FAITHLEGG
DG IRELAND TOP150 – 2023
Kevin Markham
The drive into the estate and down to the 18th century Faithlegg House (now the hotel) shows off several holes on this fine Patrick Merrigan-designed course.
If you drive further, to the self-catering lodges, you’ll see even more.
For a ‘resort’ course Faithlegg packs a considerable punch.
Holes weave over undulating terrain, out towards the broad swathe of the River Suir, and dense oak trees give considerable charm to the start and finish. Add in the remains of an old walled garden and the course offers plenty of character. Take a few moments on the par five 13th green, where the river provides an attractive backdrop, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings… then tee off on the 14th with the River right behind you.
Trees and lakes play their part, as do several doglegs, but Faithlegg’s greens are where much of the danger lies and you’ll be hard pushed not to three putt as you move around this elegant landscape. The back nine is considerably tougher than the front… so be prepared.
Favourite Hole
The par three 16th is swamped in tall trees and you hit down between an avenue of branches to a green sitting in deep shadow.
What’s in the Bag?
A hot putter but there’s lots of fun to be had with your driver