Golf in Iceland: Playing in the Midnight Sun

Iceland's otherworldly landscapes create some of the most extraordinary golf experiences on Earth. From May through August, golfers can tee off under the midnight sun, playing rounds that stretch well past traditional sunset hours against backdrops of volcanic peaks, geothermal vents, and the North Atlantic Ocean. This Nordic island nation offers 65 golf courses, more per capita than almost anywhere else in the world, transforming the ancient Scottish game into something uniquely Arctic.

The Magic of Midnight Golf

During Iceland's summer months, particularly around the summer solstice in late June, daylight extends nearly 24 hours. This phenomenon creates the surreal experience of playing golf at midnight with natural light illuminating every shot. The quality of light shifts throughout these extended "days," casting dramatic shadows across fairways and creating photography opportunities that simply don't exist elsewhere.

The midnight sun season runs from mid-May through early August, with peak conditions from mid-June to mid-July. During this period, sunset doesn't occur until after 11:30 PM, and sunrise begins before 3:00 AM, with a golden twilight bridging the gap. Golf courses remain playable throughout these luminous nights, though many golfers find the experience most magical between 9:00 PM and 2:00 AM.

Premier Courses in Spectacular Settings

Reykjavik Golf Club

The oldest golf club in Iceland, established in 1934, Reykjavik Golf Club sits just 3km from the city centre in the Grafarholt district. This 18-hole, par-71 course offers stunning views across Reykjavik to Mount Esja and Faxaflói Bay. The course measures 5,965 metres from the championship tees and presents a proper test with its strategically placed bunkers and undulating greens shaped by the natural lava landscape.

Green fees range from 8,500 ISK (approximately €60/£50) during peak season, with club rental available for 4,500 ISK. The clubhouse restaurant serves traditional Icelandic cuisine, making it an ideal spot for a post-round meal as the midnight sun bathes the capital in golden light.

Keilir Golf Club

Located 25km southwest of Reykjavik near Keflavik International Airport, Keilir Golf Club offers one of Iceland's most challenging layouts. This championship course, designed by Hannes Þorsteinsson, measures 6,040 metres and plays to par 72. The course's signature feature is its dramatic elevation changes and volcanic rock formations that come into play on several holes.

The 9th hole, a 412-metre par 4, requires a tee shot over a lava field to a fairway that slopes toward the Atlantic Ocean. Green fees are 9,000 ISK during peak midnight sun season, with excellent practice facilities and a clubhouse that stays open until 1:00 AM during summer months.

Westman Islands Golf Club

Perhaps Iceland's most unique golfing venue, Westman Islands Golf Club sits on Heimaey island, 13km off the southern coast. Accessible only by ferry from Landeyjahöfn (35-minute crossing, 1,560 ISK each way), this course offers an adventure that extends far beyond golf.

The 18-hole course, measuring 5,240 metres at par 70, incorporates volcanic terrain from the 1973 Eldfell eruption. Several holes play directly through old lava flows, and the elevated tees on holes 3 and 7 provide panoramic views of the North Atlantic and the mainland's Eyjafjallajökull glacier.

Green fees are surprisingly modest at 6,000 ISK, and the island's Stórhöfði cliffs serve as a dramatic backdrop. Puffins nest in the surrounding areas from May through August, adding wildlife viewing to the golfing experience.

Playing Conditions and Challenges

Iceland's volcanic landscape creates unique playing conditions that challenge even experienced golfers. Lava rock outcroppings serve as natural hazards, and the constant North Atlantic winds demand strategic course management. Wind speeds regularly reach 15-25 km/h, with gusts up to 40 km/h common during unstable weather.

The growing season's brevity means course conditions peak from July through early September. Fairways consist primarily of hardy Arctic grasses that remain firm and fast-running. Greens tend to be smaller than their European counterparts and are often elevated to provide drainage in Iceland's wet climate.

Temperature during golf season ranges from 10-15°C, making layered clothing essential. Waterproof outerwear is mandatory, as weather conditions can change rapidly. Many courses rent complete sets of cold-weather golf gear for visitors.

Practical Planning for Golf Tours

Getting There and Around

Most international visitors fly into Keflavik International Airport, 48km from Reykjavik. Car rental is essential for accessing courses outside the capital area, with vehicles available from 8,000 ISK per day. The Ring Road provides access to regional courses, though some require travel on F-roads that demand 4WD vehicles.

Public transport serves only a few courses near Reykjavik. Bus route 15 reaches Reykjavik Golf Club from the city centre (490 ISK single fare), while other venues require private transport.

Booking and Costs

Advance booking is essential during peak season (June-August). Most courses accept online reservations through their websites, though international visitors often benefit from booking through specialised golf tour operators who can secure preferred tee times and equipment packages.

Total daily costs for serious golf tourism range from 25,000-35,000 ISK when including green fees, equipment rental, transport, and meals. Multi-course packages through operators like Iceland Golf Tours offer better value and logistical support.

Equipment and Clothing

Club rental is available at all major courses for 4,000-6,000 ISK per round. However, serious golfers should consider bringing their own equipment, particularly wedges suited for firm conditions and putters appropriate for grainy Arctic grasses.

Essential clothing includes waterproof jackets, warm layers, and wind-resistant trousers. Golf gloves designed for wet conditions are crucial, as are waterproof golf shoes with excellent traction for potentially slippery volcanic surfaces.

Beyond the Golf Course

Iceland's golf courses serve as gateways to broader adventure activities. Many venues sit near geothermal areas, hiking trails, and cultural sites. The Reykjavik Golf Club provides easy access to the city's museums, restaurants, and nightlife. Westman Islands Golf Club combines with puffin watching, volcano hiking, and the fascinating Eldheimar Museum, which preserves houses buried in the 1973 eruption.

Golf in Iceland transcends the traditional game, offering an adventure that combines sport with some of Earth's most dramatic landscapes. Under the midnight sun, with volcanic peaks silhouetted against an endless sky, each round becomes a journey through one of the world's last great wilderness areas. For golfers seeking something beyond manicured resort courses, Iceland delivers an experience that lingers long after the final putt drops.

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