Golf Courses in Iceland: A Comprehensive List

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Quick Answer

• You’ll find about 16 golf courses dotted across Iceland.
• Prepare for seriously stunning scenery and some wild playing conditions.
• It’s a compact golf scene, but the experience is anything but ordinary.

Who This Is For

• Golfers looking to add a truly unique destination to their bucket list.
• Travelers who want to blend their love for the links with Iceland’s incredible natural wonders.

What to Check First

• Operating Seasonality: This is huge. Most Icelandic courses are highly seasonal, typically open from late May/early June to September/October. Don’t plan a winter golf trip unless you’re looking for a very different kind of challenge.
• Green Fees and Booking: Costs can vary quite a bit. Some are quite reasonable, others are on the higher end. Always check the specific course website for current rates and how to book. Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way about showing up without a tee time.
• Course Conditions and Style: Expect a mix. You’ll find some parkland courses and definitely some links-style layouts, often with a dramatic, rugged Icelandic twist. Wind is almost always a factor.
• Rental Availability: Need clubs or a golf cart? Check if the course offers them and if you need to reserve them in advance. Not all courses have extensive rental fleets.

Planning Your Iceland Golf Course Experience

Getting your game on in the land of fire and ice requires a little prep. Here’s how to make it happen without a hitch.

1. Research Available Golf Courses in Iceland.

• Action: Start with a broad online search for “golf courses Iceland” or “Iceland golf clubs.”
• What to look for: A list of courses, their general locations (e.g., Reykjavik, Akureyri, Westfjords), and any initial descriptions. This gives you the lay of the land.
• Mistake to avoid: Relying on outdated or incomplete lists. While the scene is small, new courses can pop up, or existing ones might change management or availability. Always cross-reference.

2. Confirm Course Operating Seasons.

• Action: Dive into the official website of each course that catches your eye.
• What to look for: Specific opening and closing dates. This is crucial. Most courses are completely shut down during the winter months.
• Mistake to avoid: Assuming a course is playable just because it’s listed online. I once planned a trip around a specific course only to find out it had a very short season and I’d missed it by a week. Major bummer.

3. Verify Green Fees and Booking Procedures.

• Action: Navigate to the “Rates,” “Green Fees,” or “Book Tee Time” sections on their websites.
• What to look for: The cost for an 18-hole round and the exact process for reserving your slot. Some might have online booking, others require a phone call.
• Mistake to avoid: Not checking fees in advance. Some courses, especially those with prime locations or unique features, can command higher prices. You don’t want sticker shock when you’re ready to play.

4. Assess Course Strategy and Conditions.

• Action: Read course reviews, look at photos, or check for detailed course descriptions that mention terrain and typical playing conditions.
• What to look for: Information about the prevailing wind, the type of terrain (links, parkland, volcanic rock formations), and any specific holes or features that are known for being challenging or memorable.
• Mistake to avoid: Expecting perfectly manicured fairways and greens like you might find at a resort in a warmer climate. Embrace the wildness! Icelandic courses often blend seamlessly with their environment, which means natural hazards and less predictable conditions.

5. Confirm Rental Availability (Clubs & Carts).

• Action: Check the course’s “Amenities” section or contact the pro shop directly via email or phone.
• What to look for: Whether they offer rental clubs (and what kind) and if golf carts are available. Some courses might be more walking-friendly or have limited cart options.
• Mistake to avoid: Arriving at the course expecting to rent clubs, only to find they have none available or that all rentals are already booked. If you can, bringing your own clubs is often the safest bet, but always confirm rentals if you’re traveling light.

6. Book Your Tee Times.

• Action: Use the course’s online booking system or make a direct phone call to the pro shop.
• What to look for: Available tee time slots that fit your planned itinerary. Be flexible if possible, especially during peak season.
• Mistake to avoid: Waiting too long to book. Iceland’s golf season is relatively short, and popular courses, especially those near Reykjavik or with spectacular views, can fill up weeks or even months in advance during the summer months.

How Many Golf Courses in Iceland?

• Mistake: Assuming all golf courses in Iceland are open year-round.
• Why it matters: Iceland’s climate is a major factor. Winters are harsh, with snow and freezing temperatures. Most courses operate on a strictly seasonal basis, typically from late May or early June through September or early October.
• Fix: Always, always check the specific operating dates for each course you’re interested in. Don’t just assume; verify on their official website or by calling them.

• Mistake: Not checking green fees in advance.
• Why it matters: The cost of playing golf can vary significantly from one course to another. You don’t want to be caught off guard by unexpected expenses, especially when budgeting for your trip.
• Fix: Review the course website for current green fee rates or contact the pro shop directly. This allows you to budget accurately and choose courses that fit your financial plan.

• Mistake: Failing to book tee times, especially during the summer.
• Why it matters: Iceland’s golf season is short and sweet. During the peak summer months (July and August), popular courses, particularly those near major tourist hubs like Reykjavik, can book up very quickly.
• Fix: Book your desired tee times well in advance. If you have specific dates or times in mind, try to secure them as soon as your travel plans are firm.

• Mistake: Underestimating the impact of Icelandic weather on your game.
• Why it matters: Wind is a constant companion on many Icelandic courses. It can drastically alter club selection and shot-making. Weather can also change rapidly, from sunny skies to rain and back again.
• Fix: Pack layers of clothing suitable for all types of weather, including waterproofs and windbreakers. Be prepared to adjust your strategy based on the conditions. Embracing the challenge of the elements is part of the unique Icelandic golf experience.

• Mistake: Not considering travel time between courses or accommodations.
• Why it matters: Iceland is a larger country than many people realize, and driving between different regions can take considerable time. Trying to squeeze in too many rounds without accounting for travel can lead to rushed days and missed tee times.
• Fix: Plan your itinerary logically, grouping courses geographically to minimize driving. Factor in extra time for scenic stops along the way – it’s Iceland, after all!

FAQ

• How many golf courses are there in Iceland?

There are approximately 16 golf courses spread across Iceland, offering a unique golfing experience in dramatic landscapes.

• What is the best time of year to golf in Iceland?

The prime golfing season runs from late May or early June through September. During these months, courses are typically open, and the weather is most favorable for playing.

• Are golf courses in Iceland open all year?

No, the vast majority of golf courses in Iceland are seasonal. They are closed during the winter months due to snow, ice, and cold temperatures. Always check specific course operating dates.

• Can I rent golf clubs in Iceland?

Some courses do offer rental clubs, but availability can vary significantly. It’s essential to check with the specific course you plan to visit well in advance to confirm if rentals are available and to reserve them if needed.

• What kind of golf experience can I expect in Iceland?

You can anticipate a truly unique golfing experience. Courses are often set against breathtaking natural backdrops, such as volcanic fields, coastlines, and mountains. Expect challenging conditions, particularly from the wind, and a more natural, rugged style of play compared to meticulously manicured courses elsewhere.

• Are there any famous golf courses in Iceland?

While Iceland may not have courses as globally renowned as St. Andrews or Augusta, several offer exceptional experiences. Keilir Golf Club (GKG) near Reykjavik is often mentioned for its quality, and courses like Vestradalsvöllur (GC) and Akureyri Golf Club offer stunning scenery and memorable rounds.

• Do I need to be a member to play at Icelandic golf courses?

No, most golf courses in Iceland welcome visiting golfers. You generally do not need to be a member, but booking tee times in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.