With the golf season approaching, Tourism Ireland celebrated the country’s long history on the links at a recent Toronto trade event, as well as looking ahead, in particular, to the Ryder Cup – one of the sports pre-eminent events – which will take place on the Emerald Isle in 2027.
The biennial tournament, which pits Team Europe vs. Team USA, will be held at Adare Manor in County Limerick, marking the centenary of the tournament.
Returning to Ireland for the first time since 2006, when Team Europe delivered a dominant performance at The K Club, the milestone event reinforces Ireland’s reputation as a world-class golf destination for Canadian visitors, says Tourism Ireland.
”Ireland’s reputation as a premier destination for championship golf events is well established, and with over a third of the world’s natural links courses and renowned Irish hospitality, the island offers an unrivalled experience for visitors both on and off the course” said Sandra Moffatt, Tourism Ireland’s Country Director for Canada.
“Golf travellers rarely travel for sport alone; they extend their stays, explore regions, and invest in premium experiences, making Ireland an ideal destination for travel trade looking to deliver high-value, immersive itineraries that resonate well beyond the fairway.”
Ireland is recognized as one of the world’s premier golf destinations, having been named International Golf Destination of the Year multiple times by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators. The island is home to an exceptional collection of world-class courses, many open year-round, and welcomes more than 240,000 golfers annually from around the globe.
Iconic venues such as Royal Portrush Golf Club in County Antrim, host of the 153rd Open Championship in 2025, Royal County Down Golf Club in County Down, and Old Head Golf Links in County Cork sit alongside outstanding modern additions, including St Patrick’s Links at Rosapenna Golf Resort in County Donegal and the highly anticipated Curracloe Links, set to open in 2027.
On hand for the event was Ireland’s Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan, and Ambassador of Ireland to Canada, John Concannon.
The Minister emphasised the importance of sports tourism to Ireland as preparations continue for the Ryder Cup event and highlighted the picturesque village of Adare, famed for its charming, thatched cottages and vibrant local culture, together with Adare Manor’s championship Tom Fazio-designed golf course.
For travel advisors and industry partners looking for information and resources, go to Visit Golf in Ireland
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