Hogs Head

A modern masterpiece on the Ring of Kerry. Hogs Head is dramatic, exclusive, and beautifully designed – where links tradition meets luxury resort flair.

Slope Rating

141

Par

72

Yardage

7,140

Opened in 2017, Hogs Head Golf Club is a bold new addition to Ireland’s southwest coast – perched on clifftops just outside Waterville, it brings a contemporary edge to classic links golf. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the course blends natural movement with strategic flair. The front nine plays inland alongside the Finglas River, offering tree-lined beauty and subtle elevation changes. The back nine is pure coastal drama – wide open, windy, and framed by the Atlantic. Fairways are broad, but positioning is key. The greens are large, undulating, and slick. Bunkering is dramatic and deep, and elevation changes add complexity to club selection. The finishing stretch is spectacular, especially the 16th and 17th along the clifftops. The final hole plays uphill to a perched green with ocean backdrop – a grand conclusion. While young, Hogs Head has quickly established itself as a premier destination for those seeking five-star comfort, attentive service, and a modern twist on Ireland’s links heritage. This is not a public or traditional club – it’s high-end, low-volume, and utterly polished.

Designer

Robert Trent Jones Jr.

Opened

2017

Tee time availability

Difficult

Special information

Exclusive private club with limited visitor play – best accessed through high-end itineraries or Executive Golf & Leisure packages

Tiger’s best round

Rory’s best round

Mens course record

67 – Club competition

Ladies course record

Round duration

4 hours 45 minutes

Caddy guide

Compulsory – highly trained team enhances experience, especially with wind and elevation judgment

Buggies

Not permitted – walking course

Demanding and strategic – brings out your full game. Long par-4s and sloping greens require imagination, touch, and commitment. Embrace the back nine winds.

Very playable with smart strategy. Use your caddy’s advice, avoid short-siding approaches, and enjoy the unique mix of river and cliffside holes.

Challenging but fair. Wide fairways offer forgiveness. Use forward tees and focus on smart layups. Take in the views and enjoy five-star service throughout.

Green speed

10 – fast, true, and multi-tiered

Wind

Prevailing wind from the Atlantic – strong and constant on the back nine. Inland holes more sheltered.

Pace of play

Excellent – low tee volume, expert caddies, and elite-level time management

Nerves on the first tee

Moderate – serene start with attentive service and calm surrounds. A gentle build into a dramatic experience.

Clubhouse

Bespoke luxury lodge-style clubhouse – elegant, exclusive, and detail-driven

The 16th is a jaw-dropping par-4 along the cliffs, exposed to wind and framed by the ocean. The 17th is a stunning short par-3 over a sea chasm, and the 18th is a sweeping uphill par-5 that finishes in full view of the clubhouse and Atlantic beyond.

Coastal and exposed – frequent wind and ocean air, with occasional fog or showers. Generally milder than western links, but always bring layers. Summer is the best time for firm turf and dramatic light.