Overview
Hogs Head Golf Club occupies a dramatic stretch of coastline on the Iveragh Peninsula, just south of the village of Waterville in County Kerry. Since its opening in July 2017, the resort has established itself as a premier destination for links golf and coastal exploration. The centerpiece is an 18-hole, par-72 course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., weaving through windswept dunes, heather-clad embankments, and the churning Finglas River.
The resort offers uninterrupted views of Ballinskelligs Bay, the Skellig Islands, and the surrounding mountains. Beyond the golf course, Hogs Head provides a full luxury experience with a 48-room Lodge, private cottages, three dining venues, a spa, and the 14km Hogs Head Loop, a walking route that showcases some of Kerry’s most rugged Atlantic scenery.
History & Development
The property was developed by New York-based entrepreneurs Bryan Marsal and Tony Alvarez, who envisioned a world-class golf destination “built by friends, for friends.” Their project reimagined the site of the former Skellig Bay Course, which closed in 2006, transforming it into a modern links layout that respects the natural topography.
The design attracted the legendary architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., who created the first course of his career in Ireland. Construction was overseen by Dublin-based firm Henry J Lyons, with interiors by Robert Rizzo. The clubhouse, Lodge, and cottages were built using locally quarried Kerry stone, slate roofs, and oak detailing to blend seamlessly into the landscape.
Golf Course
The championship layout measures 7,140 yards from the back tees and combines classic links features with signature Irish touches. The course is known for its firm fescues, deep bunkers, and strategic placement that rewards accuracy over power.
Course Highlights
- The 6th Hole: Features a “Biarritz” green, a narrow, elevated putting surface inspired by the famous hole in France, demanding precise approach shots.
- The 13th Hole: Known as “Kathleen’s Choice,” this hole offers a dual-green complex with two distinct putting surfaces and separate vistas, allowing players to choose their risk level.
- Coastal Views: Several holes run parallel to the Atlantic, with the Skellig Islands visible on clear days, adding a dramatic backdrop to every round.
Caddie Service & Access
Hogs Head operates a mandatory caddie system, ensuring players receive local knowledge of the course conditions. Rates are €100 for a single bag and €140 for a double bag, with gratuity included.
While the club maintains 550 members, 20% of tee times are allocated to the public. Visitors can book a round without a membership, though advance booking is essential, particularly during the summer months.
Facilities & Practice Areas
The clubhouse houses a fully stocked pro shop and comprehensive practice facilities. A covered driving range protects players from the Atlantic wind, while a dedicated short-game area and state-of-the-art putting green allow for fine-tuning.
A swing-analysis suite is available for lessons with PGA-qualified professionals, catering to beginners and seasoned players alike. The club also offers a range of Irish golf memorabilia and apparel in the shop.
Accommodation
The Lodge
The Lodge is a sleek, S-shaped building featuring 48 guest rooms and two owner suites, one named after Robert Trent Jones Jr. The design emphasizes natural light, with panoramic windows framing views of Lough Currane and the surrounding mountains. Rooms are appointed with contemporary furnishings and luxury amenities.
Private Cottages
For larger groups or families, five four-bedroom cottages provide a “home-away-from-home” experience. Each cottage features en-suite bedrooms, a private fire-pit, a spacious living area, and a full kitchen, allowing guests to enjoy the privacy of their own accommodation while having full access to club facilities.
Dining & Leisure
Restaurants & Bars
- Lough Currane Bar & Restaurant: Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the lake and rolling greens. The menu blends local Irish seafood with contemporary European flavours, making it a popular spot for post-round dining.
- McCarthy’s Bar: A lively venue in the clubhouse offering whiskey, cocktails, cigars, and hearty Irish fare. The bar sits with views of the 18th hole, providing a relaxed atmosphere to watch the final hole play out.
- Private Dining Room & Wine Cellar: An intimate space for wine tastings and special occasions, stocked with a curated selection of Irish and international labels.
Gail’s Spa
The resort’s spa features indoor and outdoor relaxation areas, a dry sauna, steam room, hot tub, and neck massager. A fully equipped Technogym fitness centre is also available for guests. Family packages, including parent-child massages, are offered for those travelling with children.
Hogs Head Loop Walk
For non-golfers or visitors looking to explore the coastline, the Hogs Head Loop is a 14km walking route that departs from Waterville village. The moderate walk takes approximately 4 to 6 hours and follows quiet back roads and coastal paths.
Walk Highlights
- Loher Stone Fort: An early 9th-century dry-stone fort with walls up to 3m high, offering insights into early Irish chieftainship.
- Coastal Lookouts: The trail provides panoramic views over Ballinskelligs Bay, Bolus Head, the Skelligs, Derrynane Bay, and Lambs Head.
- Derrynane National Park: The loop weaves through this protected area, showcasing native flora and sweeping sea vistas.
The Hogs Head Loop forms part of the larger Kerry Way, allowing walkers to join or leave the national trail at this point. The route includes uneven terrain and modest ascents, with a peak elevation of 138m and a total climb of 380m.
Practical Information
Getting There Hogs Head is located 5km south of Waterville village on the N70 Ring of Kerry road. The nearest airport is Kerry Airport (KIR), approximately 30km away, with shuttle services and car-hire options available. Private golf-transport services operate from major Irish cities and the airport.
Booking Tee times, accommodation, and spa appointments should be booked directly via the club’s website, which offers a live-map view of the course and a virtual tour of the Lodge.
Accessibility The main clubhouse, restaurant areas, and the Lodge are wheelchair-accessible. The golf course itself is a walking-only layout. The Hogs Head Loop includes uneven terrain and is best suited for walkers with moderate fitness levels.
Season The course is playable year-round. The most popular months are May through September, when daylight hours are longest and Atlantic breezes are milder. Winter months can bring challenging conditions but offer a unique, rugged golfing experience.
Nearby Attractions After a round or walk, visitors can explore the historic stone forts along the loop, visit the nearby town of Cahersiveen for its 16th-century castles, or embark on a boat trip to the Skellig Islands. The Gap of Dunloe, a spectacular glacial valley, is also a short drive away and makes an excellent addition to a day-trip itinerary in County Kerry.
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