Rosapenna (Sandy Hills)

• Location: Carrickart, Co. Donegal, Ireland
• Open: 2003
• Designer: Pat Ruddy
• Major Course Updates: Beau Welling
• Events Hosted: N/A
• Key Rankings: 12th best golf course in Ireland, Top 100 Golf Courses (2022)

 
While classic Irish links generally play at the bottom of valleys below the towering dunes, Irishman Pat Ruddy decided to mix things up, routing holes directly through the middle of the dunes at Sandy Hills in a rather unconventional way. Regardless helps Sandy Hills stand out, especially in contrast to Old Tom Morris’ golf course at Rosapenna, and the new Tom Doak golf course. The chance to play through, over, and around dunes in a way unseen is perhaps the best reason to see Sandy Hills, but there is enough here to charm those who visit.