Every athlete has his or her own perfect fantasy. Racing fans dream of tearing up the Laguna Seca. Up-and-coming baseball heroes practice day and night in hopes of batting one over the vines at Wrigley Field. And no golfer's life is complete without a golf vacation on the Emerald Isle. If ever there existed a heavenly place for golfers, it would surely be Ireland.

Ireland is the home of some of the finest world-renowned golf courses. This beautiful country offers fabulous golf courses that are sure to suit every athlete's dream. Few places on earth can compare to the lush greenery and vibrant, natural beauty of the rolling fields of Ireland. This country offers both gorgeous parkland golf courses, and challenging link courses, providing a complete and totally unique golf experience. If you like to golf, you'll absolutely love an Ireland golf vacation.

Many of Ireland's link golf courses are natural creations, carved from the sand dunes of Ireland's coastline. The Ireland coast is dotted with sea inlets that provide challenging and satisfying games for even the most advanced golfers. Parkland golf courses, on the other hand, are inland areas set among oak trees, many of which are more than a hundred years old. Combined with Ireland's natural hilly terrain, these create the perfect golf course.

This natural, pristine beauty and challenging golf courses made Ireland a certain choice to host the 2006 Ryder Cup, only adding to the incredible experience of those enjoying an Ireland golf vacation. Located in County Kildare, this prestigious event was open to all guests of the K Club.

Those who really know and appreciate the timeless sport of golf will not think twice before packing up for an Ireland golf vacation. If you choose to embark on this unforgettable adventure, be sure to make the most of it. Don't limit your explorations to only the golf courses. Be willing to venture out and experience everything that the Irish people and the country have to offer.

Ireland's majestic sightseeing spots are every bit as fabulous as the golf courses. It's just not possible to fit every adventure into a single vacation, so plan ahead and make the most of your time spent in Ireland.

Most of your time will likely be spent on those exquisite golf courses, but try to fit some additional excursions around your tee times. It will take a bit of planning and schedule juggling, but the results are well worth the effort.

Use your time between games for sightseeing excursions throughout the countryside. This way, you won't feel as though you've missed something when the end of your Ireland golf vacation rolls around. It's a great way to experience the best of both worlds in one fantastic getaway.

You have many accommodation options to consider when planning your golf vacation in Ireland. There are quaint, family-run restaurants and inns and large, internationally-owed hotels. Historic castles are available to satisfy those who have a true taste for adventure and a little extra money to spend. There is also a chain of guesthouses in Ireland that are linked to small hotels. Guests at these charming hotels often enjoy a true taste of Ireland with wonderful localized home-cooked meals.

Remember to take the time to sample a number of different restaurants. Like all vacation destinations, the dining choices in Ireland range from intimate to expansive and affordable to expensive. Many Irish restaurants prepare top quality cuisine using their own recipes and, like the links and courses of Ireland, every one is a little bit different.

If you're a golfer ready to live the dream, start planning your golf vacation on the Emerald Isle. The sights, sounds and the sport are unlike anything you've experienced before.