Atlantic Coast Challenge Day 2 - Carne Links

Views back up the fairway over the 8th green at Carne.

No time (or energy) to tell you much about Day 2 of the Atlantic Coast Challenge, at Carne, in Belmullet.

Suffice to say we enjoyed a typical Irish day of rain, wind and sunshine... often at the same time. I love this course, and why wouldn't you love something this big and raw and natural. Look at the photos and you'll get a glimpse of what it is all about.

Yes, the greens aren't as pristine as Rosses Point yesterday, but Carne's ethos

Rosses Point - Co. Sligo's Open Week

The par three 4th has wicked fall-offs everywhere but
the back.

It's not always easy to play the best courses in Ireland - especially when they're links and they're so populated with American links enthusiasts. But, every now and again (year after year in this case), you get an Open Week that makes it possible... and makes the journey to  a distant town an essential part of your summer's golf. And when you throw in the €20-€30 green fee, you'd be mad not to pay a visit to Sligo town and the brilliance that is Rosses Point.

Sligo Hotel & Golf Break - Rosses Point & the Radisson Blu

Rosses Point 10th hole, Benbulben beyond.

If you've been looking for a last minute deal, a quick Irish golfing getaway, then here's a bargain for the month of March. 

Why is it a bargain? 

Because it's 4 star accommodation and 5 star golf for €99.

Thanks to My Golf Society for putting me on to this one.

Ireland's Top Ten Hidden Golf Courses - No. 2 (Links)

Approach to the 5th green, a saucer shaped affair.

For the number two links in this Top Ten of Ireland's Fairways Less Travelled we're staying in the North West. This stretch of coastline promises the best value for money when it come to links golf and I would argue that point for days with anyone who disagrees. 

Strandhill is the Number 2 Links. Win a fourball for the course at the end of this blog.