Club Feature: The K Club (Palmer)
This is a big glamorous parkland golf. Lakes, streams,, rivers, ancient trees, lazy rhythm..and lots and lots of space. The Palmer course at the K Club carries an enormous reputation for its design pedigree (Arnold Palmer) and for the events it has hosted (Ryder Cup and European Opens). It is no surprise that it promises all the fills and thrills you could ask for.
The River Liffey squeezes some holes but many other water features abound on this gently rolling Kildare landscape.
Despite such volumes of water this is a relaxing round of golf with generous fairways and big greens. You probably won’t even mind depositing a ball in the Liffey on the par five 16th..countless others have done the very same. It is not a tough course but be sure to choose your tees wisely. The middle White tees measure 6,815 yards; the forward Green tees measure 6,240 yards.!
The K Club Smurfit opened in 2003. Like its sibling, it was designed by Arnold Palmer, with the aim of offering a very different experience to the Ryder Cup Course. The Smurfit is a shapely beast with huge shoulders of earth creating channels to play through. And water is a frequent visitor especially on the strong back nine.
The cliff and lake that dominate the 7th hole are an intriguing (man made) feature…but it is the final six holes that will tempt you and test you most. The par five 18th requires at least two excellent shots over water. The course has its own entrance and impressive clubhouse, and considerable investment in the past two years has enhanced playing conditions.
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By Kevin Markham – Editor, *Destination Golf Ireland 2018*.
**Pic credit of Palmer course/clubhouse – IAGTO website*
http://www.kclub.ie
