Fota Island Golf Club
Fota Island
Set within 780 acres of magnificent parkland in County Cork, Fota Island Golf Club is one of Ireland's most prestigious championship golfing destinations. Surrounded by ancient woodland, picturesque lakes and beautiful countryside, this outstanding golf resort offers 27 holes arranged into three championship course configurations, providing a fantastic variety of challenges for golfers of all abilities. Located just a short drive from Cork city, Fota Island is an excellent choice for a memorable golf holiday in southern Ireland.
The flagship Deerpark Course is the resort's most famous layout, having hosted the prestigious Irish Open in 2001, 2002 and 2014. Originally designed by Irish Ryder Cup star Christy O'Connor Jr. and renowned amateur golfer Peter McEvoy, the course was later redesigned by architect Jeff Howes. This beautiful par-71 parkland layout features gently undulating fairways, mature oak trees, strategically positioned bunkers and immaculate greens, rewarding accuracy and intelligent course management throughout the round.
For golfers seeking a different challenge, the Belvelly Course offers a spectacular par-72 layout stretching over 7,100 yards from the championship tees. Combining the estate's natural woodland with challenging water hazards and carefully designed greens, Belvelly delivers a memorable round. The demanding par-four 16th is a particular highlight, requiring a precise tee shot before a challenging approach across an old quarry.
Completing the trio is the Barryscourt Course, a lengthy par-73 championship layout measuring more than 7,300 yards. With its rolling fairways, challenging bunkers and beautifully contoured greens, this course provides an excellent test of both distance and precision, particularly for more experienced golfers.
Away from the fairways, golfers can take advantage of the impressive Fota Island Golf Academy, featuring modern TrackMan technology, professional PGA coaching and excellent practice facilities. The welcoming clubhouse provides the perfect setting for a post-round drink or meal, while the adjoining five-star Fota Island Resort offers luxurious accommodation, outstanding dining and relaxing spa facilities.
At Hashtag Golf Travel, we highly recommend Fota Island Golf Club for couples, golf societies and groups seeking an exceptional parkland golf holiday in Ireland. With three contrasting championship layouts, a rich tournament history and beautiful countryside surroundings, it's a fantastic destination for combining memorable golf with luxury relaxation and the attractions of County Cork.
Cork Airport
21km
England’s best golf tour operator 2026 winner
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Time Zone:
GMT+10
Currency:
$ (Australian Dollar)
Temperature:
3°C - 24°C
Cost of a Beer:
£5.50
Cost of a 3-Course Meal:
£33
Hashtag Guide
About The Area
Fota Island is one of Ireland’s strongest golf resort destinations, perfect for golfers who want championship golf, five-star comfort and easy access to Cork. Set on its own private island in Cork Harbour, the resort offers a peaceful, wooded setting while still being close to Cork City, Cork Airport, Cobh and Midleton. Fota Island Resort describes itself as easily accessible by car and train, making it a very practical choice for UK golfers planning a short Ireland golf break.
The golf is the main reason to stay. Fota Island Resort has 27 holes across three championship layouts: Deerpark, Belvelly and Barryscourt. The resort has hosted the Irish Open three times, and the courses are known for mature oak trees, quiet parkland surroundings and year-round course conditioning. That gives golfers plenty of variety without needing to leave the resort, whether you want a relaxed few rounds or a more competitive group trip.
Away from the fairways, Fota Island adds plenty of holiday value. Fota Wildlife Park is one of Ireland’s best-known family attractions, while Fota House and Gardens, Cobh, Midleton and Cork City are all easy additions to the itinerary.
For UK golfers, Fota Island is ideal for a tailor-made Ireland golf holiday that feels easy, polished and full of variety. Hashtag Golf Travel can help plan the right hotel, tee times, transfers and Cork-area add-ons.
