It’s pretty cool to have a golf course that straddles two countries – which, in this case, is Sweden and Finland. That literally means that you tee off in one and land in the other – no big deal. Add in two different time zones, and it’s a next-level quirky golf course.
Quirky Golf Course
Clubs, balls, glove, cap…and passport? At Lapland’s Green Zone Golf Course, one round of golf will take you to two countries. Laid out on both sides of the River Tornio by Ake Persson in 1987, the 18-hole course straddles the natural border between Sweden and Finland.
There’s no obvious border, of course. Four pedestrian bridges criss-cross the river, so golfers move freely between the two Nordic nations. Each green is decorated with both country flags—11 on Swedish soil and seven in Finland.
Hit One Back to the Future
The sixth hole is the signature hole, known as the world’s “Longest Hole in One.” You can technically hit a ball that will land an hour after you hit it. And, because the international time zone divides several holes on the course, you get a few shots at that conversation starter. Feeling a bit confused? Finland is ahead of Sweden by one hour.
Tee Off in the Midnight Sun
In the Land of the Midnight Sun, there’s nonstop daylight, so golfers can play 24 hours a day. The most enthusiastic golfer storytellers can sign up for the club’s “Midnight Sun 90 Hole Golf Event.” It’s a challenging marathon tournament held over four days and three nights in late June. Afterwards, a Finnish sauna sounds just about right.
Summertime in Lapland
Known for extensive wilderness, Lapland has summer activities including reindeer farm visits, photography hikes, canoeing, and traditional sauna boat experiences. About 75 miles from the golf course, book Arctic TreeHouse Hotel and restaurant, Rakas. Deep in a pine forest, cozy guest suites have floor-to-ceiling windows to take in the sights and scents of the Nordic woodlands.
With a 30-minute drive, the Hidden Arctic Cloud Villas have easy access to a serene lake. They can hold up to six guests per villa, and are looked after by a private host with a vehicle. Plus, a professional private chef and catering team.
Alternatively, reserve accommodation at Aino, a luxury private island hotel exclusive for adult guests. Choose a private villa or one of the 11 rooms and suites on the Kemijoki river banks near Rovaniemi, the heart of Lapland. Sample simple, tasty, authentic Lappish food around the big fire pit at Vuo Restaurant. Exclusively for guests, daily breakfast and dinner are included.
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FAQs
Q: Is Lapland in Finland?
A: Lapland is a region within the Arctic Circle covering northern parts of Sweden, Norway, Finland, and the Kola Peninsula in Russia.
Q: During which months does the midnight sun occur?
A: In Lapland, from late May to mid-July, the sun stays above the horizon for 24 hours a day.
Q: Is Green Zone Golf open to the public?
A: Yes, Green Zone Golf is open to the public. Anyone can book their “time travel” golf experience at Green Zone Golf.
