The Nordic countries are among the most golf-mad in Europe. Sweden and Denmark in particular have large numbers of courses and golfers, and the long summer days mean you can tee off late in the evening, or even at midnight in the far north. Courses range from links on the North Sea to forest and lakeside layouts, fjord-side holes in Norway and courses among lava fields in Iceland.
Sweden
- Skåne (the far south): a large number of courses, including links-style courses on the coast, within easy reach of Copenhagen and Malmö.
- The west coast: courses around Gothenburg and along the rocky coastline.
- Stockholm and the archipelago: courses among forests, lakes and islands.
- The north: midnight-sun golf in midsummer.
Denmark
- Jutland's west coast: links among dunes and heather along the North Sea.
- Zealand and Copenhagen: parkland and coastal courses near the capital.
- The islands: quiet courses on Funen and smaller islands.
Norway
Courses near Oslo, Bergen and along the fjords offer dramatic scenery, though the season is short and many courses are hilly.
Finland
Finland has courses among lakes and forests, around Helsinki and the lake district, with long summer days.
Iceland
Iceland's courses are set among lava fields, mountains and the sea. In midsummer, it never gets dark, and some courses host midnight golf. Read unusual golf experiences.
When to go
| Months | Conditions |
|---|---|
| May | Courses opening; cool, fresh days |
| June to July | Longest days; midnight sun in the north |
| August | Warm, still long days |
| September | Quieter, cooler; season ending in the north |
Practical tips
- Handicap: many clubs require a handicap certificate. Read the World Handicap System explained.
- Booking: many clubs use online booking systems; book ahead in peak summer. Read how to book tee times.
- Weather: pack layers and waterproofs. Read our golf rain gear guide.
- Late tee times: take advantage of the long evenings.
- Costs: green fees are often reasonable, though general travel costs can be high.
Playing tips
- Links: keep the ball low in the wind. Read how to play golf in the wind.
- Forest courses: accuracy matters. Read golf course management.
- Cool temperatures: the ball flies shorter. Read winter golf.
Frequently asked questions
Can you play golf at midnight in Scandinavia?
Yes, in the far north of Sweden, Norway, Finland and in Iceland around midsummer.
Is golf popular in Sweden?
Very. Sweden has one of the highest numbers of golfers per person in Europe.
When is the golf season in Scandinavia?
Roughly May to September.
Is Denmark good for links golf?
Yes, especially on Jutland's North Sea coast.
The bottom line
Scandinavia offers uncrowded golf, long summer evenings, links and forest courses and the unforgettable experience of midnight-sun golf. Travel between June and August, carry your handicap details and pack for changeable weather. For more European ideas, read best-value golf in Europe.