When we were looking for new links courses to try (without the hefty price tag), “have you played Corballis?” was a common refrain. We were familiar with it for sure, but never played. As it’s just outside Dublin and easily reachable, we figured it was the perfect follow-up to our last Donegal adventure. And great it certainly is.

It’s also a public course so its open to everyone. What surprised us most, apart from the spectacular sea views, was how good a condition it was in, even for winter. The greens in particular were first class. For a course this good so close to Dublin (with green fees so cheap) you’d have to suspect it gets a serious amount of traffic, but really, it’s not that noticeable. We checked in with a couple of locals who informed us that four new holes had been added in 2009 and improved some of the previously weaker holes at the northern end of the course.

It’s still only a par 66, but super-playable for a links and the front 9 is solid. It’s not long but the fairways are tight enough to make you think about your tee shot (and they’re in good condition too). There’s several holes  that run  along the beach, and provide for awesome coastal views. Situated on the same links land as the famed (and much more expensive) Island Golf Club – Corballis is shorter, a bit tight in places but every bit as fun.

Well worth a try.