DG IRELAND 2021 – New Forest Golf Club
Edited by Kevin Markham
One of Ireland’s impressive new parklands (2006), New Forest has an equally impressive clubhouse… a restored 18th century manor house.
The drive up to it sets the tone as you see the ease with which the course flows over the parkland estate. One of New Forest’s great advantages is that it is both formidable and fun to play.
You’ll certainly need your driver as fairways coast along the heavily wooded perimeter, around ponds and marshes, and over streams and bridges.
The biggest challenge, however, comes on the approach as green complexes are creatively shaped and heavily bunkered. Many holes are noteworthy – the stretch from the 2nd to the 6th is certainly an appetising start – but New Forest is strong from start to finish. There are lodges here, too, if you want to stay and play.
www.newforest.ie
Favourite Hole: The par four 18th is a lovely finishing hole with swagger and grace. It rises ever so slightly, slipping between bunkers to a green in front of the manor house.
What’s in the Bag? You’ll definitely want to be strong off the tee… so pick the right tee box.