Links · Rosapenna & Fanad

Rosapenna Golf Resort. Sandy Hills Links.

Designed by Pat Ruddy and widely regarded as Rosapenna's signature course, the Sandy Hills Links winds through vast sand dunes above Sheephaven Bay with spectacular Atlantic views on every hole — a modern classic of Irish links design.

Par 71Par
6,440Yards
€75From Weekday
€120Peak Rate
Book Tee Time → Rosapenna Golf Break
Course Guide

Rosapenna Golf Resort – Sandy Hills Links

The Sandy Hills Links is the jewel in Rosapenna Golf Resort's crown — a masterful Pat Ruddy design that opened in 2003 and has since established itself as one of Ireland's most exciting and visually spectacular links courses. Set on the Rosapenna Peninsula in north-west Donegal, it tumbles through towering sand dunes above the turquoise waters of Sheephaven Bay, with Muckish Mountain and the Errigal peaks providing a dramatic backdrop on clear days.

Playing to 6,440 yards from the championship tees and par 71, the course demands a complete game. The dunes create natural corridors between fairways, the greens are firm and well-contoured, and the Atlantic wind adds an unpredictable dimension that ensures no two rounds are ever the same. Several holes play from elevated tees with views that stop you in your tracks — golf and scenery in perfect combination.

The Sandy Hills Links is the recommended course for first-time visitors to Rosapenna, though the resort's three-course offering means that return visits allow exploration of the Old Tom Morris and St. Patrick's Links as well. The on-site hotel provides an ideal base for multi-night golf breaks with dinner, accommodation and multiple rounds all available as a package.

Course Layout

Scorecard & Yardage

Championship tees — yards

Hole123456789Out101112131415161718InTotal
Par443543444355434435443671
Yards374382170510368162398364392312052037616839439615849540640733206440
Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before you play Sandy Hills

The Sandy Hills Links is generally considered Rosapenna's flagship course and is recommended for first-time visitors. However, many returning golfers argue that the newer St. Patrick's Links has overtaken it for drama and design quality. The Old Tom Morris Links offers a more traditional experience with historical significance. Ideally, play all three on a 3-night break.
Yes — Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Resort offers on-site accommodation including hotel rooms and self-catering lodges. Golf and accommodation packages are available directly through the resort, with rates including multiple rounds across the three courses. The hotel has a restaurant and bar and is ideally positioned for a fully immersive golf break.
Rosapenna Golf Resort is approximately 70km north-west of Letterkenny, a drive of around 60–75 minutes. The route takes you through some spectacular Donegal scenery including the Fanad Peninsula and the shores of Mulroy Bay. Letterkenny is the nearest town of significant size and the location of Letterkenny Golf Club for those wanting a parkland alternative.
The Sandy Hills Links was designed by Pat Ruddy, one of Ireland's most celebrated golf course architects. Ruddy is also the designer of The European Club in Wicklow — often ranked Ireland's top links course. Sandy Hills opened in 2003 and showcases Ruddy's skill at using natural terrain to create dramatic, flowing golf holes.
The Sandy Hills Links is challenging but playable for golfers of most abilities, particularly from the forward tees. The course is best suited to mid-to-low handicappers from the back tees, where the full length and exposure to the elements provide a stern test. High-handicappers may prefer the Old Tom Morris Links as an introduction to Rosapenna.
Also at Rosapenna

Three world-class links on the Fanad Peninsula

›

Rosapenna – Old Tom Morris Links

Rosapenna, Downings

€50–€80

 ›

Rosapenna – St. Patrick's Links

Rosapenna, Downings

€75–€120

 ›

Portsalon Golf Club

Portsalon, Fanad Peninsula

€30–€50

View all 11 Donegal courses →