Golfing under the Midnight Sky: Bears and Whales at the World's Northernmost Golf Course
Experience the ultimate golfing adventure at Tromsø Golf Club, the world's northernmost course in Norway Play under the enchanting midnight sun amidst breathtaking views of bears and whales, creating an unforgettable golfing experience that lasts all night long
Most golfers have a reasonable expectation of playing until the summer sun sets, but if you ask a Norwegian player, they might respond with confusion. In the northern regions of the Scandinavian country, playing for months without a break is a possibility.
Located in the "Land of the Midnight Sun," Tromsø golf club boasts the distinction of being the northernmost 18-hole golf course in the world. Situated approximately 217 miles (350 kilometers) north of the Arctic Circle, the city of Tromsø experiences a relatively short golf season due to its snowy winter months. This year, the course closed in March amidst 4.6 feet (140cm) of snow and was reopened on June 17, only to close again on October 5.
Every year, the club's two part-time greenkeepers face the daunting task of removing snow and ice from the fairways before reseeding the entire course. The enormity of the job has caused the general manager, Bjorn Sonstebys, to take on additional responsibilities beyond the usual scope.
"This job is unique," Sonsteby remarked to CNN. "Due to being the only employee, I often have to tackle many tasks independently, but I am fortunate to have a supportive board as well as numerous volunteers and members who lend a hand."
"Throughout March, everyone grew increasingly impatient, bombarding me with inquiries about the anticipated opening date. Traditionally, we would open on June 1st, but due to the unpredictable weather conditions, characterized by persistent wetness and icy ground, we were unable to utilize the necessary machinery."
The course lies at the bottom of the Lyngen Alps.
Cam Bauer / CNN
Light work
After just 110 days of outdoor play time, its back to the virtual golf simulators. Yet what the season lacks in length, it makes up for in beauty - and then some.
Located at the base of the majestic Lyngen Alps, just a short 45-minute drive from the city center, this course provides awe-inspiring vistas of the snow-capped mountain summits that overlook the Ullsfjorden fjord. The tranquil waters of the fjord are often graced by humpback whales and orcas, creating a picturesque scene. Additionally, as you make your way through the fairways, you may encounter reindeer and elk, who occasionally venture onto the course. Surprisingly, the elusive brown bear, a remarkable rarity in Norway, has been known to wander in the hilly regions that lie beyond the borders of the course.
Arizona's Seven Canyons golf club has faced significant challenges caused by Javelina, also known as collared peccary or musk hog. These creatures have been relentlessly disrupting the course turf in their quest for food. We interviewed Dave Bisbee, the course general manager, who shared insights into the situation. Additionally, assistant superintendent Em Casey contributed pictures to illustrate the extent of the damages.
Emily Casey/emcaseyturf
An Arizona golf course is under attack from a squadron of pig-like creatures
Arguably, Tromsø golf club truly stands out when it comes to its overhead. During the summer months, players have the opportunity to enjoy 24-hour golf, playing on the course in the early morning hours while being illuminated by the enchanting glow of the midnight sun - a remarkable occurrence found only in latitudes north of the Arctic Circle.
From September onwards, between 6pm and 2am, golfers can also witness a completely different spectacle by looking up at the sky - the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis. Situated at the heart of the Northern Lights Oval, Tromsø is regarded as one of the prime destinations to catch a glimpse of this natural phenomenon.
Sonsteby mentioned that there has been a notable surge in interest for golf in the region, thanks to this unique experience. This is evident as Tromsø golf club has seen an impressive addition of 65 new members, bringing the total membership to 470 this year alone. Sonsteby expressed his delight in the growth, particularly with the influx of younger players.
"Youre outside a lot, you walk 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) every time, so youre getting good conditioning as well."
The northern lights shine over Tromso in October 2014.
Jan Morten Bjoernbakk/AP
King Viktor
Yet arguably the biggest reason behind Norways recent golf boom is one man: Viktor Hovland.
Born in Oslo, the 26-year-old has emerged as one of the foremost players in the game in recent times, bolstering his reputation further with a remarkable 2023 season. With three victories on the PGA Tour, Hovland displayed exceptional consistency, never finishing lower than tied-13th in any of the four major championships. However, the pinnacle of his year came in October, when he showcased his talent in Europe's resounding triumph in the Ryder Cup held in Rome.
Viktor Hovland has enjoyed yet another stellar campaign.
Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
Currently ranked fourth in the world, there are no other Norwegians in the top 250. It has been over a decade since two-time LPGA major winner Suzann Pettersen dominated the sport, and Norway has not seen such exceptional talent since then. The impact of this talent is undoubtedly noticeable.
Stephen Newey, head pro at Oslo Golf Club and Pettersens junior coach, spoke to CNN about the significant growth that Viktor and Suzann have brought to the sport in Norway.
"The kids want to play golf - I want to be like Viktor, I want to be like Suzann, and they can."
