Carne Golf Links: Wild Atlantic Dunes Course Review, Tee Times and Key Info

Carne Golf Links - Wild Atlantic Dunes Key Information

Beautifully sited on the County Mayo coastline, Carne Golf Links’ original course was in the Top 100 Golf Courses UK & Ireland until being leapfrogged by others. Now, the newer Kilmore nine has fully merged with the more spectacular nine of the original course to create the Wild Atlantic Dunes. This means that the thrills, beauty and drama are present for a full 18. It is all set to join the list of the best golf courses in Ireland. I was really excited to see the changes for myself last year.

The approach to Carne, just beyond the coastal town of Belmullet, makes you feel you are entering uncharted territory. The original course here was the last from the fertile imagination of Eddie Hackett, and was a fitting testament to one of golf architecture’s leading figures with nine holes that were very good but perhaps not so spectacular, and nine that were most definitely the latter.

The project to build another nine - the Kilmore nine - came to fruition a few years ago, but budgetary and maintenance issues meant that for a while it was on the back burner. The dunes throughout are now as spectacular as the front nine on the Strand Course at Portstewart.

You now follow the original routing through the first seven holes - it was originally the back nine but swapped - and then head out into the new holes before finally re-joining the original course for the last two. The result is simply fantastic, with our panellists generally insisting that there are quite simply no weak holes anywhere.

I think there is immense variation through the dunes with a healthy combination of demanding holes and a number where risk/reward means there are chances to score well. The fairways are generous although a good number are hidden from view - intimidating the first time here. The five short holes are excellent, each visually dramatic and with a good variety in length. The same number of par 5s are all sensible, offering the chance to attack but also giving safer options if you want to play more conservatively.

The course is lightly bunkered, but the topography means that few are needed. The routing through the dunes, the elevation changes and the wind provide all the challenge anyone would need. The greens are also cleverly designed - get on the wrong side of some pins and you will be in trouble. Many have sharp run-offs around them but they are generally in view and so quite fair with no hidden surprises.

Promotion from the Next 100 courses into the Top 100 is fully deserved. It would be no exaggeration to say that at least two of the Golf Monthly panellists fell in love with Carne!

What's new for 2025/26? What our panellists said...

Chris Boakes

Carne does not hold the prestige of numerous other great Irish links courses but is equal in friendly hospitality and the golf on offer. The course itself is enough to make the lengthy journey more than worth the effort. After a long wait for a return, I feel fulfilled in my golfing soul with the experience and will certainly get itchy feet before long to pay homage once again.

Gary Etherson

There is no such thing as a flat lie at Carne! This is no bulldozed creation, and is simply laid out on the land that was there. As such, the wildness is part of the charm. The rough and ready feel of the course suits the terrain.

Carne Golf Links Location

Carne Links - Wild Atlantic Dunes Scorecard

Best Courses Near To Carne Links

ENNISCRONE

As you approach the first green, you enter some of the finest and most attractive and dramatic dunes anywhere in the Top 100. This Eddie Hackett design is simply one of the most entertaining and varied links in the country.

COUNTY SLIGO

The opening three holes only hint at what is to come, as you then then head out over a spectacular dunescape packed with golfing delight. The views are outstanding, and at the far end, especially from the 9th round to the 13th, you feel as though you are in a different world.

Best Places To Stay Near Carne Golf Links

Broadhaven Bay Hotel - Book now at Booking.com

This 3-star hotel is surrounded by breathtaking scenery and fully equipped gym, as well as a spa and hairdressing salon. Rooms are elegant and stylish, and you can enjoy fine dining in the Bayside Restaurant. The more informal Kilmore Bar has a beautiful water setting, and offers food as well as weekend entertainment.

The Talbot Hotel - Book now via Booking.com

This 4-star townhouse is in the centre of Belmullet, and each room boasts sumptuous decor, unique furnishings, and an iPod dock. The sophisticated AA Rosette Barony Restaurant serves fresh cuisine, and guests can dine outside on the terrace, or inside next to the open fire. The stylish bar serves an all-day menu in casual surroundings .

Carne Links Course Gallery

Image 1 of 5

Historical Top 100 Rankings UK&I

• 2025/26 - 78
• 2023/24 - 76
• 2019/22 - Next 100
• 2017/18 - 93
• 2015/16 - 99
• 2013/14 - 96
• 2011/12 - 87
• 2009/10 - 82

Frequently Asked Questions