|
 The
Dufferin is now recognised as one of Ireland's great inland golfing
experiences by even the most prosaic visiting golfer.
The 6,559 yard long Dufferin course quickly exposes a golfer's
skill or his limitations. Masses of gorse, bracken and strategically
placed trees flank every hole, demanding extreme accuracy and
punishing the slightest error. The undulating countryside contributes
much to an awareness of space and the fairways are moisture absorbing
offering positive playable lies.
Although water comes into play at only one hole, a visitor's concentration
is always distracted by the panoramic seascape from the championship
course's elevated first tee. Laid out in beautiful undulating
countryside, high above the sprawling residential plain of North
Down, this course offers compelling coastal views. The Dufferin's
prevailing north-east wind sweeps in across Belfast Lough and
from the Antrim Coast the mountains of Scotland are clearly visible.
The shorter Ava is a complete contrast. A mere 5755 yards, and
often mistakenly called "the wee course".
William
R. Robinson's original second nine, south of the clubhouse, was
retained and additional holes added with as little disturbance
as possible to the natural landscape. It demands extreme accuracy
off the tee and is a true examination of a player's game. Narrow
fairways, established trees, gorse, heather, rock close to the
surface and all the other hazards of an unspoilt natural landscape
make it a tough and varied course, presenting a challenge of subtlety
rather than length..
The
Ava Course is a perfect partner to its sister course exemplified
by “Tower Gap”, the 524 yard par 5 second hole. Rated
one of the best holes in Ireland, this tree lined masterpiece
ensures accuracy is paramount for both the drive and second shots.
A wonderfully mature course, it is a great blend of pleasure,
skill and challenge set in stunning woodland surroundings.
The
more sheltered Ava course overlooks Strangford Lough and its 365
islands in the south, with equally engrossing panoramic views
over rich agricultural farmland to the Mourne Mountains, where
Slieve Donard is a majestic backdrop to the famed Royal County
Down links.
The
Ava's user friendly fairways make it extremely popular with members
and visitors alike.
Dufferin
|
