XXXX
Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge, Northern Ireland.
TOURISM IN ULSTER
The northern-most province of Ulster boasts a
huge selection of the finest golf courses to be
found… not just on the island of Ireland, but also
the world. Straddling two countries, Ulster offers
a wide variety of activities and sights. Belfast,
the island’s second largest city, has a rich history
and culture, being the location of Harland and
Wolff shipbuilders (of Titanic fame), the stunning
City Hall, and a vibrant nightlife. The city offers
over 20 highly ranked-courses within a short
driving distance, and both Malone and Belvoir
Park are tucked away in its suburbs.
The Northern Irish coastline, spanning over
200km, is drenched in stunning natural beauty,
with many untouched beaches - 10 of which
have received the UK-wide Seaside Award. Also
on this coastline lies the Giant’s Causeway, in
Co. Antrim. This World Heritage Site is not to
be missed and its hexagonal basalt columns
have been attracting visitors for years. Easily
accessible from Belfast is Lough Neagh, the
largest freshwater lake in the UK or Ireland. It
is steeped in mystery and folklore, which could
even describe the golf courses of Royal Portush
122
and Portstewart, which plays over dunes known
as God’s Own Country.
Derry city, on the River Foyle, is the second
largest city in Northern Ireland. Famous for its
walled city and rich history, it has produced
some of Ireland’s most famous writers, such as
the poet Seamus Heaney, and the playwright
Brian Friel. Donegal, the northernmost
county in the Republic, has a remote and
rugged landscape, with national parks and
a breathtaking coast. Malin Head, the most
northerly point on the island, is located on the
remote Inishowen Peninsula. It just happens to
be in the same vicinity as the renowned courses
of Ballyliffin and North West, which celebrated
its 125th anniversary in 2016.
Co. Donegal offers plenty of the island’s best
links courses, such as the spectacular Donegal
Golf Club, Narin and Portnoo, Rosapenna, and
the nine hole gem of Cruit Island. The county
promises some of the best surfing in the world,
too, with Bundoran gaining a reputation as one
of the world’s best locations.