Ireland

Carne Golf Links

Courses: 3
Best for: Links
Airport: NOC
Courses: 3
Best for: Links golf enthusiasts
Airport: Ireland West Airport Knock (NOC)

Carne Golf Links is located in Belmullet, County Mayo, on Ireland’s remote Mullet Peninsula. Access is by flying into a regional airport such as Ireland West Airport Knock, followed by a road transfer. The club features 27 holes of classic dunes links golf, with the original Hackett 18 and the Kilmore 9, known for their rugged natural terrain and coastal views. The course is best known for its dramatic landscape and challenging layout. Ideal for a 2–3 day visit, Carne suits experienced golfers seeking authentic links play in a secluded setting.

Courses: 3 courses
Best months: April to October
Ideal length: 3-5 days
From airport: 1.5 hours

Golf Courses at Carne Golf Links

Swipe to view all 3 courses

01 / 03

Ireland · Course 1

Hackett Course

Holes: 18
Par: 72
Yards: 6800
Est.: 1993

A stunning links course designed by Eddie Hackett, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and challenging play with natural dunes and rugged terrain.

02 / 03

Ireland · Course 2

Kilmore 9

Holes: 9
Par: 36
Yards: 3100
Est.: 2004

A scenic 9-hole course that complements the main links, featuring unique challenges and beautiful coastal scenery.

03 / 03

Ireland · Course 3

Wild Atlantic Dunes Course

Holes: 18
Par: 72
Yards: 7300
Est.: 2013

A dramatic and challenging course that takes full advantage of the natural landscape, offering a true links experience with towering dunes and panoramic ocean views.

Ireland · Course 1

Hackett Course

Holes: 18
Par: 72
Yards: 6800
Est.: 1993

A stunning links course designed by Eddie Hackett, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and challenging play with natural dunes and rugged terrain.

Ireland · Course 2

Kilmore 9

Holes: 9
Par: 36
Yards: 3100
Est.: 2004

A scenic 9-hole course that complements the main links, featuring unique challenges and beautiful coastal scenery.

Ireland · Course 3

Wild Atlantic Dunes Course

Holes: 18
Par: 72
Yards: 7300
Est.: 2013

A dramatic and challenging course that takes full advantage of the natural landscape, offering a true links experience with towering dunes and panoramic ocean views.

Carne Golf Links in Ireland — golf lifestyle

What to Expect at Carne Golf Links

Why visit

Carne Golf Links offers 27 holes of authentic dunes links golf, designed by Eddie Hackett and further developed by Ally McIntosh and team. The two courses, Hackett and Wild Atlantic Dunes, provide varied layouts and challenging play amid dramatic coastal scenery. The location on the Mullet Peninsula delivers a remote, unspoiled setting, while practical access is available via fly-and-transfer options from nearby airports. Distinguishing features include the combination of classic and modern links design, flexible tee options, and the opportunity to experience both established and newer holes in one destination.

Accommodations

Clubhouse with bar/restaurant, pro shop, practice facilities

Resort amenities

Top 100 Golf Course in UK & Ireland
Top 10 Golf Course in Ireland
Ideal Location for a North West Ireland Golf Tour
Opened in 1992
Designed by Eddie Hackett

Plan Your Trip to Carne Golf Links

Getting there

The nearest major airport to Carne Golf Links is Ireland West Airport Knock (NOC), located approximately 110 km (68 miles) from Belmullet. The typical transfer time by car or private transfer is about 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. Rental cars and pre-booked private transfers are the most practical options for reaching the course from the airport.

Best time to visit: The prime months for golf at Carne Golf Links are May through September, when temperatures are mild (typically 55–65°F/13–18°C), daylight is longest, and course conditions are optimal. July and August offer the most reliable weather but attract the highest demand and green fees. April, May, and September are considered shoulder season, providing good value with fewer crowds and slightly cooler, breezier conditions. Winter months (November–March) see limited daylight, increased rainfall, and reduced clubhouse hours, but offer the lowest rates. Major tournaments can increase demand in peak summer, so booking well in advance is advised during these periods.
Who it's best for: Carne Golf Links is ideal for adventurous golfers seeking a remote, authentic links experience in Ireland. Best suited for small groups or couples interested in multi-day packages, it offers good value compared to more famous Irish courses. The area has a lower course density, so it's perfect for those who prefer a focused golf retreat rather than a dense golf region. Access requires a fly-and-transfer approach, making it more practical for travelers comfortable with longer transfers and looking for a quieter, scenic setting away from major cities.
Address: Carne, Belmullet, Co. Mayo, Ireland
Location: Carne Golf Links, Belmullet, Co. Mayo, Ireland
Nearest airport: Ireland West Airport Knock (NOC)
Trip style: resort
Best for: Links golf enthusiasts, Golfers seeking remote, scenic courses, Northwest Ireland golf tours

Frequently Asked Questions about Carne Golf Links

What is the best way to reach Carne Golf Links?

The most convenient way to reach Carne Golf Links is by flying into a nearby airport and arranging a private transfer to Belmullet, County Mayo.

When is Carne Golf Links open for play?

Carne Golf Links is generally open during daylight hours. The clubhouse and visitor facilities typically operate from 09:00 to 19:30 on main playing days, with shorter hours in winter.

How many holes does Carne Golf Links offer?

Carne Golf Links features 27 holes, divided between the Hackett 18 and the Kilmore 9, all set on classic dunes links terrain.

Who designed Carne Golf Links?

The original 18 holes at Carne were designed by Eddie Hackett, with later additions by Ally McIntosh and his team.

What type of golf experience can I expect at Carne?

Golfers can expect a pure links experience, with challenging dunes, championship-length holes, and scenic coastal views.

Are there recommended accommodations nearby?

Mount Falcon, located just outside Ballina, is a popular luxury accommodation option for golfers visiting Carne Golf Links.

Can Carne Golf Links be included in a golf tour of Northwest Ireland?

Yes, Carne Golf Links is often featured in multi-course tours of Northwest Ireland, alongside other renowned links such as Enniscrone and Ballyliffin.

On the map