Pollan Links
A true nine-hole par-three links course nestled in Ballyliffin’s dunescape.
Pure Short-Game Links Golf
Ballyliffin Golf Club in County Donegal, Ireland, has opened Pollan Links, a new nine-hole par-three course designed by Pat Ruddy.
Set Within the Dunes
Naturally Routed
The routing makes full use of the 14-acre site, incorporating the natural features of the dunescape while carefully considering safety and the surrounding landscape.
Low-lying areas susceptible to standing water in winter were avoided, ensuring year-round playability and quality conditioning.
Bunkers & Wind
Deep links bunkers provide preparation for the challenges found across the main courses, while varied hole directions bring wind and light into constant play. The course sits at the calm end of the great Ballyliffin dunes, yet still delivers the ever-present elements that define links golf.
The Story Behind Pollan Links
“Care has been taken to vary the directions of the holes to bring into play all the variations of wind and light as well as presenting a rapidly changing and entrancing kaleidoscopic view of the mountains and of the main links, beckoning the player onwards.”
— Pat Ruddy, Designer
Greens Built for Skill
Precision Required
Holes range from 90 to 146 yards, presenting a pure test of distance control, accuracy and imagination. The course accounts for all but the drives and some second shots out on the main links, making it an ideal complement to a full round on The Old Links or Glashedy Links.
Train the Short Game
The greens feature a variety of pin positions to encourage players to practise “pin-seeking” shots, with subtle-to-generous run-off areas that reward creativity and finesse.
All greens are constructed to a scale that would sit comfortably on a full-size links course, maintaining the same championship feel in a shorter format.
