Ballyliffin Golf Club – Championship Links Golf in County Donegal

Overview

Ballyliffin Golf Club is one of Ireland’s most impressive links destinations, located on the remote and rugged Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal. Home to two championship links courses — The Old Links and The Glashedy Links — Ballyliffin is widely praised for its world-class layouts, spectacular dune systems, pristine conditioning and dramatic Atlantic scenery. It is regarded as one of the finest 36-hole links complexes in Europe.

The Old Links, originally laid out in 1947 and later refined by Nick Faldo, is a classic, traditional links that ripples naturally over ancient dune land. With rolling fairways, subtle contours, perfectly natural routing and ever-present coastal winds, it provides a pure and timeless links experience. Its understated elegance and authentic character make it a favourite among links purists.

The Glashedy Links, designed by Pat Ruddy and Tom Craddock, is a modern championship course known for its dramatic scale, elevated tees, deep bunkering and spectacular views of Glashedy Rock. The layout is bold and challenging, stretching over 7,200 yards from the back tees and offering a thrilling test for elite players. It has hosted major events including the 2018 Dubai Duty Free Irish Open, showcasing its ability to challenge world-class fields.

Both courses offer firm, fast fairways, true greens and immaculate presentation year-round. The surrounding dune landscape is among the largest and most visually striking in Ireland, creating a sense of isolation and grandeur throughout the round. Panoramic views of beaches, mountains and the Atlantic Ocean elevate the experience even further.

The clubhouse provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere with excellent dining, panoramic course views and the friendly Irish hospitality for which Donegal is famous. Practice facilities include a full driving range, short-game areas and putting greens, making it easy for golfers to warm up before taking on either links.

Ballyliffin is one of the most complete and inspiring links destinations in Ireland, offering a blend of tradition, modern championship design, stunning scenery and world-class playability — all in one unforgettable location.