The European Golf Club

About the club

The site for the European Club, in the eastern part of the country just north of Arklow, was discovered by its designer, native architect Pat Ruddy, when he was searching the coast of Ireland for golf-worthy terrain. The club is now owned and operated by the Ruddy family (one is reminded of Donald Ross's association with Pinehurst). This is classic oceanside golf: several holes stretch beside the surf, and others are laid out amid the high shore grass; be careful to stay out of the nasty brush in the rough. Indeed, there are but a couple holes from which the Irish Sea cannot be glimpsed. Each hole presents its own unique challenges, which range from the aforementioned rough to copious pot bunkers as well as some water hazards. The European has subtleties that keep players coming back. There are few members, though the course is open to visitors who make arrangements in advance.