Lee Valley Golf & Country Club – Championship-Parkland Gem in Cork’s Green Valley

#mytraveldiary Ambience & Setting Lee Valley Golf & Country Club is nestled just west of Cork City, in the lush, rolling countryside outside Ovens, County Cork. Designed by Christy O’Connor Jr. and opened in 1993, the 18-hole parkland course unfolds across gently sloping terrain, framed by woodland, hedgerows, and views of the Cork & Kerry Mountains in the distance. Water hazards sparkle in sunlight, bunkers lie scattered, and the clubhouse sits elevated, watching over fairways that flow naturally with the land.  ⸻ Highlights • Championship-Quality Layout – 18 holes, ~6,715 yards, par-72. The course balances challenges for serious golfers with enjoyable holes for players of varying skill.  • Signature Holes – Several holes feature water carry hazards (e.g. the 12th, a 179-yard par-3 that requires a shot over water) and dog-leg designs demanding strategic play.  • Surrounding Beauty – Panoramic views, mature trees lining fairways, scenic settings including nearby Farran Woods. It’s as much about the landscape as it is golf.  • Facilities & Hospitality – The clubhouse includes a restaurant/bar, well-appointed changing rooms, pro shop; serviced with amenities like buggy hire and practice areas.  • Accommodation & Packages – On-site holiday cottages (e.g. Farran Lee Cottages) allow visitors to stay close by, making it suitable as a base for exploring the region.  ⸻ Practical Info • Location: Mullaghroe, Ovens, County Cork, Ireland (≈ 15-20 minutes from Cork City).  • Getting There: Drive via local roads from Cork; public transport or local shuttle services may be available for groups. Car parking is available.  • Green Fees & Booking: Fees vary; tee times and booking needed especially in peak season. Corporate and group bookings welcome.  • Best Time to Visit: Spring through autumn for best conditions (grass, weather); early morning or late afternoon for softer light; weekday visits are less crowded. ⸻ Why It’s Worth Visiting Lee Valley Golf & Country Club offers more than just a round of golf—it combines serious design with natural beauty, comfort, and accessibility. It’s a place where golfers can be challenged, enjoy the landscape, stay locally, and unwind. Even non-golfers accompanying players find things to appreciate: the views, the surroundings, and the charm of countryside Cork. ⸻ Final Thoughts If you go, allow time for both the course and the environment: take photos of views from high holes, linger after your game in the clubhouse or terrace, perhaps stay in the nearby cottages to enjoy sunrise over the fairways. Golf here isn’t just about score—it’s about feeling the green valley, the breeze, and the space between shots.