Written by Staff Writer at CNN
Overlooking the waterfront, the Porthill Residences community in Portadown, Northern Ireland, has dozens of spectacular views of the lake; the nearby Antrim coast and the skies beyond. But its most unique feature, which allows golfers to have the most unparalleled views of the course, is hidden out of sight.
“People tell me I’m very lucky as there is no other private golf club in Europe with views like that, including others on the continent,” says Ian Salm, founder of golf club Salm Champions and the company that’s developed Porthill Residences . “And it’s not just the views that are unique.”
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The expansive “front,” or the central square where the clubhouse and reception are located, hosts a transformed fountain and waterfall which shoots out thousands of tiny droplets on a weekly basis.
“It’s a phenomenal view for anyone who wants the golf course straight in front of them and that’s done in a very feng shui design,” Salm says.
The renowned Northern Irish architect Brian Dunn designed the course, which is flanked by stunning stone and brick buildings, with 13 holes and two chalets. The first hole was designed to showcase a social work charity.
“It is a world-class golf course. Not every golf course in the world can have a charity initiative,” Salm says.
The course also has an adjacent beach, although when the resort opens it won’t be at the forefront of public use: there’s only one beach and it will be a private beach that has only one entrance and the beach will be closed for all but the residents.
Cars can be rented for drivers and golf carts are a constant on the course.
While he’s not a player, Salm has played 18 holes at Woodlands, another golf course Salm has built on the Scottish coast.
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“It’s a marvelous course. The green features are just superb. The courses here in Ireland are some of the best in Europe and they are going to make that happen here,” Salm says.
The Porthill Residences community also includes an underground tunnel, in which salons and other amenities are located. The community and the clubhouse offer unique opportunities for members and the community alike.
As for the chances of hosting a Championship tournament, Salm says he’s always in the running.
