New drone footage has revealed progress at the £16.5 million Dunluce Lodge luxury resort, which is due to open adjacent to Royal Portrush Golf Club ahead of next July’s Open Championship.
Located on the edge of the fourth fairway at the world famous links course, Dunluce Lodge will be operated by hotel management company Valor Hospitality Partners in partnership with the US based owners Links Collection, the same team behind the Seaton House hotel at St Andrews
Offering 35 suites with a sumptuous eight-suite private Stookan lodge for larger parties, the hotel will also feature an onsite putting green, designed by golf architect Martin Ebert, as well as private transfers to the nearby helipad and to the clubhouses at Royal Portrush and Portstewart Golf Club.
Valor says the hotel, which will employ 80 staff, will set a new standard in hospitality when it opens early next year.
General manager Stephen Meldrum said: “Following Xander Schauffele’s success at Royal Troon earlier this month, excitement levels are building in Northern Ireland, and the countdown to the 153rd Open Championship has truly begun.
“As our new drone footage shows, Dunluce Lodge will provide an unparalleled experience for guests on the Causeway Coast.
“The idea for Dunluce Lodge was born in 2019, when owners Jonathan Harper and Robert Covington attended the 148th Open at Royal Portrush and identified the need for a five-star hotel on the Causeway Coast.
“Whether you are here to watch The Open, play any of the area’s fantastic golf courses or simply enjoy the five-star experience on the rugged Causeway Coast, you can relax knowing your individual experience will be tailored to your needs. We cannot wait to open our doors and greet our guests with our warm and genuine Irish hospitality.”
John McGrillen, chief executive of Tourism NI, added: “Golf tourism is of growing importance to the Northern Ireland economy and with The Open returning to the north coast in 2025, it’s important we have an accommodation stock that meets the needs of all visitors to the region.
“Dunluce Lodge and the development of the Valley Course into another world class links are welcome additions to the tourism offer in Portrush.
“These investments will encourage our golfing visitors to stay longer, spend more in the local economy, create employment opportunities and help sustain local hospitality and retail businesses on the North Coast.”
The 2016 Open was the biggest sporting event ever held in Northern Ireland, attracting 238,000 spectators and delivering a combined economic and media benefit of more than £100 million to the region.
Similar numbers are expected next year, with a ballot for ticket sales already opened.
