Druids Glen Resort outside Dublin, Ireland has come full circle

COUNTY WICKLOW, Ireland -- Druids Glen Resort, a five-star, 145-room retreat that opened in 2002, has come full circle under the watchful eye of its original investors.

A spa, a full health club with a pool and a range of dining options attract a variety of guests looking to relax in a region known as "The Garden of Ireland."

Golfers flock to play its two courses. The parkland Druids Glen and the heathland Druids Heath provide a stark contrast in settings and playing experiences.

The Glen, which opened in 1995, just in time to host the Irish Open from 1996-1999, is called "The Augusta of Europe" for its spell-binding beauty and immaculate condition. Architects Tom Craddock and Pat Ruddy created treacherous water holes on the back nine: The scenic par-3 12th, the brawny par-4 13th, the island green at No. 17 and a cascading waterfall at the par-4 18th. The Woodstock House, which serves as the clubhouse, dates to the 17th century.

Druids Heath, a tougher brute designed by Ruddy in 2003, sits on a wind-swept plateau with panoramic views of the Irish Sea and the Wicklow Mountains. The three-hole stretch of the long par-4 12th, the short par-4 13th and the par-3 15th can make or break a round.