Golfing in the Baltic States: A Hidden Gem in Northern Europe
All Square 5min read •
9 Jun
When most golfers dream of scenic rounds abroad, their minds drift to the windswept coasts of Scotland or the sun-drenched fairways of Spain. But for the traveller with a taste for the road less travelled, the Baltic States — Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania — offer a surprisingly rich and refreshing golfing experience. Nestled between the Baltic Sea and the vast boreal forests of Northern Europe, these countries blend medieval charm, untouched nature, and a rising golf culture that’s quietly making waves among adventurous players.
A Region on the Rise
While golf is still a developing sport in the Baltics compared to traditional European powerhouses, the past two decades have seen a rapid transformation. Modern courses designed by world-class architects, affordable green fees, and low crowd density are just part of the appeal. Combine that with rich history, elegant capital cities, and pristine natural settings, and you have a destination that feels both exclusive and authentic.
Estonia leads the Baltic pack in terms of golf development, and Estonian Golf & Country Club, just 25 minutes from Tallinn, is its flagship course. Situated along the Baltic coast, this 27-hole facility features both the 18-hole Sea Course — designed by Lassi Pekka Tilander and regularly ranked among Europe’s top 100 — and a 9-hole Stone Course, set among ancient boulders and forest. The Sea Course hosted the European Men’s Team Championship in 2019, signalling its growing international recognition.
Another standout is Pärnu Bay Golf Links, a modern seaside course south of Tallinn designed by Lassi Pekka Tilander and Mick McShane, known for his work at Kingsbarns in Scotland. With wide fairways, coastal breezes, and a stunning clubhouse, it offers a premium links experience with a distinctly Nordic character.
Beyond golf, Estonia enchants with fairy-tale towns, digital innovation, and national parks like Lahemaa, where moose, lynx, and ancient manor houses await discovery.
Latvia: Elegant Courses and a Touch of Old-World Charm
Latvia, with its central hub in Riga, offers a more boutique golfing experience but is no less captivating. Just 30 minutes from the capital lies Ozo Golf Club, the first 18-hole course in the country, backed by Latvian ice hockey legend Sandis Ozoliņš. Framed by Lake Ķīšezers, Ozo features undulating fairways, modern facilities, and a strong competitive scene — it’s often the venue for national championships.
Another emerging destination is Jurmala Golf Club & Hotel, designed by world-renowned architect Nicklaus Design. This championship course sits in a tranquil pine forest near the sandy beaches of Jurmala, one of the Baltics’ premier resort towns. With its wide fairways, sculpted bunkers, and water hazards, it balances challenge and beauty while offering high-end amenities on-site.
Off the course, Latvia’s vibrant cultural scene comes alive in Riga’s art nouveau architecture, live jazz bars, and the UNESCO-listed Old Town. The countryside is dotted with castles, rivers, and spa towns, making it ideal for golf travellers looking to combine sport with relaxation.
Lithuania: A Quiet Contender with Big Potential
Lithuania might be the smallest golf market of the three, but it’s steadily carving its place in the region’s golf map. European Center Golf Club, located near Vilnius (close to the geographical center of Europe), offers a scenic and strategically designed 18-hole course with panoramic views and abundant wildlife. Though still developing its infrastructure compared to its Baltic neighbours, it provides a tranquil, nature-rich setting with few crowds—perfect for golfers seeking solitude and focus.
Meanwhile, the National Golf Resort near Klaipėda is gaining attention for its riverside layout, excellent practice facilities, and professional tournaments hosted on-site. Its blend of inland and links-style features makes it both beginner-friendly and intriguing for seasoned players.
Lithuania also charms visitors with its baroque architecture, hilltop castles like Trakai, and unique cuisine that blends Slavic, Nordic, and German influences. The capital, Vilnius, with its bohemian energy, medieval streets, and affordable luxury, is a perfect base for any golf holiday.
More Than Just Golf
One of the most compelling aspects of golfing in the Baltic States is the immersive cultural experience that accompanies it. These countries offer an intriguing fusion of East and West, old and new. Here, you can start your morning with a round on a world-class golf course, then spend the afternoon wandering through cobblestone alleys or enjoying a sauna by a lakeside cabin.
Travelling between the three countries is effortless, with good road and rail infrastructure and short flights or ferries across the region. For golfers seeking variety, it’s entirely possible to play courses in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in a single trip — each offering its flavour of design, hospitality, and landscape.
A Hidden Haven Worth Discovering
The Baltics may not have the fame of St Andrews or the sun of the Algarve, but what they offer is arguably rare: authenticity, peace, and the joy of discovery. Here, you won’t find long lines at tee times or inflated green fees. Instead, you’ll find welcoming clubs, beautifully maintained courses, and a golf scene still in its exciting early bloom.
For those with a taste for new frontiers — and a set of clubs ready for adventure — golfing in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania is a journey well worth taking.
