views are as good as it gets.
Include Narin & Portnoo on your next Ireland golf break and you'll get a true taste of north west links golf, without the crowds.
Who is this for?
Golfers who want a traditional Donegal links day out, dramatic scenery and a course that asks you to think your way round.
Who is it best for?
Mid to low handicappers will enjoy the challenge most, but any golfer who can keep it in play and embrace the wind will have a great time, especially from the right tees.
