Finland might not be the first destination golfers think of, but that’s exactly why it feels so refreshing. Known as the “Land of a Thousand Lakes,” this country offers more than 130 golf courses set against some of Europe’s most pristine landscapes. The courses are designed to harmonise with their surroundings, blending fairways into pine forests, granite rock formations, and sparkling waters. Unlike traditional golf hotspots in Southern Europe, Finland delivers quiet, uncrowded rounds and a sense of being truly immersed in nature. The main golf season stretches from May to September, but depending on where you play, the experience can vary dramatically — from mild evenings on the southern coast to crisp mornings in Lapland.
Kytäjä Golf – Championship Quality Near Helsinki
Just an hour north of the capital, Kytäjä Golf is regarded as Finland’s finest club and one of the best in Scandinavia. Designed by Canadian architect Thomas McBroom, its two 18-hole layouts offer a mix of beauty and challenge. The South East Course winds dramatically through ridges and lakes, offering views that make every hole memorable. The North West Course is a true championship test, hosting European Challenge Tour events and pushing golfers to bring their very best. Kytäjä combines striking natural landscapes with first-class conditioning, making it a must-play for anyone visiting Finland.
Linna Golf – A Castle Setting with Sustainability
Located in Hämeenlinna, Linna Golf sits within the grounds of a historic castle estate, giving the course a truly unique backdrop. It’s the only GEO-certified course in Finland, a recognition of its commitment to sustainability and environmental care. Linna Golf has hosted European Tour events and is praised for its fair but strategic layout. Wide fairways invite attacking play, while greens are well-protected and demand precision. The elegant setting and eco-friendly approach make it both luxurious and forward-thinking.
Aura Golf – A Piece of Finnish Golf History
For those who enjoy tradition, Aura Golf in Turku offers a walk through Finnish golf history. Established in 1911, it is one of the country’s oldest clubs and remains a favourite among locals. The course has a classic parkland character, with tree-lined fairways and a serene atmosphere. While not as long or modern as newer venues, its heritage and charm make it a rewarding stop, particularly for golfers who want to experience the roots of the game in Finland.
Tahko Golf – Resort Play in Central Finland
In central Finland, Tahko Golf blends challenging play with a resort-style atmosphere. The two 18-hole courses are set around a beautiful lakeside environment, making it a popular destination for families and groups. Beyond golf, Tahko offers holiday cottages, spas, and year-round outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing. For golfers looking to combine the sport with a broader Finnish holiday experience, Tahko delivers variety and relaxation in equal measure.
The Magic of the Midnight Sun and Snow Golf
One of the most unique aspects of golfing in Finland is its extreme seasonal light. In summer, the midnight sun creates a surreal atmosphere where golfers can play until late at night, often finishing their rounds under golden skies at 11 p.m. or later. This phenomenon turns every round into a memory, as the horizon never fully darkens. In winter, golf transforms into an entirely different experience. Courses like Levi Golf in Lapland host “snow golf,” where players use brightly colored balls on snow-packed fairways and putt on icy “whites” instead of greens. It’s playful, challenging, and one of the few places in the world where golf is truly a four-season sport.
Beyond the Fairways: Culture and Adventure
A trip to Finland isn’t just about golf — it’s also about what happens off the course. In Helsinki, golfers can enjoy a vibrant mix of modern design, lively food markets, and cultural landmarks such as the UNESCO-listed Suomenlinna Fortress, accessible by a short ferry ride. Beyond the capital, the Lakeland region provides a completely different rhythm. With tens of thousands of lakes, visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, or simply relaxing in a traditional lakeside cottage. Saunas — an integral part of Finnish culture — are the perfect way to unwind after a day on the fairways, and many courses or hotels include them as part of the experience. Further north, in Lapland, golf can be combined with a taste of Arctic adventure: reindeer herding, husky safaris, encounters with Sami culture, and in autumn, the chance to witness the ethereal Northern Lights.
Expanding Your Nordic Golf Journey
One of Finland’s biggest advantages is its location, making it easy to expand your trip beyond the country’s borders. A short two-hour ferry from Helsinki takes you to Tallinn, Estonia, home to the Estonian Golf & Country Club, a stunning venue overlooking the Gulf of Finland. To the west, Sweden’s coast is a quick flight away, with Bro Hof Slott Golf Club near Stockholm regularly ranked among the best in Europe for its championship design and dramatic lakeside setting. For those seeking variety, Finland can serve as a central hub for a broader Nordic golf adventure, combining different landscapes, cultures, and styles of play in one journey.
Why Choose Finland for Your Next Golf Holiday
What sets Finland apart as a golf destination is not just the quality of its courses, but the atmosphere that surrounds them. Imagine finishing a round under the midnight sun, then stepping into a warm sauna, followed by a refreshing dip in a crystal-clear lake. Picture playing snow golf with reindeer roaming in the distance. Here, golf is intertwined with nature and culture, offering a holistic travel experience that extends far beyond the game. A golf trip to Finland is not about chasing birdies alone — it’s about discovering a country where every round feels like an adventure, and where the memories you take home are just as rewarding as the scorecard.
