Emerald Greens: The Essential Guide to Golf Vacations in Ireland

It gives detailed descriptions of charming courses of great character and scenic beauty-many of them little known gems. All can be played for less than $75. Some cost as little as $15 a day. There are "Husband and Wife" bargain rates to be found as well.

It also explores the unique attractions in each area-the best of Irish food, drink, culture, scenery, and music. Have fun exploring islands, romantic ruins, exotic gardens and breathtaking scenery. Learn something of the history and drama of Ireland beyond the 18th green.

For golfers who have room in their heads and hearts for more than golf, this is an invaluable guide to what Ireland has to offer both on and off the course.

But I also have a number of complaints about the book. First, it's a travel book and I just couldn't ignore the stunning lack of pictures-especially of the courses. I'd rather look at 3 or 4 representative pictures of each course than wade through mind-numbing text about how water affects your tee-shot on the 4th hole. I also would have appreciated some kind of course rating system (3 stars or whatever) based on the author's judgment as to how tough a given course is, how scenic and so on. Or, perhaps, some authoritative, judgment statements about a given course as opposed to letting me develop a theory about it based on a page of text.

It's clear to me that the author has firm grasp on both the game of golf and what Ireland has to offer-but there may be better books out there. I hate being negative here because it was a well written and informative book, it just did not present the courses in a way I would have appreciated...


A charming and informative work   January 10, 2001
 5 out of 5 found this review helpful

It is not often that you pick up a book about golf courses and find it hard to put down. This inspirational book is well researched both in terms of the Golf courses and the local history, geography etc, but it's strength lies in the author's ability to convey her own evident passion for the subject by weaving these strands together to give an evocative picture of the places and give you a feel for the rich culture and history. I am a keen 10 handicap golfer and have visited Ireland many times over a number of years, this book really captures the charm of playing golf in Ireland. This will be the second thing I pack on my next trip - after the golf clubs of course.


The author writes back   November 27, 2000
 7 out of 9 found this review helpful

I am sorry the reader from Los Altos was disappointed with "Emerald Greens" but I set out to write a book that featured terrific golf courses that are not on the package tour route and that can be played for less than 50 sterling. It was also intended for the non-golfing companions of golfers and for golfers who like to discover something of the country in which they are playing and who take time to "smell the flowers." That's why I describe castles and gardens and scenic drives and tell you the names of the mountains you can see while you're playing or just driving between courses. The famous links at Ballybunion, Lahinch, Royal Portrush and Portmarnock can't be played for less than 50 at any time of the year. Neither can famous parkland courses like the K Club and Druid's Glen. However, Royal County Down (rated 3rd in the British Isles) Waterville, Baltray (a real conoisseur's course and a favourite of professional golfers)The European Club ARE included in the book and can all be played at bargain rates. Moreover, Ballybunion languished in obscurity until discovered and publicised by Tom Watson. Those who read about the courses in "Emerald Greens" will discover courses that rank with the best and that aren't overrun with visitors. I love Ballybunion, but I feel like I'm playing on a conveyor belt. Play - for example - Tulfarris in County Wicklow, Baltray in County Louth, Portstewart in County Derry, Carne, Enniscrone in Counties Sligo and Mayo (there are too many fine courses to mention)and see if you agree with me. They are all described in the book. Read the book - divided into 14 holiday areas - contact the tourist office in any area you fancy. They are all very scenic. The addresses and telephone numbers are supplied for each area. Be adventurous. Book your own car and accomodation. Each of the areas described could be covered in a week or even a weekend. Could I suggest flying to Belfast, taking the short 35 minute car journey to Royal County Down - one of the greatest links in the world - playing it and two other terrific links courses, each within 30 minutes drive of Royal County Down and seeing something of the beatiful countryside (described in the book) as well? I don't think you'll be disappointed. At least I hope not!


Not worth it.   November 16, 2000
 3 out of 6 found this review helpful

I purchased Emerald Greens to help me plan a golf vacation to Ireland. I was disappointed in that the book was not helpful at all. The author focuses on the obscure courses and ignores any well known venues. I'm not a total golf snob who only plays the premier courses, but if I am going to go all the way to Ireland to play golf I want to play some of the historic courses. If you have unlimited time and a limited budget this book would be helpful in finding courses to play. For my money Golfing in Ireland by Armstrong was much more useful.