Golf in Iceland
Date
02. Mar 202602. Mar 26
Reading time
2 min
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You probably know Iceland for its volcanoes, its glaciers, and its waterfalls. Maybe for its hot pools and puffins too. But did you know that within this picturesque scenery and unique environment are 65 pockets of golfing heaven?
You can find golf courses all over Iceland in the most breathtaking locations – neighboring natural geysers, surrounded by lava fields, and even offering spectacular views over nearby glaciers. That’s all before we talk about the unique opportunity to play golf under the midnight sun, one of the most popular golfing experiences in Iceland.
“You can play midnight golf in Iceland between early June and the later part of July”
Golf in Iceland – FAQ
Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered.
Very popular! According to public surveys, about 45,000 individuals play golf in Iceland every year. That’s close to 12% of the Icelandic population (which totals approximately 395,000).
There are currently 65 golf courses across the country; 15 are 18-hole golf courses. All of the courses are open to visitors.
As follows the population spread, 10 of these golf courses are in the Reykjavík area. Five of these are 18-hole.
The golf season in Iceland generally runs from late May to early September. That’s when the weather should generally be cooperative, and the daylight hours are long.
Read more about the seasons in Iceland, including what average temperatures and daylight hours to expect for each month, in our blog covering the best times to visit Iceland.
The phenomenon of the midnight sun brings 24-hour daylight for a few weeks either side of the June 21 summer solstice. This means that you can play midnight golf in Iceland between early June and the later part of July.
The North Iceland town of Akureyri (population around 18,000) is known for its annual midnight sun golf tournament, open to amateurs and professionals.
Many golf courses around Iceland allow tee time bookings through the night during the weeks when the midnight sun illuminates the sky.
When golfing in Iceland, it’s definitely a good idea to pack your all-weather gear! Waterproofs are recommended.
Golf equipment such as trollies are usually for hire at the 18-hole golf courses. Golf carts and clubs are available for hire at the courses in the greater Reykjavík area but are less common out in the countryside.
With Icelandair, it’s easy to bring your own golf clubs with you. Your golf equipment can count toward your baggage allowance or be added as an odd-size item. You can also add golf clubs to your baggage after making a booking, using the Manage booking function on our website and app.
Golf under the midnight sun in Akureyri.
The most underrated golf destination in the world?
We partnered with Manors Golf to shine a spotlight on Iceland’s golf culture – as rugged, resilient, and breathtaking as the land itself. Watch and learn, then start planning a golf trip to remember!
Where are the best golf courses in Iceland? And the most unique?
Whether you’re planning an Iceland golf trip or stopping over on your way between Europe and North America, there’s no shortage of courses to choose from and try out. Iceland boasts a range of challenging, unique, and quirky courses that are great for keen golfers and beginners alike.
We list some of the best golf courses in Iceland below to help you narrow down your options. You’ll find more information on each course’s website, and on the general Golf in Iceland site, which has useful details on green fees, clubhouse facilities, and so on.
Golf courses in Iceland
Our favorite courses
Keilir Golf Course
Keilir Golf Course
18 holes, Hafnarfjörður
The top-ranked golf course in Iceland is Hvaleyrarvöllur at Keilir Golf Club in Hafnarfjörður, just outside Reykjavík. Conveniently located a 25-minute drive from Keflavík airport, this 18-hole links course is renowned amongst golf enthusiasts for its incredible environment.
The first nine holes feature enclosed patches of bright green fairway that starkly contrast against the surrounding black rocks, with part of the course constructed over lava fields.
The back nine holes, however, were built on old farmland on a peninsula at the entrance to the Hafnarfjörður harbor, with surrounding water bringing a test of golfers’ skill. From this part of the course golfers can enjoy spectacular views of the nearby Álftanes peninsula and the distant Snæfellsjökull glacier.
The Hvaleyrarvöllur course focuses on skill and accuracy over swing power and distance, and is perfect for those seeking an exciting golfing challenge – just watch out for the lava fields!
Brautarholt Golf Course
Brautarholt Golf Course
18 holes, Reykjavík
Another highly ranked option, Brautarholt Golf Course features as the top golf course in Iceland according to Golf World’s Top 100 list, with the description: “Jaw-dropping beauty, but that is very much standard for Iceland!”
Located on a peninsula outside Reykjavík with spectacular ocean views on nearly every hole, Brautarholt is known for its sustainable design, blending harmoniously with the natural terrain, and offers a unique experience of coastal golf. There’s a traveler-friendly option to arrange a game and hotel transfers from Reykjavík.
Vestmannaeyjar Golf Course
Vestmannaeyjar Golf Course
18 holes, Vestmannaeyjar
Vestmannaeyjar are a group of volcanic islands that lie off the south coast of Iceland, and are sometimes known in English as the Westman Islands. They’re reached by a ferry that operates several times daily.
The super-scenic Vestmannaeyjar course provides a truly unique experience, lying between an extinct volcano and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s renowned as one of the world’s most dramatic island courses, with puffins often spotted along the cliffs. It’s home to the Volcano Open Golf Championship, which attracts golfers from all over the world in early July.
Akureyri Golf Course
Akureyri Golf Course
18 holes, Akureyri
As one of the northernmost 18-hole courses in the world, Akureyri Golf Course features forested fairways with a backdrop of snowcapped mountains.
It hosts the annual Arctic Open each June, a 36-hole tournament that gives golfers the rare chance to play under the glow of summer’s perpetual daylight.
Other notable courses
Other notable courses
Hlíðavöllur Golf Course
18 holes, Mosfellsbær
Just outside Reykjavík, Hlíðavöllur is situated on the edge of Kollafjörður bay with the dramatic Esja mountain as its backdrop. Its open layout and long, undulating greens make it both scenic and a test of skill, particularly with the unpredictable Icelandic winds. There’s a popular clubhouse with good dining here.
Geysir Golf Course
9 holes, Haukadalur Valley
The Geysir Golf Course is a literal hot spot! This nine-hole course lies close to the Geysir geothermal area on Iceland’s renowned Golden Circle. The scenic backdrop of steaming geysers and rugged terrain makes for a memorable round in a uniquely Icelandic setting.
Höfn Golf Course
9 holes, Höfn
Located close to the icy behemoth that is Vatnajökull glacier, the Höfn Golf Course (also known as Silfurnesvöllur) offers incredible views of glacier tongues and surrounding mountains. It’s a small but scenic nine-hole course that gives golfers a peaceful, remote experience in southeastern Iceland.
Siglufjörður Golf Course
9 holes, Siglufjörður
In the scenic North Iceland town of Siglufjörður, the Sigló course is surrounded by towering mountains and the sea. Its tight layout and dramatic scenery make it a favorite for those seeking an intimate and scenic golf experience.
Plan a golfing trip to Iceland
Most golf courses in Iceland are easily reachable from major towns and cities. Driving is a popular way to get around, but Icelandair’s network of domestic flights makes it easy for you to travel from Reykjavík to golfing hotspots like Akureyri.
We also offer regular flights to Egilsstaðir in East Iceland and Ísafjörður in the Westfjords, unlocking even more access to unique golf – and sightseeing – experiences.
