History of Waterville:

Golf at Waterville dates back to 1889. However, the 1973 rebirth of the course by Eddie Hackett made it famous for Irish golf tours. The subsequent renovation by Tom Fazio in 2006 firmly established the links as one of the best in Ireland. Today, the links is currently ranked #97 by Golf Magazine World Top 100 Golf Courses.

Interestingly, Waterville is where workers settled when laying the Transatlantic Cable linking North America and Europe by telegraph in the 1880s. This gigantic project helped facilitate the need for the golf course in 1889.

Over the years, many famous golfers have vacationed at Waterville including Tiger Woods, Payne Stewart and Mark O’Meara. Together they would golf, fish and enjoy the Guinness and music prior to The Open Championship in England or Scotland. Stewart was actually named Captain of Waterville GC shortly before his untimely 1999 plane crash.

Course Overview:

Waterville can stretch up to 7,347 yards. However, most visiting gents will play the white tees at 6,556 yards or the green tees at 6,252 yards and par 72.  Also, ladies will normally play a much more manageable par 73 course at 5,370 yards. Although the Atlantic wind will wreak havoc with any set of tees!

One of the most famous holes at Waterville is the par three 12th, Mass Hole, where Catholics would practice their religion low beneath the dunes to hide from the ruling British.

Guests will love the new and improved 2019 clubhouse renovations with the lovely historical exhibits and the fine 1889 Bar & Restaurant. The renovation makes the Waterville Golf Links facilities clearly among the best in Ireland.  The lucky few can also stay at the adjacent Waterville House, an exclusive Georgian house hotel with 12 bedrooms and luxurious amenities.

When visiting the Irish southwest coast, your Ireland golf package should always include Waterville. It is always ranked in the top three of Pioneer Golf customer experiences!