Palmerstown House Estate Golf Course: In the grounds of Palmerstown House, Christy O'Connor Jr has laid out an excellent parkland course that meanders around a large part of this historic country estate. Originally known as PGA National Ireland, the well crafted layout takes you on a journey through a mix of tree-lined woodland holes, while at other times the setting is more open country in character.

Natural water hazards, often in the form of small lakes, run alongside several fairways and menacingly protect the approach to, or side of, at least eight greens. In places the course becomes almost garden-like, with flower beds adorning several holes.

Expansive bunkering and wonderfully crafted greens are also a key feature of this enjoyable golfing test. From the snaking and fiercely water protected par-5 6th to the gently ascending par-4 9th you are afforded views of Palmerstown House itself. All around are reminders of rural Ireland, and particularly its love affair with horse breeding and racing - but your abiding memory is likely to be the quality of this relatively new course, and those dangerously threatening water hazards.