When I drove up to the charming gatehouse at Doonbeg, with a fire within, and saw the massive stone walls of the estate, I immediately imagined another painstaking restoration such as the one undergone by Ballyfin a decade ago.  Doonbeg, however, is actually a new construction, overseen by Kiawah Golf Partners, and meticulously designed to blend into the existing landscape and atmosphere.  More often than not, guests assume as I did that a restoration of an old castle has taken place, and they are surprised to learn that an American firm is responsible for the resort.  Whether new or old, Doonbeg is wonderfully hospitable.  Rooms have working fireplaces, umbrellas and boots wait for anyone in need of them, and the bartender at Darby’s Pub is always happy to teach guests how to pour a Guinness.  While there, I was lucky enough to spend some time with Brian, the golf pro, who shared some wonderful stories of life in Ireland, and with Seamus, the property’s Assistant General Manager.  Doonbeg is a favorite with golfers, and pictures of its course designer Greg Norman, are scattered throughout the resort.  Greg Norman is renowned for his challenging courses, and a tour of the 18 holes at Doonbeg will do nothing to undermine that reputation.  The photograph of me as I stand in the sand trap adjacent to the 14th green was taken on a chilly late winter day when few were braving the links, but its sheer size evokes images of frustrated golfers trying to chip their way back into the light.  Doonbeg is a warm, confortable, and luxurious stop for golfers and non-golfers alike, and I look forward to bringing clients there in the near future … and to returning myself.