This traditional golfing region of Ireland, quite literally surrounding Dublin, offers some of the best championship courses in the world - and a host of lesser known gems of stunning quality.

It is no coincidence that more European Tour events have been played in Ireland’s East Coast & Midlands Region than in any other part of the country. The Ryder Cup Venue at The K Club has hosted the European Open for many years whilst in recent times the prestigious Irish Open has been held at Carton House, Baltray and Druid’s Glen. Snapping at the heels of the more established courses are precocious youngsters such as Powerscourt, the PGA National in Kildare and The Heritage in Co. Laois, designed by Seve Ballesteros.

Along the East Coast, no golfing trip would be complete without a visit to the magnificent European Club, a venue which has a growing reputation as one of the world’s best links courses. Further north, you will find three more top class links courses in Co. Louth Golf Club (Baltray), Seapoint and Laytown & Bettystown.

The “big name” venues are however only part of the story. Throughout the region you will find courses of stunning quality and character. Take for example Glasson near Athlone in Co. Westmeath. The shores of Lough Ree provide the sublime setting for this wonderful championship golf course designed by Christy O’Connor Jnr. Two other O’Connor creations worth a special mention are Esker Hills, carved from the unique “esker” landscape of Co. Offaly and the magnificent new course at Headfort, Co Meath– certainly one of Ireland ’s best parkland tracks.

Everywhere you travel in the region you will find golf courses of the highest rank. Take for example Tulfarris, set among three peninsulas that overlook the Blessington Lakes south of Dublin or Woodenbridge and Rathsallagh, twowonderfully picturesque courses nestled among the rolling hills of County Wicklow . With exciting new golf course developments such as Knightsbrook, New Forest and Moy Valley springing up around the region all the time, you will find yourself simply spoilt for choice.

You may be forgiven for thinking that such golfing heaven comes only with a lofty price tag – be pleasantly surprised! Superb value is to be found throughout the East Coast & Midlands Region, with very reasonable green fees, excellent food and top quality accommodation combining to ensure a memorable experience which will see you returning time and time again.