Golf in Ireland's north east

If you’ve been cooped up in a plane or a car for several hours, the first thing you have to do is stretch those legs – and what better way than nine holes at the glorious County Louth Golf Club.

Described as a “snapshot of the way golf should be” by Golf Digest, this course is as varied as it is challenging, with each hole posing a different conundrum. If some friends and family don’t fancy the golf, they can take in the glorious sights of the Cooley and Mourne mountains, or pay a visit to the quaint village of Baltray.

Once you’ve worked up a hunger on the course, make your way to the club house for a quick bite to eat. The famous Clogherhead scampi are a must try – but if seafood isn’t your thing you can refuel with a hearty steak sandwich. Bon appetit!

After the peaceful and serene Baltray Village, the epic sight of Killeavy Castle Estate will come as a delightful surprise. Nestled in 350 acres of woodland and walled gardens, this country estate feels like being transported to the past. But you’ve a long night ahead, so get some rest and get ready.

If you really want relaxation, you have to experience Killeavy’s forest bathing. With a combination of guided meditation and controlled breathing, the sounds and sights of nature will reduce your stress and leave you feeling refreshed.

And now the highlight of the day: dinner! And at Killeavy you have a very special meal ahead of you. Its seven-course tasting menu brings together some of the finest produce from the local area as well as across the island. Fragrant braised lamb, hearty seafood salad and a glazed fillet of longhorn beef are just some of the treats on the menu – it’s a feast fit for royalty…

Hopefully you had a restorative night’s sleep in the plush rooms of Killeavy, because you have a long day ahead! First on the agenda, of course, is a quick 9 holes of golf, and Warrenpoint is here to oblige.

This hidden gem is flanked by the towering Mourne Mountains, and the pristine Carlingford Lough, but don’t be disarmed by the sights – the golf provides a fierce challenge. Especially “Cloughmore”, the par four 8th hole has a tee shot that carries over water, followed by a blind approach to the green, not for the faint of heart!

So after a delightful morning of golf, it’s now time to make your way to the world of Ice and Fire, Westeros!

One of the best aspects of HBOs megahit series Game of Thrones – based on the beloved novels by George RR Martin – was how vividly it brought the world of Westeros to life, and Linen Mill Studios in Banbridge played a key role. Their Game of Thrones Studio Tour unpacks everything that made the world so compelling – from the distinctive artistic concepts, to the stunning props and sets.

So switch your nine iron for a Valyrian steel sword, and journey to the Seven Kingdoms…

After a long day, make your way to Titanic Hotel Belfast in the heart of the Titanic Quarter. The building – once the headquarters of shipbuilders Harland and Wolff – is the most authentic Titanic Hotel available. The preserved historical building houses over 500 artworks and photographs, as well as art deco rooms that balance historical luxury with modern comfort.

But before you relax for the evening, pop over the River Lagan and visit The Merchant Hotel’s sumptuous restaurant, The Great Room. From the classy Victorian interior, to the gorgeous 2 AA Rosette winning cuisine, this is an experience that oozes class. If you fancy a more casual meal, pop into the Cloth Ear next door – this traditional-style Irish pub is perfect for a few drinks or a hearty feed, the ideal way to wind down after a long day…

Since you’ve bedded down in the Titanic Quarter, it’s only right that you see what’s on offer. If you want to get as many of the sights in as possible, check out the Lagan Legends Walking Tour. Tour guide Donal – connected to the Titanic Quarter through three generations – will bring you through the Maritime Mile, taking in sights like the Titanic Slipways and SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line ship in the world.

If you have some time to spare, make sure to visit the jewel of the Titanic Quarter, Titanic Belfast and take an immersive interactive tour through the Ship of Dream’s story. Or if you’re a bit peckish back to the Titanic Belfast Hotel for a spot of afternoon tea!

You’ve sampled a bit of everything while you’re here – but let’s not forget the main thing on the agenda: the golf! The home of Rory McIlroy, Holywood Golf Club combines a classic parkland course, with cutting edge facilities – as well as some of the most stunning views Belfast has to offer. You have a full day ahead, so knock out a quick nine holes, grab a bite at Restaurant 1904 and venture further south. Your journey isn’t over yet!

In the middle of a stunning 1,500 estate in the Boyne Valley, you’ll find Slane Castle. If you get here early enough, you’ll have plenty of options to fill out your afternoon. There are walking tours to discover the grounds, and a castle tour to unearth the Conyngham’s family history which dates back to 1703 – but best of all is the distillery tour.

Set in the 250-year-old castle stables, the tour features skilled storytellers who will take you through the history of the castle, and detail the ancient art of whiskey making. You’ll learn the process behind the famous triple casked blend, and discover the unique flavors and aromas that make up each whiskey. Sure, there are worse ways to while away an afternoon.

We’re coming to the end of our journey, so the finish better be memorable. How’s this: in the heart of Dublin, FIRE Steakhouse and Bar brings a combination of luxurious food, and an opulent setting. What better way to reflect on three days of golf, history and culture, than a delicious 35 day dry-aged Irish Hereford prime steak, in a stunning, high roofed 19th century dining room. A lordly send off for a memorable journey…