DG IRELAND TOP150 2023 – Editor, Kevin Markham
Bunclody Golf Club
One of Ireland’s newest golf courses, Bunclody opened in 2009. It is set on the Hall-Dare Estate and your introduction to the course is a stunning tree-lined drive of ancient trees, coasting alongside the River Slaney. Pay attention as the river comes in to play on four holes, most dramatically on the par four 16th, where the river shadows the fairway from tee to green. Bunclody has superb facilities, including a thatched, circular clubhouse, and two distinctive sets of holes. An open, gentle hillside is home to nine holes, where trees are maturing quickly, but there’s no doubt that golfers will be salivating over the other nine. Set in deep woods and beside the river these include the closing five holes which promise a thrilling finish… including that famous lift to the 18th tee.
Designed by Jeff Howes, you can expect a quality course and one that continues to grow in reputation all the time. It is generous off the tee and golfers who like to flash the driver will be in their element.
Favourite Hole
The lone tree in the centre of the par four 15th fairway
is a striking target from the high tee. A small stream
runs diagonally across the front of the green.
What’s in the Bag?
It is hard to attack greens when you’re offline
the bunkering sees to that – so stay straight or aim for
the parts of the big greens which are accessible.