Barnbougle Dunes

Barnbougle Dunes is a world-class links golf course on Tasmania's north-east coast, consistently ranked among the planet's finest. Carved into dramatic sand dunes overlooking Bass Strait, this Tom Doak-designed masterpiece offers a pure, walking-only golf experience that feels as wild and elemental as the surrounding landscape. Even if you don't play, the raw coastal beauty is worth the drive.

Highlights & What to See

• Barnbougle Dunes Golf Course: The main attraction – a 18-hole links that weaves through towering dunes, with ocean views from almost every hole. The wind and firm, fast fairways demand strategy, not just power.
• Barnbougle Lost Farm: A second 18-hole course designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, with even more dramatic dune ridges and coastal vistas. It's a worthy companion to the original.
• Coastal Walks: The beach and dune system around the courses are open to the public. A walk along the wild, windswept shore or a scramble over the sand hills offers stunning views of the courses and the Bass Strait.
• Pro Shop & Clubhouse: The modern clubhouse has a relaxed bar and restaurant with local produce and panoramic views. It's a great spot for a post-round beer or lunch, even if you're not playing.
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wallabies, eagles, and sea birds that call this coastal heath home.

Suggested Time to Spend

If you're a golfer, plan a full day – ideally two – to play both courses (each round takes around 4–5 hours). Non-golfers can enjoy the coastal walks and clubhouse in a couple of hours. The drive from Launceston is about 1 hour 15 minutes, so it's doable as a day trip, but staying overnight in the on-site accommodation (Bridport is the nearest town) lets you soak up the full experience.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bridport: A charming coastal town just 10 minutes away, with a lovely beach, fishing spots, and cafes.
• Cataract Gorge: Launceston's stunning natural wonder – a dramatic river gorge with walking trails, a chairlift, and swimming. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon before or after your golf trip.
• Low Head: Historic lighthouse and penguin colony, about 30 minutes west of Barnbougle.
• Pipers Brook Wine Region: Tasmania's premier wine area, with cellar doors like Jansz and Pipers Brook Vineyard, around 40 minutes south.
• Launceston: The base city for the region, with excellent restaurants, museums, and the Tamar Valley wine route.

Please check official sources for current details.