K Club - South Course

A bold, modern parkland layout designed for drama. The South Course is more adventurous than its older sibling – target golf with serious bite.

Slope Rating

138

Par

72

Yardage

7,277

The Palmer South Course at The K Club is a striking contrast to the traditional elegance of the North Course. Opened in 2003 and also designed by Arnold Palmer, it’s a thrilling, risk-reward layout with an aggressive modern edge. Expect dramatic elevation changes, massive bunkers, and water hazards lurking everywhere. The fairways are generous, but the trouble comes at the greens – many of which are protected by steep run-offs, water, or multi-tiered putting surfaces. The back nine is particularly exciting, with the par-5 11th and the par-3 17th demanding precise shotmaking. While it lacks the Ryder Cup history of the North, many find the South more fun and dynamic. It’s a perfect complement – bold, creative, and demanding in a different way. Conditioning is exceptional, and pace of play is excellent thanks to the spacious routing. The South Course is one of Ireland’s most underrated tests, ideal for players who enjoy shaping shots and managing risk. Play it smart and it’s rewarding. Play it bold and it can bite.

Designer

Arnold Palmer

Opened

2003

Tee time availability

Good

Special information

Quieter than the North Course and often overlooked – a hidden gem for those seeking variety and challenge

Tiger’s best round

Rory’s best round

Mens course record

64 – Club competition

Ladies course record

Round duration

4 hours 30 minutes

Caddy guide

Optional – useful for course strategy, but clear yardage guides are available

Buggies

Available and often recommended – hilly terrain and long transitions

Rewarding if you control spin and placement. Attacking pins can pay off, but only if your approach play is dialled in. Don’t underestimate the undulating greens.

A fun challenge – just avoid hero shots over water unless you’re confident. Focus on keeping the ball in play and managing approaches with care.

Playable from forward tees, but still demanding. Avoid long carries and be strategic with layups. Even if your score climbs, the experience is lively and engaging.

Green speed

10 – slick, firm, and often multi-tiered

Wind

Mild – inland setting means little wind, but elevation shifts can affect ball flight

Pace of play

Excellent – spacious layout and fewer players keep things moving

Nerves on the first tee

Minimal – wide, welcoming opening hole. More excitement than pressure

Clubhouse

Shared with the North Course – refined, relaxed, and luxurious

The 11th is a heroic par-5 with water guarding the green. The 17th is a visually intimidating par-3 over a pond to a narrow green. The 18th is a tough par-4 finisher with bunkers and a sloped fairway demanding accuracy to the end.

Inland, mild, and less prone to wind than coastal courses. Soft underfoot after rain, but plays well most of the year. Spring and early summer ideal.