Every summer, the world of golf revolves around The Open, the sport’s most prestigious championship. Unlike other majors, the British Open rotates its venue among the UK’s most historic courses, making each edition a unique opportunity to discover iconic destinations.
On July 13, the tournament returns to the majestic Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland, offering the perfect excuse to explore this North Atlantic jewel. The Open Championship at Portrush is not only one of the most important sporting events in the world, but also the perfect occasion for those seeking exclusive, carefully curated travel experiences.
Whether driven by a passion for golf or the opportunity to build valuable connections, network, and strengthen professional relationships, The Open is a gateway to a truly distinctive trip.
The British Open Golf, a legendary event in a land of character
The British Open is the oldest golf tournament in the world and one of the four major championships that define the international golf calendar. With over 160 years of history, this championship has witnessed some of the sport’s most iconic moments, such as the legendary “Duel in the Sun” between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus in 1977.
Each edition becomes a global gathering for players, brands, executives, celebrities, and fans alike. And in 2025, for the first time since 2019, The Open returns to the Northern Irish coast, to the Royal Portrush Golf Club, a setting as breathtaking as it is demanding. Portrush stands among the most challenging and legendary courses in the world, surrounded by a raw natural beauty of sweeping views of the Atlantic, fairways framed by towering dunes, and dramatic cliffs that define its rugged character.
This event also offers a rare chance to explore one of the UK’s most authentic and least-traveled destinations. Northern Ireland presents a different kind of luxury, measured in unspoiled landscapes, exceptional Irish cuisine, and experiences crafted for those who value detail, serenity, and a deep connection with nature.
Exclusivity, culture, and untamed nature in Northern Ireland
Over the past decade, Northern Ireland has experienced a true renaissance. With its wild cliffs, rugged coastlines, mist-covered valleys, castles, and rich history, it has attracted travelers seeking peacefulness, untouched landscapes, and culture.
Far from the crowds of mass tourism, this region has managed to maintain an air of understated exclusivity, something increasingly valued by discerning travelers. It’s a place where disconnection and authenticity naturally coexist to offer a unique travel experience.
From its emerging fine dining scene, with chefs reinterpreting local produce through a contemporary lens, to its charming boutique hotels, scenic routes, and tailored activities such as private tastings, helicopter tours, and guided visits off the beaten path, this destination has become one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.
Local flavors with a gourmet twist
The gourmet cuisine of Northern Ireland has evolved significantly in recent years, establishing itself as an unexpected destination for lovers of fine dining.
- OX Belfast: one of only two Michelin-starred restaurants in Northern Ireland, OX is a benchmark for modern Northern Ireland cuisine. Its seasonal tasting menu, paired with carefully selected wines, is perfect for an intimate evening or a business dinner.
- The Muddlers Club: also Michelin-starred, this restaurant offers dishes that blend creativity with local roots. It’s ideal for those seeking contemporary and exclusive dining near Portrush.
- Harry’s Shack: located by the beach, this restaurant with a view near Portrush serves fresh seafood in a relaxed environment, perfect after a day of golf or as a stop on a scenic coastal route.
Beyond restaurants, Northern Ireland offers tailored gastronomic experiences, such as private whiskey tastings at boutique distilleries like The Echlinville Distillery, with exclusive access to limited barrels. Select wine-paired menus are served in historic country estates like Culloden Estate & Spa, where the history of the location enriches the experience. Visitors can also meet local culinary experts in charming cottages converted into accommodations, such as Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen, where private classes in traditional dishes and pastries are available.
Unique accommodations inspired by Celtic heritage
Accommodation in Northern Ireland is an integral part of the experience. Hotels with local character, attention to detail, and privileged settings offer a unique way to connect with the destination, especially those renowned for their authenticity, service, and location.
- The Merchant Hotel: a timeless classic located in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, it combines Victorian architecture, private lounges, wellness services, and the award-winning restaurant The Great Room.
- Ballygally Castle Hotel: a 17th-century castle by the sea with private gardens and views of the Causeway Coastal Route. This is a unique option for those seeking history and tranquility in an exceptional setting.
- Bushmills Inn Hotel: just minutes from the Royal Portrush and The Giant’s Causeway, this boutique hotel blends local tradition with Northern Ireland’s luxury gastronomy.
These luxury accommodations in Northern Ireland are complemented by exclusive experiences and activities. Book a private helicopter flight along the Causeway Coastal Route for spectacular aerial views of cliffs, beaches, and castles. Take a private tour of Game of Thrones filming locations, including forests, fortresses, and natural sites featured in the series, or enjoy a personalized private tour around Northern Ireland, combining a visit to The Giant’s Causeway with a gourmet picnic by the sea.
Enhance your stay with a private chauffeur during The British Open 2025
Having luxury transportation in Northern Ireland is not just a matter of comfort, it can become a key ally in making the most of every moment of your stay while avoiding any logistical complications.
A private chauffeur during The Open will help you arrive swiftly and smoothly, coordinating preferential access with the event organizers. Additionally, your driver will adapt with complete flexibility to any changes in your schedule, whether for meetings, social events, or transfers between other activities.
A private transportation service during the British Open in Portrush, like the one offered by Drivania Chauffeurs, goes beyond simple airport-to-event transfers. Northern Ireland boasts spectacular scenic routes, often far from urban centers or with limited infrastructure for large tourist flows. Having a local driver familiar with the terrain will even allow you to plan a 7-day Ireland tour, traveling with ease, optimizing your time, and discovering breathtaking, hard-to-reach places without any worries.