Ballybunion Golf Club | Old Course
Ballybunion Golf Club | Old Course
For many, a pilgrimage to Ireland begins at Ballybunion. The Old Course is a windswept, untamed links where nature reigns supreme and golf feels as raw and exhilarating as the day it was born. From the moment you stand on the first tee, the Atlantic air and towering dunes signal you are about to experience one of the purest tests of links golf anywhere in the world.
The front nine lulls you with charm—rolling fairways and elevated views of the sea—before the back nine unleashes its true brilliance. Holes 11 through 15, weaving through colossal dunes and skirting the cliffs, are among the finest stretches of links golf in existence. The 11th, a long par 4 perched precariously along the edge of the ocean, is as unforgettable as it is demanding.
Ballybunion does not yield easily; its beauty is matched only by its bite. The ever-present Atlantic winds, pot bunkers, and contoured greens test even the most skilled players. Yet, in every challenge lies the reason golfers return again and again—Ballybunion is both humbling and exhilarating, offering golf at its most authentic.
At Cypress & Salt, we craft itineraries that highlight Ballybunion’s unique character. From private stays in nearby seaside lodges to evenings of traditional Irish music and cuisine, we ensure your visit captures both the rugged essence of links golf and the warmth of Ireland’s hospitality. Ballybunion is not just a round—it’s a story etched into the soul of the game.
Course Stats
Par: 71
Yardage: 6,802 yards
Course Rating: 74.2
Slope Rating: 138
Designer: Tom Simpson (1936), evolved from original design (1893)
Type: True Links
Signature Holes: 11th (par 4, cliffside), 15th (par 3, through dunes)
Championships: Hosted Irish Open (2000), frequent top-20 World Rankings
Best Seasons to Play
May – September offers the best balance of long daylight hours, firm running conditions, and the least rainfall.
July & August provide peak links weather with stunning coastal views (though with more crowds).
April & October can be rewarding for those seeking value and quieter tee sheets, but be prepared for wilder weather.
