Although the course has evolved over time and moved away from its original Eddie Hackett design, Blacklion Golf Club now makes use of different tee positions and features 10 greens, ensuring that both nines play distinctly differently.

Measuring 5,839 metres (6,385 yards) and playing to a par of 72, the course may not be Ireland’s longest, but it remains a stern and engaging test of golf.

Subtle undulations throughout the layout, the strategic influence of the Upper McNean Lake, which plays an integral role on a number of holes, and the predominantly south-westerly wind combine to demand thoughtful shot-making and reward local knowledge.

“If you want cheap golf, pop 20km down the road and play Blacklion, all day, for €25. This nine-hole course bounds over heaving terrain, tumbling down to a lake. You won’t get the finesse of Lough Erne – Blacklion is maintained by volunteers – but for sheer entertainment and a dash of the different, you’ll be smiling all day long.”

— Kevin Markham in Irish Golfer Magazine 2025.

“Other courses may be more challenging and have grander clubhouses but few can compare with the serenity and beauty of Blacklion where both the tee box at the 180- yards, par-3, 2nd hole and the green daringly jut out into the lake making the task of keeping your ball dry more than a little daunting”

— Ivan Morris, author of Ireland’s best 9-Hole golf courses.