The Old Course at Ballybunion is a wonderful experience and it should be on any golfer's "must play" list. It's not hard to figure out why many of the top players in the world speak so highly of it. I would return in a heartbeat.

The first 5 holes are nice but when you get to the ocean, the journey really begins as you wind your way through the grassy dunes on an enjoyable diversity of holes. You get a real since of golf history and appreciation for the game.

The only drawback was our caddy. He knew the game and course but was an immature young adult. But, even he couldn't spoil our experience.

My only regret was that we didn't plan for a second round. I will the next time.

Yes, the course has stunnling scenery and is a challenge for all. Worth the experience....BUT.....we faced a caddie master who insisted we go off 15 minutes befoe our scheduled tee time. We paid a year in advance. We had no time to use the range (5 Euro charge for a bucket) and approached the first tee in a frantic rush. Our caddie had a terrible attitude!!! He used the F word throughout the round in the presence of women, used his cell phone incessantly, often didn't bother to follow tee shots, was terrible at finding balls in the rough, and gave intentionally bad reads on the greens. He was 31 years of age and we were told "experienced". We waited on every tee box and the round took over 5 hours. We were told that the reason was 50 French golfers ahead of us who refused caddies. Why was this allowed at the expense of the rest of the field??? The almighty dollar is the answer.
If you can't visit all the storied courses in southwest Ireland, stick to Tralee, Waterville, Old Head.....they couldn't be nicer and more accomodating there.
We played Ballybunion on 6/23/06.

Fantastic golf course. The views are out of this world, somewhat like Pebble Beach in Northern California. Ballybunnion course can be windy and unforgiving. Watch your slices and hooks as fairways are narrow in places and the grass is long outside the fairways.

Club House is nice. Lots of history and portraits of legends who have played there. Lovely views. Food and drink are basic, but quality is excellent. I've been there several times and staff could not do enough for you. They are fantastic.

Excellent course in pristine condition always. There is an old saying that rain is like champagne to a links course and this is true of Ballybunnion Golf Club. Excellent food, very friendly staff, course was tough but very fair. A challange to all levels of golfers.