FINLAND

Golf in Finland: Midnight Sun and Arctic Fairways

Golf in Finland is a unique blend of pristine nature, extreme seasonal contrasts, and a rapidly growing passion for the sport, with historical roots tracing back to the early 20th century when the first course, Helsinki Golf Club, was established in 1932 by British expatriates.

The sport gained momentum post-WWII, with Finnish architects like Aki Hintikka shaping modern layouts that embrace the country’s rugged terrain and vast forests.

Key regions include the Helsinki Metropolitan Area, home to urban courses like Kytäjä Golf’s two 18-hole championship layouts designed by Timo Nyyssönen; the Lakeland District, where courses like Vierumäki Resort blend water hazards with dense woodlands; and Lapland, offering surreal Arctic golf experiences under the Midnight Sun at places like Ruka Golf.

Signature courses include Linna Golf in Hämeenlinna, a Timo Nyyssönen-designed course known for its undulating fairways and hosting the European Challenge Tour; Kytäjä Golf’s South Course, featuring dramatic elevation changes and deep bunkers; and the Arctic Golf Club in Rovaniemi, the world’s northernmost 18-hole course, designed by Jan Söderberg with reindeer occasionally roaming the fairways.

Player development thrives through junior programs like the Finnish Golf Union’s grassroots initiatives, producing talents like Tapio Pulkkanen, a European Tour winner, and Sanna Nuutinen, a multiple LET champion.

Tourism peaks from May to September, with summer packages combining golf at Vierumäki with sauna sessions and lake cruises, while winter golf on snow-covered courses attracts adventurous players.

Sustainability efforts are strong, with courses like Helsinki Golf Club using solar-powered carts and organic turf management, while wildlife protection zones are common in forested courses.

Future projects include the expansion of the Arctic Golf Club and Finland’s bid to host the 2026 European Amateur Team Championship.

Finnish golf culture embraces a relaxed dress code, with clubs often encouraging casual attire, reflecting the country’s egalitarian ethos..