Course renovations and whiskey

Portmarnock Resort in Dublin, Ireland, has completed a major renovation of its rebranded Jameson Golf Links. The two-year project resulted in significant remodels to numerous holes.

The opening of the reimagined 17th hole — previously a challenging par 3 converted to an exciting par 4 — ended the work on the links course. Formerly known as Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links, various modifications have been made to Bernhard Langer’s original 1995 design, including the elevation of many tee boxes and greens to bring the sea closer to the course and create panoramic views of north Dublin’s Velvet Strand and the famous island known locally as Ireland’s Eye.  

The work was led by Northland Real Estate Properties and the Gagliardi family, who assumed ownership of the resort in 2019. Jeff Lynch, director and senior architect at (re)GOLF, guided the work.  

The course rebrand brings to life the link between the land, the clubhouse and the famous Jameson whiskey dynasty — a family that played an important part in the introduction of the game of golf to Ireland and particularly the north Dublin coast.  

Following the opening of the penultimate hole — lengthened to a 355-yard par 4 with a tabletop green complex and new bunkering — the course now plays as a par 72, measuring 7,266 yards from the back tees.  

Despite the increased back-tee yardage, a more playable test is presented from three sets of forward tees. Enhancements to landing areas and bunkers ensure golfers of all abilities can manage and enjoy the course.  

“The feedback we are receiving from members and visiting guests about the changes made to the links over the past year or so has been fantastic,” Jameson Golf Links director of golf Paul McCanny said. “Jeff Lynch and (re)GOLF Design, DAR Golf, Aquaturf Solutions and our own Jameson Golf Links maintenance team have delivered work of the highest quality. The aim was to make the most of our spectacular dunescape whilst heightening the golfing experience. We believe Jameson Golf Links is now one of the best links golf experiences in Ireland.”  

Most of the work occurred on the final 10 holes. Both the 12th and 14th holes — previously par 4s — were redesigned as par 5s, with the raised green area on the former providing views of the famous Velvet Strand, Howth Head, Lambay and Ireland’s Eye.  

In between the new par 5s, the former par-5 13th hole is now a challenging par 4. The 15th hole also has been shortened from a par 4 to a par 3.  

Changes to the previously dogleg eighth — now transformed into a straighter par 4 following the development of a new fairway, green complex and grass pathways — allow for the movement and enlargement of the course’s irrigation lake, greatly increasing water collection capabilities and sustainability credentials.  

“We were thrilled to be selected to consult with Northland Properties and the team at Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links,” Lynch said. “The layout here was already considered to be a fair challenge for most golfers — our aim was to enhance the link between the guest and the coastal experience.  

“We endeavored to augment this natural connection at certain intervals throughout the course whilst complementing, if not adding, to the strategy of the layout. I believe we have delivered a handcrafted landscape for the golfer and the environment that all involved can be proud of.”