Glashedy Links at Ballyliffin Golf Club

Glashedy Links is the second of two championship links courses at Ballyliffin Golf Club in County Donegal, situated along Ireland's remote northwestern coast near Malin Head. Designed by Pat Ruddy and Tom Craddock with later refinements by Nick Faldo, the course opened in the mid-1990s and takes its name from Glashedy Rock, a prominent sea stack visible from several holes. The layout occupies dramatic duneland between the older Old Links course and the Atlantic shoreline, offering expansive views across Pollan Bay toward the Inishowen Peninsula's rugged interior.

The routing moves through substantial natural dunes and features significant elevation changes, with several holes playing along elevated ridges that provide panoramic coastal perspectives. The design emphasizes strategic variety, presenting golfers with risk-reward decisions shaped by the tumbling terrain and prevailing winds off the ocean. The par threes are particularly notable for their settings among the dunes, while longer holes demand precise navigation through narrow corridors and thoughtful club selection given the exposed conditions.

Ballyliffin has hosted professional events including the Irish Open and various national championships, raising the profile of both courses at the club. The facility remains relatively accessible compared to more celebrated Irish links venues, drawing visitors who seek authentic duneland golf in a remote setting. The clubhouse serves traditional fare and the atmosphere reflects the unpretentious character of this corner of Donegal, where golf exists within a working coastal community rather than as resort amenity.