Carved among the colossal sand dunes, the golf course provides superb views across the Atlantic mouth of Lough Foyle and the Inishowen peninsula. The web of dunes that plays host to Portstewart is called ‘Thirsty Hollow', and is a truly spectacular place to enjoy a foray into Irish golf.

The designer has created a number of incredible holes, and deserves credit for ensuring that the new holes assimilate subtly and smoothly with the originals. Of any, the most fascinating hole is arguably the opening hole, daunting downhill par-4 that gives an insight into the immense character of the golf course throughout. Just a few minutes from the equally magnificent Royal Portrush, Portstewart is at the heart of a magnificent Northern Irish golf tour.

2014 saw Portstewart placed at the forefront of amateur golf in its hosting of the 119th Amateur Championship. As part of the 36 hole qualification process, the links layout provided a suitable test for the world's amateur golfers. The championship was eventually won by Bradley Neil who triumphed over South African Zander Lombard with a 2&1 victory in the 36 hole final.

The original 9 holes of The Old Course run along the rocky coastline, east of Portstewart town on the Portmore Road heading towards Portrush. During the early 1900s the club managed to obtain more land and by 1934 the course had been extended to 18 holes.

Not a long course by any standards but the ancient fairways are great for groups of golfers looking for enjoyment combined with a walk through history.

The scenic Riverside Course meanders along the banks of the River Bann, not as challenging as The Strand but still a good test of your golfing ability.