Carne Golf Links (Wild Atlantic Dunes)

What is special about Carne Golf Links?

Carne is Eddie Hackett's final great work — the last of the sixteen courses he contributed to Ireland's top 100, completed before his death in December 1996. It sits on the Erris Peninsula at Belmullet in the most remote part of Mayo, in dune terrain of extraordinary scale. The Wild Atlantic Dunes championship routing, launched in 2020, integrates Hackett's front nine with the newer Kilmore nine designed by Jim Engh and Ally McIntosh, and has been described by golf media as among the finest examples of natural links design in the world.

How do I get to Carne Golf Links?

Carne is at Belmullet on the Erris Peninsula — the most westerly point of Co. Mayo and one of the most remote locations of any significant golf course in Ireland. It is about ninety minutes from Ballina and two hours from Westport. Ireland West Knock Airport is an hour and fifteen minutes away. The drive through the bog and coastline of north Mayo is itself worth the journey.

Do I need to book Carne far in advance?

Carne has grown significantly in profile over the past decade and now draws international visitors specifically for the course. For summer months, booking a few weeks ahead through GolfNow is advisable. Outside peak season, availability is generally good at shorter notice. The remoteness of the location means it never feels overcrowded — even in high summer there is a sense of isolation on the course.

What should I know about playing Carne?

The dunes at Carne are among the largest of any links course — the terrain is genuinely wild and the course designed to work with, not against, the natural landscape. Bring waterproofs regardless of the forecast: the Erris Peninsula is fully exposed to the Atlantic. The clubhouse is modest and welcoming. Combine with Enniscrone (an hour south) or Rosses Point (an hour and a half south) for a west of Ireland links circuit.