YOU’RE ONLY AS good as your last game, but whether good, average or putting-needs-work, there’s nothing like getting onto the fairway and into the fresh air.

Some players are looking to stretch their legs, some secretly want to go pro, but whatever your handicap is, we’ve found some key dates for your calendar to get you practising your swing.

Social Media Open, 21-24 April

Ballybunion Old

Taking place across several of Kerry’s most picturesque and competitive golf courses, this year’s social media open is perfect for a corporate retreat, with discounted prices for group bookings. The four-day event will take place across Ballybunion Old, Tralee Golf Links, Dooks Golf Links, and Dingle Golf Links. Combining the fresh Atlantic air, pristine fairways and a location that lends itself to plenty of merriment once the golfing is done, the Social Media Open is the perfect excuse for a springtime break.

The format of the tournament is:

• Par 4 & Par 5 holes: Both players tee off and pick one tee shot, after which both players play their own ball. The first player to play will be the player whose tee shot is chosen (Play as Lie depending on the Local Rules on the day), the 2nd player may then place their ball within a scorecard not nearer the hole.
• On par 3 holes, both players play their own ball for the duration of the hole.
• Scoring: Team of 2 with both scores on holes 9 & 18 and 1 score to count on the other holes each (3/4 Handicaps apply).

All packages include four rounds of golf, a goody Bag and a final day dinner for those on the four/five-night Play & Stay packages.

Links Challenge 2026, 15-17 July 

Scheduled for when the sun is most likely to be shining, this year’s Links Challenge will be one to remember. Now in its fourteenth year, the three-day pairs event will take place across three courses on the Wild Atlantic Way. As it’s a pairs event, you might want to bring your best golfing buddy — but it’s fine to ride solo, too.

Day one will take place at Belmullet and Carne Golf Links’ Hackett Course, a panoramic golf course that feels like you’re trying out your long game at the edge of the world.

Day two will take place on the Wild Atlantic Dunes Course in Carne, Co Sligo, and the day will end with a barbecue to make sure you’re well fed for the final day at Enniscrone Golf Links. 

Accommodation in Belmullet will be available at The Broadhaven Bay Hotel, which is close to Carne Golf Links on Tuesday and Wednesday. Accommodation will also be available at the Great National Hotel in Ballina from Thursday onwards, which is a short drive from the Enniscrone course.

• For par 4 and par 5: Both players tee off and pick one tee shot. From this spot, both players then play their own ball from there. The first player to play will be the player whose tee shot is chosen (play as Lie depending on the Local Rules on the day), the 2nd player may then place their ball within a scorecard not nearer the hole.
• Par 3s: Both players play their own ball for the duration of the hole. Team of 2 with both scores on holes 9 & 18, and one score to count on the other holes each (3/4 handicaps apply).

To learn more about price packages, visit Experience Ireland Golf and Travel online today.