8.7

Carne Golf Links (Wild Atlantic Dunes)

ARCHITECTS

Course info

ACCESS
Public
EST.
1995
GRASS
Fescue
SEASON
April–October
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
90
?
CADDIES
Unknown
Type
Links
Unknown
Par
72
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
8.5
City
Belmullet

Score

8.7
Design
40%
9.2
Conditions
25%
8.0
Desirability
15%
7.9
Scenery
10%
9.6
Fun
5%
8.3
Uniqueness
5%
9.3

Difficulty

Overall
Hard

Slope 144

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 8.5

7
15

Walkability Hard

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Medium

Low
Extreme

Average Wind High

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
65
$
90
$
115
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

Carne boasts over 1,000 acres of dunes, making it one of the most expansive and naturally dramatic links landscapes in Europe.

About

Carne Golf Links (Wild Atlantic Dunes) is a dramatic, remote links course carved through some of the highest dunes found in golf, overlooking the Atlantic on Ireland’s west coast. Designed by Eddie Hackett, it showcases natural features and stunning coastal views in its challenging layout, providing a memorable test for any golfer.

Caddie Tip

Bring plenty of golf balls and prepare for unpredictable winds. Club selection is hugely affected by both elevation changes and winds off Blacksod Bay—aim to play low, controlled shots and focus your strategy on avoiding deep pot bunkers set within the towering dunes.

The Main Challenge

The Wild Atlantic Dunes layout is unforgiving due to relentless elevation changes, narrow fairways threading steep dunes, and winds coming in off the Atlantic. Confident ball striking and creative shot-making are required to avoid the deep pot bunkers and hidden greens, making every round a true test of skill.

The Good

Golfers rave about the pure, natural links experience, especially the adventure of navigating the wild, enormous dunes paired with breathtaking Atlantic views from nearly every hole. The combination of isolation and scenery makes each round feel like a once-in-a-lifetime journey.

The Not So Good

Some visitors report that the rugged terrain and remote location make the course physically demanding and slow for walking. Weather can be unpredictable, with frequent wind and rain, and basic facilities may leave comfort-seeking golfers wishing for a more modern clubhouse.

Signature Hole:

#

18

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Could not find info

Clubhouse

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The clubhouse offers scenic views, a friendly pro shop, and a cozy café/bar serving local fare. While not luxurious, it provides all essentials including changing facilities and a welcoming staff—reflecting the course’s community roots.

Practice Facilities

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A full driving range and putting green are available, though basic compared to prestigious resorts. The practice area sits within the dunes, allowing golfers to warm up on genuine links turf, but limited in terms of short game targets.

Dress Code:

Standard

No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.

Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.

Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.

Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.

Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.

Ireland