The Heritage Killenard Golf Resort

The Heritage at Killenard represents Seve Ballesteros's only golf course design in Ireland, developed in collaboration with architect Jeff Howes and opened in 2000. The course occupies parkland in County Laois, roughly an hour southwest of Dublin, where the relatively flat Irish midlands terrain has been shaped into a championship layout featuring extensive water hazards, strategic bunkering, and mature tree plantings that have matured significantly since opening. The routing incorporates several large lakes that come into play on multiple holes, creating risk-reward scenarios characteristic of Ballesteros's competitive philosophy as a player. The design emphasizes strategic options from the tee and demands precision on approach shots, with generous fairways balanced by well-protected greens. The parkland setting lacks the dramatic elevation changes of links or coastal courses, but the layout uses water, trees, and contouring to define holes and create variety across the eighteen. The Heritage has hosted professional events on the European Tour, including the Irish Open in 2003 and 2004, bringing international attention to the course during its early years. The facility operates as part of a resort complex that includes a hotel and spa, serving both visiting golfers and members. The course plays to a championship length exceeding 7,000 yards from the back tees, though multiple tee options accommodate different skill levels. Its inland location and parkland character distinguish it from Ireland's more famous links courses, offering a different style of golf within the Irish landscape.