51-60

	51 – Dromoland Castle The redesign this parkland course received under the astute eyes of Ron Kirby and Joe Carr has turned it into a serious contender for the top 50. Before, it was a nice stroll for residents staying in the (truly amazing) castle. Now, it is a proper test and another attraction at this intriguing golf destination.
	52 – Rathcore Built on a site of rolling grassland, several natural springs, three ponds, several furze-covered natural hillocks and three recorded archaeological sites; these factors influenced the design and this natural form has enabled it to be one of the most exciting new courses in Ireland. Water is in play on half a dozen holes.
	53 – Strandhill A quirky and thrilling links course with sea on two sides, big dunes and imagination in abundance. Across the bay from the mighty County Sligo, the views are wonderful and the golf never less than outstanding. It’s not a slog either – at 6,300 yards off the blue tees – so you are able to simply enjoy the experience.
	54 – Carton House (O’Meara) The 1998 Masters and Open champion may have produced the course rated as the second at this impressive venue, but it is still a highly enjoyable experience among mature woodland, water and sand. The river Rye is in place regularly and yet it is still good fun, especially if you shun the back tees which magically turn it into a championship course.
	55 – Portumna Portumna is enshrouded in dense, old woods, with many mature trees spilling onto this gentle landscape. The holes flow easily over an old estate, skirting herds of deer, old stone watch towers and the magnificent trees. The 3rd affords a view of many of the other holes.
	56 – Seapoint The opening of calm parkland holes is merely the appetiser before Seapoint switches into links mode. Gorse is everywhere, dousing the course in colour. The dunes get bigger, the challenges sterner and the closing run, beside the sea, is excellent. A serious contender for the top 50 in future lists.
	57 – Macreddin Paul McGinley’s first design is intriguing, stretching across opposite hillsides of beautiful Macreddin Valley. A buggy is recommended but it shouldn’t detract from an adventurous and testing round. This quality would cost a lot more if it had opened in a buoyant economy.
	58 – Skellig Bay Skellig Bay begins on a headland overlooking the bay and it is a mesmerising start. There is lots of room to play and holes are chaperoned by old stone walls and cairns. On the back nine, the Fionnglass River adds still more drama. A perfect foil for nearby Waterville – offering tremendous value too.
	59 – Cruit Island A favourite of BBC commentator Maureen Madill, it is set on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean and you drink in panoramic views from this remote location. A true links, it has just nine holes but the wind ensures each one plays in lots of different ways. Located to the north west of Kincasslagh, off the R259 in Donegal.
	60 – Galgorm Castle Set in 220 acres of parkland, Galgorm is a classy resort which is home to an exciting course built in the eponymous, 390-year-old castle’s grounds. The championship course starts with two exacting par 4s and measures over 6,700 yards while boasting lovely views of the castle and the countryside.