The finest scandinavian 2015 souvenir courses

DELIVERING EXCELLENCE SINCE 1999

LUXURY SOUVENIR EDITION

2015 VINTAGE

VOLUME 5 EDITION 1

THE FINEST A SOUVENIR GUIDE TO THE FINEST SCANDINAVIAN GOLF 2015

THE BEAST

OSLO G.C Magnificent

THE STUNNING SILKEBORG RY

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Scandinavia is as rich in history and myth as it is blessed with stunning scenery and breathtaking natural form. The Nordic region is one which has maintained its personality in today’s changing times to adhere to its moral and native character whilst embracing the new.

In seeking the very finest, we always take into consideration not only the golf (which has to be the best) but everything else too, so that you can happily visit and enjoy everything we showcase here.

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Editors Introduction Scandinavian Golf Overview An overview of golf and the culture of the 5 Nordic Countries

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How Tiger’s swing has changed The irrepressible Tiger and how his swing develops.

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Made In Denmark Proudly stating its origins in the title. This exciting new European Tour Tournament runs between 14-17 August 2013..

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Beginning the Nordic Golf Club run down - Sweden. , Denmark’s finest clubs superb, spectacular and amazing golf clubs!

102

Norwegian Clubs

130

Great Clubs in Finland

144

Icelandic Clubs

,

FROM THE EDITOR

O

The Finest Scandinavia

ur second luxury edition of the Finest Scandinavia is full to the brim with the greatest experiences to be enjoyed in golf and golf travel throughout Scandinavia. In all of the ‘Finest Golf’ books since 1999, we have delivered top quality golf, luxury travel and service advice for the discerning adventurer. All top tier clubs enjoy receiving the books and the members and visitors alike make a grab for any available copies in the bar or changing room!

For this, our second book exclusively showcasing and examining Scandinavia especially, we decided to raise the bar and our level of expectation grew alongside the staggering variety and choice which Scandinavia now offers. Scandinavia has excelled with a sum far greater than its parts in golfing terms and it’s golf membership and participation level is growing far faster than the US or UK for example. The youth development is second to none and most clubs now offer the coaching and free support for kids which should bear fruits for the next few years worth of talent you should expect to see and hear about soon.

We have been supported and assisted by the great clubs we feature as well as the National Golf Unions and Federations who know a thing or two about their own strengths and weaknesses. This is a golfers book, for and by golfers.

As with the previous edition which enjoyed more than 600,000 digital downloads as well as the plentiful traditional printed copies to be found in golf clubs across the US & Europe, we hope you enjoy this edition and it helps you select the very best golf and travel experiences available in this wonderful part of the world.

Scandinavia retains its culture, personality and warmth of welcome and adds a year’s more experience this time around - the things that make Scandinavian golf so memorable and unique just got better.

I hope you enjoy the book and the great clubs and experiences we offer. Go and visit the clubs and let me know what you think.

Dr James Gunn: Editor

Our thanks to, Sweden Golf Danish Golf Union Finland Golf Iceland Golf Norway Golf

INNM SCANDINAVIA M E M O R I A LGOLF H O MR E D O U Y E CD O W

F IN S T

THE WARMTH,

And the welcome of

SCANDINAVIAN GOLF In this, our second celebrated Finest Golf Souvenir book for the very best in Scandinavia, we decided to raise the bar even higher, selecting only the very best golf experiences and challenges which sets it apart from your local or more familiar haunts.

Iceland: Has Europe’s largest National Park.

In 2008, Iceland embarked on a nature conservation project on a hitherto unparallelled scale with the establishment of the 12,000 sq km Vatnajökull National Park. Few if any regions in the world offer such a mixture of ice, volcanic and geothermal features..

Few other places in the world, offer such a diverse range of things to do: c.65 golf courses – many of supreme quality, glacier walking, whale watching, relaxing in open air thermal baths, or trying such icelandic delicacies as puffin and rotten shark!

Norway: Norway shares the same latitude as Alaska, Greenland and Siberia, but compared to these areas, Norway has a temperate, very pleasant climate. From Late June, to early August the weather is at its warmest and the days are long and bright. Temperatures in July and August can reach 25°C - 30°C.

Norwegian golf is growing fast and the quality of many of Norway’s courses rivals any of the top courses in the World. Most of its c.

156 golf courses are near Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, or Stavanger, so easy enough, to Iceland, offers golfers the intriguing element of combine an afternoon tee time with your playing in the midnight sun. That’s why the family holiday activities Apres Golf!

Akureyri club, in the north of the island, runs a 36-hole international open tournament at the end Just chill out and enjoy warm Norwegian of June. The first ball is played just before hospitality, delicious food and drink and midnight and the tournament lasts until early really eye catching scenery. morning.

M E M O R I A LGOLF H OINN SCANDINAVIA OREE DOW

Sweden: Sweden’s golf courses are many and of very high quality.

Your choice of over 300 courses includes gentle, rolling fairways, cutting through forests, and rugged coastal greens. The summer season isn’t long but the quality of golf to be played on Sweden’s courses, is much in demand. Very conveniently for the visitor, the greens are usually public and open for day use and are not restricted to club members but book ahead, this is a popular sport!

Above: Iceland

Below & Left: Sweden

Finland: It’s the height of summer and you’re on vacation, so you can really let your hair down and relax. The sun is shining already at four in the morning. Get a round in before breakfast, and another one before lunch and another eighteen holes in the afternoon. Have some dinner, relax in the sauna, and then practice some putting.

There are over 150 golf courses in Finland and it is said that every 40th Finn plays golf! The number of Finnish golfers is still growing rapidly: By an annual increase of 15% during the last 5 years. The population is small and playing hours are long, so you’ll never feel crowded. In Lapland in Utsjoki for example, a single summer day lasts for over two months.

Even in the south, it’s never really dark… just a period of twilight for a few hours.

F IN S T E

Denmark: Denmark’s climate is rarely extreme: The golfing calendar extends from early spring to late autumn, because of its latitude. With its gentle topography, it’s famous for its peaceful courses, that are rarely far from the sea. The “Golf Denmark” label scheme, makes it easier for all, to find the best golf facilities - whether it is a golf course or a hotel. When the golfing day is over, there are a huge number of family activities on offer. So there you have it – 5 diverse countries, with one common passion: Golf!

Have a great holiday, in which ever country you choose and my editorial team and I wish you happy golfing.

James

HOW TIGER’S SWING HAS CHANGED Shirley Webbs Famously, Faldo managed to completely re-design his game to meet the demands of both the new breed of player coming through and also to allow his body to perform as the inevitable curse of age crept ever closer. He managed to re-discover his form in his latter playing years to again reach the summit. Given the new athleticism that is now industry standard - can players like Tiger (who has suffered from the punishing demands his power swings inevitably would cause) re-define and re-invent their game?

The odds, it would seem are against changing your entire M.O, even if your touch, feel and vision remains, the muscles, joints and increased recovery periods sadly diminish with each passing year. General fatigue and occasional aches may be part and parcel of the game, but should you consider a complete change in type and style?

We had a look and examined just how Tiger’s stance, swing and movement has adapted and altered with the years and the various comments, methods, observations and coaching he received.

"Tiger's swing was a tool, like a chisel for a sculptor. ... He didn't think about where his elbow was pointing when he used the chisel. He thought about the image he was seeing." -- Rudy Duran, Woods' first instructor "His arc got so much bigger. That's when he really started hitting the ball long. I thought he got too flat these last few years."

"Tiger did better when we worked on motion more than positions. He picked up the importance of posture or ball position better when I would show him how to hit certain shots, which was his favourite thing. I never tried to load him up with a lot of mechanical thoughts." -- John Anselmo, Woods' second instructor

HOW TIGERS SWING HAS CHANGED

HOW TIGERS SWING HAS CHANGED "I think the teachers after me have done a good job, but I don't think he needed much changing, to be honest. Sure, there was a looseness to his swing, but that was just because he hadn't filled out. I liked that freedom, that full release of his body. That was beautiful. He should hold onto that." -- John Anselmo

"I agreed with Tiger about the flaws, but I wanted to do it a piece at a time. He wanted to do it all at once. I told him it was going to be hard to play through it, and that he might want to do what Faldo did with Leadbetter and basically take a year off. He said no, and in 1998 he struggled and won only once. He had a tendency to overdo changes. I had to be very careful what I told him."

"When he drove the ball in the fairway, he was nearly unbeatable. That's what I kept trying to drive into him. But it didn't take."

The challenge was to "match the speed of the arms with the unwind of the body, which wasn't easy because Tiger had one of the fastest unwinds of the body anyone had ever seen. I decided he had to have more of a three-quarter-type swing, not a full windup and a full release." -- Butch Harmon

"There are no mechanics at all when he's really under the gun. That's how he should play all the time." -- Jack Nicklaus

"I've always taken risks to try to become a better golfer, and that's one of the things that has gotten me this far." -- Tiger Woods "If you look at where Tiger had the club as a young player, he was obviously way across the line. Butch went a long way to fixing that, and my first order of business was to continue to work in that direction."

"He was convinced that his golf swing was doing the damage to his knee. Everything had to revolve around saving his knee." -- Hank Haney

"Tiger has always been the best manager of his game. As far as changing his swing, it's very possible that he needed new ideas and new projects to stay inspired, and that those things kept him energized during times -- because he was winning everything -- when it would have been easy to lose motivation. I believe he still knows what he's doing and just needs to find his own way in his own time, and that's going to be best for him." -- Rudy Duran "They're very different swings. It's one of the things I struggled with when I worked with Hank, trying to relearn some new things and going away from what I did with Butch. The old motor patterns are still there." -- Tiger Woods "What Tiger was doing wasn't efficient. He was losing tons of speed and power, some of the things that used to most separate him. And then he was getting more crooked. He couldn't hit the fairway because his alignments were not correct. Simple as that." -- Sean Foley

MADE IN DENMARK

A HIGHLIGHT OF THE EUROPEAN TOUR . .

MADE IN

DENMARK

2014 Champion: Mark Warren The inaugural tournament was played at Himmerland in

North Jutland in August 2014 and was a massive success!

Scotland's Marc Warren held off Bradley Dredge to win Made in Denmark by two shots, shooting a 3-under 68 in the last round to secure his third European Tour title.

Warren and Dredge were tied atop the leaderboard overnight but Warren surged ahead of the Welshman with three birdies on his first eight holes to open up a four-shot lead. Warren made two more birdies coming home and could afford his second bogey on the day on the 18th hole for a 9-under 275 total.

It was Warren's first title since winning the 2007 Johnnie Walker Championship, after several recent near misses. ''It feels incredible,'' Warren said. ''Today I kept telling myself I was swinging the club really well and I was confident in what I was doing.''

Thomas Bjorn commented that Warren’s first round was …”One of the best rounds of golf I have ever seen!”

After watching Warren card an impressive 6 under.

Dredge finished with a 70 after mixing six birdies with five bogeys, ending with a 7-under 277 total.

Warren and Dredge were well clear of the rest, with England's Phillip Archer (69) finishing third with an overall 4-under 280.

More than 80,000 fans watched during the four days at Himmerland Golf & Spa Resort, at times braving gusty winds and rain. ''The crowds have been amazing,'' Warren said. ''Coming down those last four holes, the crowds were so big.''

On Sunday, play was delayed about 90 minutes by rain but Warren took advantage of the slightly lighter winds at the first European Tour event in Denmark since 2003.

Denmark's Thomas Bjorn was tied for fourth on 3-under 281 alongside Englishmen Oliver Fisher and Eddie Pepperell.

MADE IN DENMARK

Above: Warren celebrates with the MID Team

All three shot 69 on Sunday.The 7,382-yard, par-72 Backtee New Course, which will be used for the tournament, reopened at the start of the year after a $2.5 million renovation that included the re -laying of all 18 greens and the reshaping of every bunker.

Prior to the recent redesign, which was carried out by Philip Christian Spogard of Spogard and VanderVaart, the Backtee New Course was the scene of Danish star Thomas Bjorn's first professional victory in the 1995 Himmerland Open – one of 27 European Challenge Tour events played on Danish soil.

Sponsors of “Made in Denmark” The main sponsors of the tournament are: Nordea, ECCO, Willis, PWC, SAP, Mercedes-Benz, Ejner Hessel, Hilding Anders, Back Tee, Freja Transport, JYSK and Garia.

Other sponsors include Aalborg City and Airport and Visit Nordjylland

http://madeindenmarkgolf.dk/ http://www.himmerlandgolf.dk/

Bro Hof Slott Golf Club

SVENSKA GOLFFÖRBUNDET Box 84 , 182 11 DANDERYD SWEDEN Telephone: +46 8-622 15 00 E-mail: info@sgf.golf.se Sweden has made a name for itself as a golfing nation with the success of golfing legend Annika Sörenstam and leading PGA Tour players as Henrik Stenson, Peter Hanson and Jonas Blixt.

This is an achievement made more remarkable given Sweden’s long winters, but unsurprising given the quality of Sweden’s golf courses.

Golf in Sweden, which has around 470 golf clubs with 474,000 members, is booming. Here you will find championship courses such as Bro Hof Castle near Stockholm, Barsebäck GCC down south and Halmstad GC on the west coast. Given Sweden’s geography and topography, it is blessed with golfing landscapes; courses hewn from rugged coastline and others that carve through giant forests with winding streams.

Sweden offers golfers mild temperatures, mostly dry conditions, and long hours of daylight making the golf season in Sweden excellent for play. Golfers in Sweden's southern golf area, Skåne, traditionally begin playing their favorite golf courses around the first week of April. As spring's warm temperatures begin to move north, golfers in Sweden limber their golfing muscles and, by the end of May, most areas of Sweden are ready for golf.

In Sweden, golf trips can be combined with everything that your heart desires. SPA breaks, castle vacations and gastronomic experiences are only a few of the selections offered directly in relation to golf – only your imagination will set the limit to how to combine your golf holiday in Sweden. So what are you waiting for?

Play golf in Sweden!

Per Svensson: Manager Tourism Project

SWEDISH GOLF FEDERATION AND HISTORY The Swedish Golf Federation has an overall responsibility for the exercise and development of golf in Sweden. It’s an association of the country's 474 golf clubs, which, in turn, have organized themselves in 21 district associations. With 474,000 members - golf is the largest individual sport in Sweden.

In 1891, Gothenburg Golf Club is formed as the first golf club on Swedish soil.

1904 The Stockholm GC is formed and at the annual meeting of the Swedish Sports Confederation, the Swedish Golf Federation is formed. Viktor Setterberg, helps by lending the new federation 5 crowns to start operations.

In 1954, the SGF celebrates its 50th Anniversary with a membership of 5,000 golfers. Swedish golf continues to outdistance the world in gender equality as Britt Arpi becomes the first woman to co-chair a Swedish golf club at Rättviks GC. In 1967, the Swedish Golf Federation has 100 member golf clubs. However, an explosive growth in the sport begins with Sven Tumba. Tumba is a sports hero because he is a star on both the national soccer and hockey teams. His fans are legion in Sweden.

1973 is another milestone year as the number of Swedish golfers passes 50,000 and Sven Tumba creates the Scandinavian Enterprise Open (SEO) that premieres at Drottningholm GC.

THE FINEST GOLF CLUBS IN SWEDEN THE FINEST

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ULLNA GOLF CLUB BRO HOF SLOTT

FALSTERBO GOLF CLUB

PGA OF SWEDEN

LJUNGHUSEN GOLF CLUB

THE FINEST

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BRO HOF SLOTT GOLF CLUB

omance, history, desire and tradition. Just four words that come close to summing up even a fraction of one of the finest Golf Clubs in the World. Bro Hof Slott is a delight to all the senses.

Outside of the UK, The Stadium course is considered the second best course in Europe (according to many journalists), The Castle course, similarly, is thought of in such terms. We look for the experience, the charm and challenge, the facilities and the club in an overall capacity before we can honestly recommend or rave about any course or club.

Choose between The Castle Course, a challenging first-rate beauty with a Scottish links character and small challenging bunkers, and The Stadium Course, one of Europe’s absolute finest courses and either way you are spoilt for choice!

Virtually all observers and professional writers alike agree that these really are special places and courses. Upon reflection, you’d better play both, as they offer different challenges and throw up their own conundrums whilst allowing you to inhale such a special atmosphere and feeling of privilege when you play through each hole and each round.

From tee-off to the final hole, from the changing room hot tubs to exquisite lunches on the terrace, this is an experi- In Sweden, Golf Digest ranked the ‘Stadium ence you’ll remember for the rest of your life. course’ in first place (once again) whilst ‘The Castle course’ placed fifth - so competition is high, even Bro Hof Slott is located in Upplands-Bro near Stockholm, between these two world class courses!

Sweden, approx. 30 minutes’ drive from the city centre.

Superlatives are difficult to begin to describe the quality Bro Hof Slott is regularly ranked in the world’s top and feeling when you arrive and play these landmark courses in every (and any) course ranking. Considcourses. A ‘Things to do before you die’ list, to include ering there are more than 32,000 golf clubs across both the Stadium and Castle courses at Bro Hof Slott. the world and tastes differ of course, more-theThe main gates, in keeping with the elegance and grandeur, remarkable given both appears in recognised top present a view of the Castle. You should have goose 50’s lists. bumps all over by this point!)

“

From tee-off to the final hole, from the changing room hot tubs to exquisite lunches on the terrace, this is an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life…

It’s taken centuries to create and develop this area, even before the recent huge investments from the Club and its history and traditions are as great as they are esteemed. In the Middle Ages, Brogård (now Bro Hof Slott) was a royal demesne estate. The Rålamb, Funck, Ribbing, Cederhielm, Sparre and Reuterskiöld families all owned it at one time or another and under the dynamic management of Count Johan Sparre (1856-1938), the estate flourished.

The existing castle, which was designed by architect Herman Holmgren and built in 1888, was given a Baroque architectural style with Empirical elements, as was typical of the period.

”

The garden surrounding the castle has been redesigned with green open spaces and those period-typical gates we mentioned. A further 250 hectares off the golf course is managed

by Bro Hof Slott and is dedicated to Nature (which flourishes) and is enjoyed by a plethora of wildlife and too many species of birds to list.

The golf development has resulted in the preservation and maintenance of the cultural and natural heritage of the area, safeguarding this astonishing landmark and area for generations to come and visitors from across the globe.

It is undeniably Swedish, though it has many of the best attributes of US, Scottish and Links courses. The fairways, Through various leases and sales, wealthy businessman Björn greens, approaches, tees, the rough (!) – In fact everything Örås purchased the property in 2002 and began its transfor- is perfect. It is managed and maintained expertly. The level mation into the Bro Hof Slott Golf Club we see today. The of commitment and skill required to develop and keep all Castle has been completely and meticulously renovated to features in their pristine state is truly testament to the expert recreate its original appearance and is a breath taking feature management and team ability Bro Hof Slott has in abundance. and surely one of the world’s great Club residences.

One of the rooms, the 'Sparre Room', is named after the aforementioned Count Johan and is adorned with befitting furnishings and a portrait of the Count himself. The current banquet hall, which previously consisted of two unfurnished storage rooms, has been restored, painted and again looks and feels treasured, exquisite and as though you are immersed in Royal history.

"We are very proud and happy about the high ranking that we get in Sweden, Europe and Worldwide. It's amazing that a course in northern Stockholm can compete world-wide," the proud owner, Björn Örås says of his prized Stadium Course.

Though every part of the course is ideal and cared for perfectly, not for one second do you feel awkward or in awe.

You will be made to feel welcome, part of the family and cared for in the same manner as each part of the grounds (which is a good thing!). The luxurious and superb facilities, equipment and level of service, serve only to expand and take your experience further into golf heaven.

The “Boka Bord” restaurant would be in keeping with many of the top restaurants , golfing or otherwise. Again, service and commitment from the staff make this more than just top quality food and drink. The friendly smiles and genuine feeling of warmth you receive make this special – very special, but with all the comfort and relaxation you could wish to enjoy.

“

”

Our first goal was to create the best Golf Course in Sweden. Our next goal is to have the best course in Europe.

Björn Örås

The par 72, 18-hole Stadium Course, which, like the estate's second Championship layout, the Castle course, was designed by US golf course architect, Robert Trent Jones Jnr, opened its doors to the public in 2007 and is amongst the very longest in Europe, stretching up to 6 955 metres (7 607 yards) from its back tees.

Jones commented: “Everything is big at Bro Hof. The holes are longer, greens bigger, course has more water and bunkers larger and well placed. Besides which, the wind is always part of the game. On the dogleg holes, you not only have to hit the ball a long way, you have to get it to stop too!”

The Stadiums thick roughs and elevated greens will really punish wayward approaches and drives, its design tempts and teases you in equal measure. The twists and turns encourage you to add a little risk into your game – irrespective of whether you are a regular or long hitter, though longer shots may be handy here.

Choose to tee up from the white or black tees and each hole presents a brand new set of challenges and add a few notches to the difficulty...

The Castle Course, which opened in 2009, is shorter and a little more forgiving though full of its own special challenges and personality. It includes numerous spectacular holes and its greens are fast and true.

info@brohofslott.se www.brohofslott Bookings: + 46 (0) 8 545 279 90

The stunning water features and hazards on both holes, though typically stunning are there for the challenge of the course and not merely for show.

The practice facilities with a superb driving range and chipping and putting greens as well as a top notch pro shop complete the enviable list of features Bro Hof Slott boasts.

There is simply no better way to explain the quality, feel and charm of Bro Hof than to encourage you to enjoy and visit yourself. It is a true marvel and experience to repeat and repeat again. You will seriously indulge in one of the finest golf experiences available.

Contact Phone: + 46 (0) 8 545 279 90 E-mail: info@brohofslott.se Bro Hof Slott SE-197 91 BRO

BORRE GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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Consistently ranked in the top courses of Norway, Borre Golf Club ( ) is a prime example of that represents the golf experiences in Scandinavia.

Located approx. 90km from Oslo and close to the Swedish border on the South-Eastern edge of Norway, Borre is as fetching to the eye as it is challenging to the golf enthusiast. Flyers can access Torp Airport which lies about 20km away and drivers will take about an hour’s drive from Oslo, so it’s both easy to get to and far enough away to enjoy the freedom and tranquillity it contains.

Tommy Nordstrom is credited with the design in 1991, however in 2005 the course underwent a massive modernisation and layout change. Nine superb new holes were added and the course was re-routed with the sole aim to push the limits, increase playability and extend the golfing experience for all levels of player. “New Borre” ( compliments and adds to the original “Gamle Back Nine” layout to achieve a new, modern ‘golfersgolf-course!’

I was, sadly, unable to play the original design so cannot compare with any real degree of accuracy, however, what remains is stunning to the eye and full of superb holes, all sequenced cleverly to test, push and ask questions of your game – .

This “new” course, consists of 6,891 yards of adrenaline filled golf, all squeezed into a picturesque and aesthetically remarkable park land and forest scape - par 72.

It’s tough and difficult to reach and break par, but full of surprises and risk-reward holes. A high level of thought and technical know-how has been invested into the course to make certain that it’s worthwhile on every level.

Big hitters will be delighted in pushing their game and finding routes to glory and short game wizards (a little like myself) will equally enjoy the tactical side of the course and the more finesse inspired lines. It genuinely provides a great experience for experienced golfers and starters alike, who play for the pleasure and relaxation – not perhaps .

“Big hitters will be delighted…”

The Club house

The landscape is typical of the region and full of beauty and Norwegian charm with the ancient forest and softwoods seamlessly merging and adding to the lush parkland. It doesn’t try to be an American or British course, but remains true and sympathetic to ‘who and what’ it is.

A superb, top-tier Norwegian masterpiece!

The 5th, 6th and 7th holes are exceptional par 4’s and exhilarating in sequence – pushing you to your limits without respite. The 5th hole – “FERGEMANNEN” in particular is an absolute masterpiece, played from an elevated tee with water completely down the left hand side, leading to a narrow entrance to the island green.

Stunning to look at, but even better to play! Any margin for error almost eliminated in your quest to reach the green without fishing for your ball…

Hole 6, “BORREVANNET”, though only 325 yards is equally challenging with water placed immediately in front of the green to catch any under-hit approaches and undulating sides all around to punish a wayward strike.

Borre Golf Club Semb Hovedgaard N-3186 Horten, Norway http://www.borregb.no/ Tel: +47 416 27 000 EMail: borregb@online.no

The seventh, “SANDODDEN” is a right hand dog leg which leads to a raised green protected by two bunkers like sentry men. Terrific holes all three but inspired course layout when played after each other and worth the visit by themselves!

All along the front and back nine each hole is placed with thought and consideration and the break at the 10th hole, beside Lake Borre provides a welcome half-way house beside the magnificent ‘Semb Manor House’, a gem of an opportunity to take in and enjoy the scenery as well as the excellent snacks and drinks available there.

The 15th is also well worthy of a mention, the almost 300 yard par 4 plays beautifully, but I adored it more-so for the absolute beauty of the hole, a joy to play and behold.

All over the course there are challenges and holes of real note, great by themselves but exceptional as an 18 hole experience. The grounds are manicured and maintained expertly – exactly what you would expect from a course which has hosted top ranking tournaments for professionals and world class players.

The stunning and challenging holes at Borre

Attention to detail and meticulous husbandry of the rough and kept fairways is testament to the quality and high standards of green keepers and ground managers.

The fairways are without exception challenging (and punishing) to wayward or lazy drives, the greens are ALL true and honest.

They play consistently and though (perhaps a little fast) never leave you feeling cheated. Those birdie putts will go down if you play bravely enough and strike true - absolutely essential in any golf course and for any serious round of golf.

This course is easily one of Scandinavia’s best to play and experience for both recreational and serious golfers. It rewards a risk taker but is just as happy for you to play though with a leisurely round and relaxing party or business jaunt.

Practice facilities and locker rooms are superb as is the fantastic club house – everything has been well thought out and managed to perfection to ensure you are made to feel welcome, comfortable and at ease from the beginning. The ethos of the club is warm and friendly and the staff obviously takes pride in the club – it seems to be inbuilt that they want you to leave having experienced one of Norway’s best golf clubs.

Borre Golf Club Semb Hovedgaard N-3186 Horten, Norway http://www.borregb.no/ Tel: +47 416 27 000 EMail: borregb@online.no

A real gem of a club and course, full of surprises and quality throughout. I look forward to visiting once again soon and am certain you will be busy making plans for a second visit. Lots of memorable and superb holes which linger in the mind and demand “just another go”.

FALSTERBO GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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Absolutely, positively NO trip to play golf in Scandinavia should be made without a trip to the unbelievable Falsterbo Golf Club of Sweden.

It shares numerous members with Royal County Down and Prestwick to name but two courses. Make no mistake. Falsterbo is absolutely in that league.

If we are to uncover a gem which may not be the most familiar with golfers from the UK, US, Southern Europe or Asia – this has to be it.

Falsterbo was actually founded in 1909 and is Sweden’s third oldest club. It is located in one of the most stunning and picturesque conservation areas in the world, at the Southernmost tip of Sweden on the Falsterbo Peninsula – which is as remarkable as it is beautiful. The Oresund and Baltic meet here and its bird colonies and rare varieties bring not only golfers but bird watchers to witness the extremely rare breeds which enjoy this area. It can rightly claim to have the utmost authority on birdies… (apologies my last pun)…

It was designed by the remarkable Gunnar Bauer – a local Doctor with a passion for golf and an intelligence and character to match. He took the existing 9 hole course which was built round the lighthouse and extended the course to the 18 magnificent and extraordinary holes we know today. Only the 7th and 14th remain of the original 9 to this day.

Between 1996 and 2001 some course modernisation and remedial work was carried out on the greens, but apart from that, the course stays true to the exquisite design and challenge Bauer first dreamt back in the early 1900’s.

The 7th green by the clubhouse

Having played Falsterbo recently, it is the more remarkable given the modern advancements in the game and the course still plays and holds true (& then some!). It is as difficult and challenging as it is thought provoking and charismatic. Every hole, each shot asks a question and requires thought and technical know-how. Big hitters, short tacticians, combination players. There is something here for everyone. Professional through to beginners, I defy any golfer not to enjoy and be mesmerised by the quality of this world class venue.

The course and climate are quite British-esque in a way.

The wind and sea breeze meets the sand and rough with perfect harmony. It is effectively looking at the best of British Links with all the wisdom, wit and character of the Swede’s. An absolute delight.

You will find yourself smiling from ear to ear as you suck in the fresh sea air and admire the scenery which envelopes the course. White sandy beaches on your side, the Sea crashing away and the rugged rough lining the perfect fairways leading to perfection in the greens.

The brilliant 18th is everything a short par 5 should aspire to be. The green can (just) be reached in two should the prevailing wind assist you, however should you stray off line a bucket and spade should be in your bag (to help locate your ball in the dazzling white sands!).

The climate is mild and the sea’s impact on the course means that Falsterbo can be played all year round and is a different beast in Winter than Spring and again a whole new course to play in Summer as opposed to the climactic variances of any other season. It literally takes on a new personality depending on when you play.

In 1984, David Blair (Captain of the R&A Club of St Andrews) when visiting Falsterbo exclaimed “this is an outstanding Links!” – he was notoriously hard to please.

Falsterbo is a classic example of the original Scottish golfing terrain - links. Sand dunes with sparse vegetation intervenes with lower lying areas where under decades a natural and fine turf has come forth. The natural water hazards, many large sand bunkers as well as depressions and the fast running greens are some of the characteristics of the course, which has for many years constantly been ranked among Sweden’s top-3 courses.

The 17th flag

Falsterbo lies within a virtually unique selection of classic and true links courses in Scandinavia and as mentioned, one of the oldest – full of character and traditional virtue but remaining relevant to the modern games criteria. The club house is alive with history and feels like you are entwined with historical significance.

It’s not stuffy or uncomfortable – far from it. The welcome-could-not-be-greater!

Without exaggeration, you feel like a member in this great club te moment you arrive and everything is done to invite and make you feel at home. The importance of the club is not forgotten to golf in Sweden and it is displayed throughout.

The warmth of the hospitality soon erodes when you begin your round and make your way to the first tee.

The winds are notorious and punishing on occasion – it all adds to the mystique and the challenge though. Reaction to the first hole is mixed, but we found it fantastic and a great (risky) start to your round. A careless shot could destroy your card before you properly get started! golfers enjoy – hit the ground That is exactly what running and begin as we mean to go on.

The 7th hole transforms this spectacular course into the acclaimed links for real. A short dog leg par 4 which ends in front of the club house. Again, full of tricky shots and shot-selection-posers and brimming with risk/ reward choices.

The 11th hole is located on a island green with a wooden bridge providing access. Its 160 yard status belies the challenge which confronts you and the obvious damage to your round such a hole can inflict.

The back nine contain many of the most beautiful holes I have experienced in world golf. With water on both sides and dunes around you, you are isolated from the world with only the challenge of the hole to accompany you around. The 17th and 18th holes run along the peninsula edge towards the clubhouse and the walk is a pleasure to be savoured with the rare birds to keep you company.

The fairways through the course, though narrow and punishing – are consistent and true. The priority (in my opinion) is to play straight and accurately rather than long, though both aspects would be beneficial. The greens, immaculate (despite the wind and sea barrage) seem to always play true and reward brave putting.

This is an Open Championships quality course in my humble opinion; to find such an outstanding course so far from the traditional location of the British Isles is remarkable. Add to this the unique Scandinavian influences – which make the course – and this is truly something special.

A refreshing drink feels and tastes so much better having earnt it on course – completing 18 gruelling and remarkable holes of world-class golf in a setting which is second to none.

A quick paddle in the Baltic to top off one of the greatest rounds of golf to be played anywhere in the world and your trip will be complete.

– (as you will be busy making plans for your next visit).

Falsterbo – simply one of the finest golf clubs in the world.

Falsterbo Golf Club Fyrvägen 34 239 40 FALSTERBO SWEDEN Phone: +46 40 47 00 78 Email: info@falsterbogk.se

ULLNA GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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weden is blessed with some of the finest quality and playing courses anywhere. So selecting the very finest was a challenge in itself. Occasionally, a selection process is simplified when stand-out candidates engrave their name on the elite list immediately leaving only a few other options to be chosen from.

Ullna GC in Sweden is one of those easy selections – like having Lionel Messi in your squad, when available, he selects himself…. .

Ullna golf club is situated approximately 12 miles from Stockholm in Sweden, beside Lake Ullna (which often doubles in the winter months as an ice skating rink). The course and club was founded in 1981 by Sven Tumba and officially inaugurated by HRH Prince Bertil on August 27 that same year.

Tumba (born Sven Olof Gunnar Johansson -27 August 1931- 1st October 2011) was one of the most prominent Swedish ice hockey players of the 1950s and ‘60s.

He also represented Sweden in football as well as golf. He was obviously a keen sportsman but also a ‘trend setter’ and visionary. His golf course designs providing an ultimate challenge while keeping to his principles and belief in fair play and camaraderie.

He introduced the game of golf itself to the former Soviet Union, invented the first Ice hockey helmet in 1955 and set up and founded numerous youth initiatives including the first Ice hockey school, the Colgate Golf cup for children, the first golf school for children in the Soviet Union, numerous grants, illiteracy programmes just to name but a few…

Certainly, a proud and rich history and founder for any organisation or club.

Looking ahead, Ullna GC embarked upon two years of intensive work and upgrades by Nicklaus design, (with Jack Nicklaus’ personal commitment and friendship with Sven Tumba playing a big part in shaping this challenging new course) which was completed and course re-opened in June 2013. Ullna now stands above most-if not all - in terms of sheer quality, prestige, challenge and as an overall experience itself. It is regularly played by top pros, Ryder Cup players and sportsmen such is the unique and exhilarating course and fantastic quality of facility.

The surroundings are stunning, absolutely mind-blowingly beautiful. Each hole could be a renaissance landscape.

“

We’re not in a habit of bragging but you have one of the most fun and playable courses I have ever seen.

”

Jack Nicklaus, July 1st 2012, standing on the 18th green.

“

Working with my great friend and your designer Sven Tumba

was very special. Sven was a great athlete and person. He loved Ullna very much and he wanted it to be simply the best.

I hope all of you are pleased with the golf course. It has been a work of love for me.

Jack Nicklaus

�

The backdrops are unbelievable – Lake Ullna, the forests and greens, the perfect fairways. It is truly a one-off in terms of sheer beauty and testament to the expert maintenance and care provided by such a skilled grounds team.

Nature is nurtured, encouraged and the course plays exactly like it should with consistent playing surfaces and immaculate greens.

The Ullna Golf Club Restaurant is worthy of a visit even for non-golfers. It has been awarded the “Best Restaurant in Sweden” by Golf Digest and the bar, well, “Best Bartender in Sweden”, Per Zetterman’s infamous, Crystal Cocktail (a pre-dinner drink), is almost obligatory on your visit.

Ullna Golf Club is a championship course that hugs the shores of Lake Ullna. The lake and its streams come into play on almost every hole.

Ullna GC is consistently ranked in Continental Europe’s top-50 golf courses (Golf World & Golf Digest) so is not just a beautiful course, a challenging and memorable one too.

The first hole is a strategic and tempting hole.

Nicklaus’ reboot has been generous in removing one of the bunkers to forgive a wayward approach. However, be too brave and it will punish you. An excellent first hole – immediately setting out its philosophy and allowing the golfer to play with an option to extend yourself if desired.

Ullna’s signature hole, ‘The Icon’ is as memorable as it is tough to play. The third hole, standing aloft the Lake and separated by a picturesque stone bridge. Its green is sloped to add to the difficulty and enjoyment. Its look and feel oozes and enhances the feeling of achievement and class. It’s a hole which you just want to come back to and find different routes, positions and areas to exploit.

The fourth hole is regarded by many as one of Ullna’s greatest holes. You are confronted with two options teeing off. Hit your tee shot safely to the left to avoid the Lake, or try to hit over the Lake for a straight fairway shot. Playing safely results in a more difficult second, whilst the risky Tee in itself rewards you with a straighter second shot. Either way, with so many options to suit your own style and shot there is something for every golfer here.

www.ullnagolf.se Bookings: +46 (0) 8-514 412 30 The fifth and sixth holes also bend and meander through the Lake, traversing the banks and pushing you this way and that, challenging you with each relentless shot.

The Tumba – Hole 8, was my personal favourite. Lots of class and again, wonderful scenery to greet you across its new layout. The water is a little less dramatic, but just as fearsome to play through.

The toughest tee shot at Ullna – Hole 15 – The Strong. Prepare for something extraordinary! Naturally a long draw will help, though having said that, the great oak might make you think twice. This could be a nightmare hole if you don’t keep your nerve. Nicklaus moved the tee boxes 40 metres further back from its already difficult situation. The fairway is very narrow between the trees and unforgiving of a wayward shot. The green itself is beautifully laid out with a pond and huge bunker protecting it on two fronts.

Hole by hole, Ullna provides as many surprises as it does with natural beauty and the epitome of quality and style. It’s a privilege and pleasure to play and enjoy the experience and one you’ll want to repeat soon after.

In summary, the golf, club restaurant, club bar facilities are frankly head and shoulders above any other club or course in Scandinavia. Its level of personal service, attention to detail, welcome, accomplished and well managed style will leave you thrilled, delighted and looking to enjoy such a magnificent Golf Club time and time again.

Ullna Golf Club Roslagsvägen 36 Åkersberga Sweden Tel +46 (0) 8-514 412 30 Website www.ullnagolf.se e-mail ullna@ullnagolf.se

LJUNGHUSEN GOLF KLUBB THE FINEST

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The magnificent Ljunghusen Golf Klubb has been described as the Turnberry of Sweden – The Ailsa course to be precise. It’s a little misleading and extremely difficult to try to find comparisons between any two golf courses – especially two from different countries, cultures and terrains, however the similarities are most certainly there in several aspects.

The beautiful Swedish landscape is one feature which of course cannot be replicated or compared to any other – nor would you ever want it to. Located approximately 30km South of Malmo, just to the West of Trelleborg on the Southern tip of the Swedish (Falsterbo) peninsula lies Hollviken - A most picturesque and typically Swedish town.

Although quintessentially Swedish in its personality, it’s actually closer to Copenhagen in Denmark than to the Swedish capital, Stockholm! It is easily accessible by road to Denmark and even Germany and well covered by airports and ferry services too.

was opened to play in 1932 and it boasts 27 spectacular holes in its unique maritime heath on the Falsterbo peninsula. It has held numerous championships and both National and International tournaments – such is the high level and standard of challenge – which include the PLM Open, Telia Tour GP and the European Men’s Team championships. Designed by Douglas Brasier, this course this is a course full of imagination and charisma.

Like Turnberry and other famous Scottish cousin courses, Ljunghusen is blessed by nature with both its scenery, landscape, rugged location and weather variations – which ultimately mean that the course can play completely differently from one season, week, day, EVEN one hour to the next! The challenges and style of challenge that face you alter and differ so greatly that should you ever assume you have a particular hole beaten, the wind changes speed and direction and it plays completely differently, like a brand new hole.

Ljunghusen club house 1933

Superb golf courses should always be testing and this is absolutely in that category.

The Baltic weather and climactic variations are only one hurdle you must prepare and arm yourself for. The 80 deep bunkers and numerous (I think 12) extreme water hazards combined with thick gorse and heather areas mean this is a genuine Championship course designed to meet the highest and most exacting of golfers requirements. Some courses are designed to play with a recreational or relaxing attitude, like a Golden retriever using dog breeds as an example: reassuring and comforting – Ljunghusen is more of a wolf, unpredictable, dangerous, fierce!

This is a golfers circuit, made to test and push your game for real enthusiasts and high calibre players. Any local golf course can allow you to make 18 comfortable holes, it takes a wolf to stir the blood and awaken the adrenaline in you.

The fairways are tight and narrow, mis-hit your tee shot and you will be fighting to recover on almost all of the holes. The sea and landscape all around you are stunning to the eye, but you will barely have opportunity to enjoy the views. The ground plays consistently and true, there is shape and undulation, however, the heights and fall of the ground is not the major draw or consideration. Its all about accuracy, gauging the power and dealing with the wind and conditions on each hole.

Every single hole and each individual shot needs your utmost concentration, it’s not enough to simply select your club; you have to consider the wind, the feel and the pressure in the air, simply awesome as you play your round. One of our group mentioned after the round that he felt like he was playing at the Open. He felt the pressure and enjoyed the challenge of every single shot raising his standard and never allowing him to rest on his laurels. Even after playing a great shot, a new set of challenges faced his shot where he was confronted with a new set of problems to overcome.

The 6th, 7th and 8th holes in sequence are superb to play in particular.

Be confident and free in your swing and try not to worry about the width of the fairway.

Though it looks tight, there is plenty of room to land safely, just trust your game and consider your risks. Trying to steal a shot may cost you two or three!

Ljunghusen club house today

Ljunghusen club house from the 18th

LJUNGHUSENS GOLFKLUBB KINELLS VÄG 236 42 HÖLLVIKEN SWEDEN TEL +46 40 � 45 80 00

Ljunghusen course aerial

Ljunghusen green Ljunghusen 17th

It is the epitome of a risk and reward course – take it too easy and your score card will reflect the safety, try to risk a shot here or there and the consequences can be severe. That is exactly what golf should be about though – shouldn’t it?

The 17�� and 18�� holes demonstrate this point exactly. The 280 metre 17�� par 4 is an absolute beauty of a hole. It invites you to take a risk which could destroy your score card, or make you a hero! The water at the front, left and right is threat enough, but when added to the elevated green with four bunkers around the hole, it really results in a spectacular hole with as much charm as it has difficulties to overcome.

A genuine feast of golf for the connoisseur and aficionado of golfers to savour. Ljunghusen has been consistently ranked in the top 10 Swedish golf courses and the top 100 courses of Europe so you should expect great things. Believe me, you wont be disappointed.

The food is magnificent in the restaurant and service is of an extremely high standard. They take pride in everything they provide at the club which includes the look, feel and maintenance of the grounds on both the course and around the comfortable Club House.

The Club House is a modern building that has an impressive and comfortable balcony which allows for a welcome drink to consider your round. It houses all modern facilities and caters for the most demanding of golfer’s needs. The Glass walls let the light and natural scenery into the club which helps to keep the feeling and round clear in your thoughts. The members are equally welcoming and happy to share their thoughts and tips on the course to match the day’s conditions.

The environmental considerations are paramount to the club. The exquisite heath lands and attachment to nature are evident and the club takes it’s responsibilities seriously in the maintenance and success of the local species which add to the experience and unique quality of Ljunghusen.

It was incidentally the first ever course to be GEO (Golf Environment Org) certified, which means it exceeds all environmental and sustainable targets and leads the way in modern golf design and maintenance.

Not only does Ljunghusen deliver a golf experience to savour and stay with you long after your round has been completed, the legacy and leadership it displays in collaboration with its surroundings and with nature is second to none.

PGA OF SWEDEN NATIONAL THE FINEST

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In 1996 the Swedish Board of the PGA had just concluded their daily chores and retired to enjoy a whisky (or two) and discuss the future of Swedish golf, advancement and the possibilities of creating world class golf courses to rival the very best in the world.

The idea excited everyone, but the sheer scale of the task gave a reality check to most who had been so enthused the evening before.

All that is - except one. The next morning, Mikael Sorling began a project that 13 years later would result in one of the world’s greatest golf courses – The PGA Course of Sweden.

The investment was sourced and found, Kyle Phillips was recruited as the Golf course architect (and lead design) and its location perimeters (proximity to Denmark, Germany and accessible to golfers) all set and implemented.

Finding prime land resources to match the strict criteria was an unenviable task - securing over 275 hectares of land - ticking all the boxes - seemed almost impossible. Nils Yngvesson the former city councillor knew of Malmö council´s interest in selling the magnificent grounds of Torup Castle. Kyle gave the thumbs up for the site and the vision had now become reality.

A vast project begun in re-developing the land back to its former undulating and natural state from its agriculturally flattened condition. Easier options were always available, but this project had to be perfect and this course to be the very finest in Sweden and one of the best in the world – so NO corners were cut.

The ethos of the PGA Course, Sweden was to create a world class modern golf venue, one which had everything a top-tier club needed, but also one which was sympathetic to tradition and included the very best classical features. The service and quality had to exceed excellence in every department from the quality of the facilities to the challenge of the golf – whilst remaining accessible and open to all golfers and being the course where every player sought to return to and enjoy again.

When everything is complete there will be two magnificent 18 hole golf courses, a fantastic 9 hole par three course, conference centre, state of the art practice facilities, a restaurant overlooking the finishing holes on both courses, spa, magnificent hotel rooms, teaching studio´s, golf shop and a custom fitting service.

Thirteen years after the preliminary discussions the official opening of the PGA of Sweden National took place on the 12th of June 2009 – and a club exceeding all earlier expectations was formed.

The venue houses the renowned Links Course and a park land inspired course, the Lakes course. Both championship 18 hole courses and together under the PGA course banner – formidable! Their attachment to nature and sympathetic allegiance to the harmony of the land make them unique in their quality, experience and of course challenge to golfers.

The club house, another feat of perseverance and design excellence contains 16 luxury suites, a restaurant, bar and facilities all meeting those high exacting standards.

All these enviable attributes and assets however are only topped by the sheer friendly professionalism of the superb staff who welcome everyone with the same custom and make it a real pleasure to visit and enjoy the PGA Sweden.

The project with all its tireless dedication, hurdles and challenges together with all of the money, time and minute planning that went into creating this masterpiece, would only be worthwhile if the challenge and enjoyment of the golf exceeded all other things. As you may have gathered by now – - and how!!

The only way to properly share the fun to be had at the Links and the Lakes courses is to suggest you make plans to play both. For the purpose of at least wetting your appetite though a brief overview of each and the 9 hole Academy course for basic and golfers to play.

Lakes Course On May 29, 2010 the Lakes Course was inaugurated by European Tour winner Peter Hanson and course architect Kyle Phillips, it was fully opened just a month later on the 29th June.

Here the player faces typical creeping bent grasses, small greens, more water hazards and large bunkers. The course has been built with the most modern methods and completely in harmony with nature. Right from the opening, the Lakes Course is a terrific test of golf and thoroughly examines and pushes the most avid and dedicated golfers of all standards.

You play with the clubhouse in the background and views over the beautiful countryside all around you. The large, purpose-built lake bordering holes 9, 17 and 18 is daunting and provides a true test and fabulous backdrop for any connoisseur of the game. Bunkers on the Lakes Course are 74 in number, no fewer than on the Links Course but with an overall area equal to almost three times that of the Links course. Most definitely obstacles to be reckoned with or avoided.

The Lakes Course opens with a slight dog leg right par five measuring nearly 500 meters. Uphill, heavily bunkered all the way to a small undulating green. .

The secret of the ninth hole is to get the ball in play. A great drive, slightly right of the fairway, will help. But it is long and narrow all the way to the green, where both water and bunkers await, An extremely challenging golf hole.

The tenth green is tricky to say the least tricky and there are some extremely tough flag placements, Carelessness can easily result in a double bogey. The three finishing holes are demanding and require great courage and skill. The sixteenth although “only� protected by a little winding creek is all the more reason to keep the ball on the fairway.

Seventeenth on the Lakes Course and the Links Course are crucial short holes. You have to fly the ball 155 meters over the water, into a narrow but deep green with several bunkers guarding the right side.

The closing hole is 500 meters long with the lake all the way up the left side. The slope down to the water will punish the unaware or the careless.

Links Course The Links Course is a classic 18 hole championship course created in tandem with nature. The course has the typical characteristics of links golf with large undulating greens and numerous small deep bunkers.

The greens are built on a bed of sand then shaped to liken the soft sand dunes of a typical Scottish links course. The grass specification for the links course is a fescue blend, providing the playing characteristics typical to links courses – they all play true and consistently.

The stunning red brick clubhouse is visible from every hole on the course and on clear days one can see all the way to Turning Torso in Malmö so it is as pretty to the eye as it is adrenaline pumping to the soul!

With around 20 meters altitude difference the course is a demanding and exciting golf experience which requires a certain amount of guile to avoid the small stream which runs along seven of the holes on the links.

As with all links courses, there are no trees – in breaking with tradition – even if only a little bit, the Links has one… It grows all by itself behind the first green – it actually adds to the unique feel of the course and a little badge to wear on the lapel for this true masterpiece. There are also two very old mining sites on course - Legend has it that a young farmer’s son had fallen into one of these sites and his father tried to rescue him. His screams of help are still to be heard on the long light summer nights apparently!! (Keep an ear out when you pass by).

PGA of Sweden National Box 5, 233 02 Bara, SWEDEN Reception +46 (0) 40 635 51 00 r http://www.pgaswedennational.se/

Academy Course The nine hole Academy course consists of nine full length par 3’s that have the same quality as the Lakes and Links. It is also designed by Kyle Phillips so maintains all the same high standards of play and the same spirit and stunning look and feel. The course is perfect for those who fancy a quick round or want to practice their short game/ iron play. It is open for pay & play as long as one player holds a handicap.

All facilities are world class, the service is fantastic and the golf, simply some of the best we have ever played. The fairways and greens all play consistently, honestly and true. The Pro Shop is perfect and you get personalised scoring cards and a detailed stroke-saver when you play. The food as you would expect – fantastic and even when the course is quiet, the same standards and menu is available to provide freshly cooked food in the lovely surroundings.

No guide on the finest golf of Scandinavia would be complete without the magnificent PGA National of Sweden.

Silkeborg Ry Golf Club

Denmark punches way above its relative size in golfing circles. From it’s incredible 190 courses’ quality, breadth and variety through to its remarkable achievements in successful players from Thomas Bjørn, Thorbjørn Olesen and Morten Ørum Madsen.

Denmark can offer long summer evenings, a rich tapestry of different course types, styles and challenges and that enviable Danish welcome and identity which sets it apart from all others.

The Danish Golf Union encourages, supports and develops golf in Denmark at every level. From a close relationship with the golf clubs, players and business links, the DGU is as ultra professional and efficient at offering keen support to the game and the development of the business strategy in the country.

There are golf courses all over Denmark - from Bornholm to the western Jutland, from The White Dunes in Skagen to Marielyst on Falster. From beautiful courses close to sea and fjord to the impressive forest paths where you can feel nature's rich flora and fauna.

The Danish summer weather allows you to play from early morning till late at night. There is nothing quite as lovely as the bright summer evenings in Denmark - and golfers can´t imagine a better place to spend these glorious moments than on a golf course.

Denmark also has some of Europe's lowest green fees despite the high quality of both the courses and clubs services.

The Danish Golf Union was founded in 1931 to manage Danish golf clubs' interests. Because of the size of Denmark and the amount of golf clubs, the Danish Golf Union offers a high degree of support and counselling.

The DGU is striving for the future of the game and success of Danish golf in general. Its ambition and focus for the next 20 years is to increase the number and quality of Danish clubs, to incorporate more members and a wider diversity of members.

They are opening golf for everyone without losing any of the high principles and standards the game demands and golfers now expect.

In developing players the DGU are striving to produce players with both a physical prowess and the mental strength and personality to perform at the highest level.

Elite players are taught to take responsibility in their own careers, enjoying a high standard of home tournaments, a strong development structure, positive role models and coaches and also including and prioritising the women’s game - which is already incredibly strong in Denmark.

In developing players,the DGU are striving to produce players with both a physical prowess and the mental strength and personality to perform at the highest level.

Elite players are taught to take responsibility in their own careers, enjoying a high standard of home tournaments, a strong development structure, positive role models and coaches and also including and prioritising the women’s game - which is already incredibly strong in Denmark.

THE FINEST

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ALLBORG GOLF KLUB HIMMERLAND GOLF

SILKEBORG RY GOLF KLUB

LYNGBYGAARD GOLF CLUB

SKJOLDENAESHOLM GOLF CENTRE

FALSTER GOLF CLUB

HIMMERLAND GOLF & SPA RESORT THE FINEST

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O

ne of the golfing highlights and featured events in Scandinavia is the coveted and renowned “Made in Denmark” tournament. Essentially this is the Danish Open – the biggest and most prestigious golf event in Denmark. It’s obviously not only an honour to host and manage this event – but a massive responsibility. ‘Made in Denmark’ is a top-tier European Tour Event which takes place from the 14th-17th August (2014) and is attended by the majority of top ranking professionals. Himmerland proudly hosts this tournament and what an incredible venue and hosting club it really is!

Making our elite list of top-tier and spectacular golfing highlights and recommendations is the stunning Himmerland Golf & Country Club - It really is a breath taking and incredible venue.

Himmerland lies approximately 20 kilometres to the West from (reputedly) Europe’s cleanest city, Aalborg (a stunning and relatively undiscovered city location in the exposed North of Jutland, Denmark. This is an area of outstanding natural beauty and history and boasts a natural effervescence and scenic beauty which can only be enjoyed in this part of the world.

Not only is Himmerland a stunning, superb and absolutely top quality country club, it’s Northern Europe’s largest golf resort boasting 45 superb holes and extensive practice facilities of the highest order.

With so many challenges contained within the luxurious centre of excellence, there is a decision to be made with regards to which course to select! Each option offers its own set of challenges and pushes your game in different ways; however, many will choose the PGA New Course ( , Back-Tee New) which was originally laid out by Jan Sederholm in 1993.

It was completely closed for renovation by Spogard and Van der Vaart Course architects to stunning acclaim and opened to play in April 2013. The work has been incredibly well received and has transformed this already superb course into a world-beater of a golf course! It looks and plays amazingly with so many beautifully crafted hazards and a layout to push your shot selection and strategic thinking to the full.

The redeveloped PGA New Course, now measures almost 7,400 yards (and now renamed the ‘Back-tee New’) and will debut on the European Tour circuit in 2014. The course is made for top quality golf. It is a dream to play for both long hitters with ultra-High-Tec kit and regular players with tried and trusted clubs. It is designed so that each and every hole will push your game should you allow it and provide the vigour and mental intrigue that all world class circuits need to deliver.

Himmerland has a pedigree in hosting major events and the quality and standard testifies as such - Thomas Bjørn, for example, won his first professional title here in 1995 at the New Course. The greens, fairways and overall condition of the course is superb. Manicured and maintained with precision and dedication. It is managed with the utmost of professionalism and it looks like ‘money is no object’ in providing you with the best quality in comfort, play design and upkeep to enjoy a terrific and memorable round (or two) of golf.

Although the course measures almost 7,400 yards, it shouldn’t intimidate you. Different Tee placements mean that regular hitters can also find the right challenge to suit.

“

The course is made for top quality golf. It is a dream to play for both long hitters with ultra-High-Tec kit and regular players with tried and trusted clubs.

”

The resort, as mentioned, has two full 18 hole courses (The Garia and aforementioned Back-Tee) as well as a practice/ beginners course – The Bette Course. Though the Back-Tee steals the headlines with its sheer playing and fluid challenges, the Garia is well worth a visit too!

Himmerland ticks so many boxes and fulfils so much it is difficult to simply review or critique the golfing parts alone.

Golf is much more than just the round itself. It has to provide a complete experience and be comparable to numerous other recreational activities and pleasures, that these days, clubs and resorts have to be resourceful and generous if they want to succeed. Himmerland gets our vote as it simply achieves on every single level to most, if not all groups of golfers and travellers. Families, friends, business groups or get-together's can all arrive at Himmerland to one of the warmest welcomes you are ever likely, and lucky, enough to be spoilt to!

As a complete country club, Himmerland is bursting with activities and facilities. From Bowling , an incredible bar (The Sky Bar) as well as the simply opulent restaurants (the POLO fine dining restaurant and the Brasserie - my favourite!) which serves superb classic and contemporary cuisine and will satisfy…

Genuinely, I cannot fault any of the facilities, set-up and offered services. It is managed to such a high degree of . All staff we encountered care and ‘ couldn’t be happier to help and provide a service which will make you glad to be there. It all feels genuine, as if they know how good an experience this is and are glad they can help add to your enjoyment.

I visited with two fellow golf writers, and trying to combine my obsession with golf with an even greater professional obsession to find objective faults or failure became the challenge of the week-end! We gave up looking for fault as it just oozed comfort and provided a welcoming and relaxed ambience Such is the attention to detail, there could be no suggestion, improvement or “what if..” that you may have experienced in a get-away or round of golf.

Everything about Himmerland (as mentioned) deserves the maximum credit.

www.himmerlandgolf.dk

In searching for the finest in golf and golf travel, Himmerland delivers in a truly unique and gratifying way. From a purely aesthetic vantage point, it has a unique and definitely Danish charm and elegance – full of typical Danish wildlife and scenery. Every corner holds a little surprise and something to enjoy and the quality of care and finish - to everything - adds that something extra.

The golf challenge, as stated, is here in abundance and with a breadth and variety unmatched anywhere in Europe the longevity and longer visits are not only possible, but virtually a requirement! All facilities from fitness to feeding will astonish and surpass your expectations and that magic ingredient of ‘quality of service’ and management is possibly the greatest asset and most impressive feature!

I will certainly be returning to Himmerland Golf & Country Club and can happily recommend and award them the highest acclaim as one of Scandinavia’s stand-out and superb venues.

Himmerland Golf & Country Club Centervej 1, Gatten.

DK-9640 Farsø Denmark Phone: +45 96496100 hgcc@himmerlandgolf.dk www.himmerlandgolf.dk

Bookings: +45 96496100

FALSTER GOLF KLUB

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n searching for the great clubs and courses to enjoy and challenge in Scandinavia, Falster Golf Club (Danish: ) stood out and demanded its place as one of Denmark’s must play courses. It is located in Falster Island, Denmark, to the northwest of the village of Virket which is just over an hour’s drive from Copenhagen.

In today’s challenging economic environment, together with lots of choice, competition and differing challenges and activities, Golf clubs tick many boxes to thrive and succeed.

Falster Golf Club stands out as an experience and trip well worth making. Falster maintains its traditional roots, course and (most importantly) its commitment to the golfer and visitor. It feels as though Falster is forward thinking and looking ahead whilst keeping true to itself as a golf course and club.

It is an 18 hole park and forest course set out in stunning Danish countryside with all the natural charm and beauty to relax, calm and settle you whilst serving up a challenging course designed to push your game to its limit. Anders Amilon, the renowned Swedish course architect, designed the course to challenge on many levels whilst maintaining the look, feel and ambience of both the ‘forests of Skjørringe Estate’ (which it lays within) and that of Denmark itself.

It’s situated away from the hustle and bustle of busy life providing a tranquil escape and peaceful environment, no roads, airports or passing traffic to consider or disturb.

Denmark is a golfing nation which takes pride in the quality of course and service - Falster Golf Club, with the youngest (and one of the most progressive) golf managers in Denmark, Mads-Christian Brill Olsen, excels in both categories. The course is immaculate from beginning to end. The green keepers obviously take great pride in maintaining and improving the course to a very high standard while keeping their commitment to a natural and wildlife friendly area.

Deer, pheasants and hares enjoy the scenery and occasionally pass through the fairways adding to the experience. The course itself is lined by a stunning and ancient forest with a broad variety of trees, typically Danish and a pleasure to play through. The first nine holes are of a park course type and placed higher, with the back nine slightly lower and on beautiful moorland with forest and tight fairways in almost every direction. Your confidence grows through the round before meeting the infamous 11th hole - probably one of the toughest par 4’s in Denmark - and a real challenge to play.

Mads-Christian Brill Olsen: “Here you will almost never hear a car – only the sounds of the wildlife to accompany your round. It’s a true golf experience where nature adds extra challenges to your game” You need to build a respectable score in the first nine as the back nine – in particular the 11th,12th and 13th holes - definitely test you to the limits.

The 11th hole is greeted by a little dogleg right, quite tight (and the trees makes it look even worse), the need to surpass a stream in your drive. A long approach shot to a small green surrounded by trees and protected by a water hazard is needed, with only a small entrance to the left with a parallel water hazard on the left side of the green.

Achieving a bogey on this par four feels like an achievement, even elite players are happy to go from there with a bogey.

The 13th hole has a very tight fairway which may encourage you to play it safe. However, for most players that results in a rather long approach shot to the green.

It’s tactical, tough, beautiful and a fantastic risk reward hole.

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Mads-Christian: The 13th hole is my personal favourite and one of the most beautiful.

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Streams and natural hazards through the course make shot and club selection vital and although the course at between 5300m (women) and 6,140m on standard tees may not be the longest course available, its varied and thought provoking layout and feel mean it is an ultimate risk and reward course. Both long and short hitters will find reasons to come again and holes and shots to suit your game.

Precisely because of the varied and unpredictable nature of the course (for those golfers seeking to challenge themselves) aligned to a tranquil and impressive destination for either personal or commercial guests makes Falster Golf Club one of the finest golf experiences available in Denmark.

Most golfing experiences are made or lost in the first few minutes acclimatising and entering the club itself or checking in and relaxing after the journey.

The instant you enter Falster Golf Club, you are made to feel welcome, appreciated and very much part of the club. Although the grounds, club house, restaurant and facilities are great quality and well kept, there is only the warmest of warm greetings to meet you.

You will feel relaxed, at home and ready to enjoy either a memorable round of golf or a great stay in the grounds and in the cosy bed & breakfast facilities, indulging in welcoming cuisine at the Restaurant Køllegaarden.

Falster Golf club has the benefits of combining a top tier golf course, a welcoming cosy bed and breakfast and restaurant – all with excellent service throughout which is worth the visit all by itself. This means you can literally arrive, settle in and enjoy a couple of days break without the stress or need to drive home or make other reservations. You can enjoy a bottle or two of fine wine with friends and take in the best that Danish golf, golf holidays and Scandinavian hospitality has to offer!

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Mads-Christian: ...It’s not just a naturally very beautiful golf experience but also a great service experience Falster golf club is known for. We aim to develop the club and facilities to adjust to our members and guest expectations and needs…

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The Golf Manager, Mads-Christian has played at the club since he was 12 (and has won the same number of club championships in the process he hastens to add) has a background as a Bachelor in Business administration within the leisure industries so adds a commercial outlook to his obvious love of both the golfing side and experience for the golfer enjoying Falster. Attributes essential to cater for today’s discerning and demanding visitor.

www.falster-golfklub.dk Bookings: +45 54 43 81 43

The club pro, Rune J. Olsen is a many times National Champion of various tournaments including the ‘Danish Championship for teachers’ as well as representing Denmark at the European equivalent. His experience of both this course and techniques to improve your game are well worth exploring and another reason why Falster excels and stands out.

Falster Golf Club is a club in continuous development, there is a great focus on innovation and development – which given the high standard currently provided bodes well for the future of one of Denmark’s most established and challenging clubs.

Locals enjoy Falster Golf Club, its members indulge in the comfort and opulence it provides. Nature itself is nurtured and encouraged to be more than a back drop and actively adds to the course.

Visitors will feel welcomed and comfortable upon arrival and its list of facilities makes Falster Golf Club easily one of our recommended top clubs in Scandinavia.

Falster Golfklub Virketvej 44, 4863 Eskilstrup, Denmark Tel: +45 54 43 81 43 www.falster-golfklub.dk

AALBORG GOLF KLUB THE FINEST

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ew golf clubs and courses are always an exciting proposition, better still however is to have all those newly built benefits wrapped up with a pack or two of tradition, history and established charm. ’Aalborg Golf Klub’, situated in Northern Denmark, is one of Scandinavians hidden gems.

It’s Denmark’s second oldest club having recently celebrated its centenary in 2008 but feels modern, classy and in the top-tier of virtually standard of excellence.

With absolute certainty, Aalborg Golf Club features as one of our finest golf clubs in Scandinavia. Originally an 18 hole Championship Course designed by John D. Harris in the late ’60s, Aalborg has recently undergone a complete refurbishment of all its greens and tees. A further 9 holes have been added and integrated to the already superb, existing 18 holes resulting in 3 seperate 9-hole courses, which are rotated weekly to give one 18 hole course and one 9 hole course. In other words, the 18 hole course changes combination every week, effectively, you have a new 18 hole challenge each week.

Each 9 hole group has its own charm, challenge and individual features. These are carefully and beautifully managed holes on this exceptional course all adding that .

You finish your round completely wrapped up and captivated in the experience with an immediate twinge to return and play again. There are very few courses with that special indescribable magic.

Aalborg is distinctly Danish, though unique to its own geographical and elemental location. The weather, ground, climate and environment all play their part (together with expert management and maintenance) in creating a unique experience. Having enjoyed this marvellous course on three ocassions, each round was completely different and conjured its own personality to my game as though it was alive – changing windes, temperatures all adding to its mystique. It really is one of those courses that you must enjoy more than once to fully appreciate and understand.

All 27 holes, in whichever order- are superb. The fairways and greens immaculately and expertly cared for with the stunning Lake and woodland features brimming with natural beauty. Although its natural and designed beauty is obvious, Aalborg is not just for decoration. It is a course that wants to push your game to its absolute limit if you dare.

Aalborg has signature holes described and compared to the infamous ’Amen corner’ with some of its combinations.

A highlight, is the most picturesque par 3 Hole which forms one of the three best holes in Scandinavian, European – even World golf – courses. It brimms with stunning

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The clubhouse has recently undergone extensive renovation including a first class Proshop along with typical Danish Cuisine in our renowned restaurant. Danish meatballs are (in my view, obligatory) on any visit to Aalborg GC while sitting in the superb restaurant which overlooks one of the finest finishing holes in Danish golf.

The clubhouse itself is testament to the care, attention and spirit of the club. You are welcomed instantly, made to feel at home and comfortable.

Along with superb golf, any club seeking to reach the summit amongst its peers must provide both a challenging and enjoyable days visit where you leave mentally and physically satisfied and .

Aalborg, obviously makes the grade with infinite room to spare. The Stunning white exterior of the main building complimented with its dark slate roof, though of great architectural beauty, blend in to its surroundings so feel natural and in keeping. There is an unbelievable 26 bay driving range and a short game area which are worthy of a visit alone! Genuinely amongst the very best in the world.

Aalborg Golf club is enjoyable irrespective of your golfing prowess. Keen amateurs, tournament players and top professionals will all be pushed to the very limit. The European Challenge tour, European Team Challenge for girls as well as the European Championships for men have all been hosted by Aalborg to great success. Its layout – in any combination – is exciting and strategic, whilst ensuring your long and short game, big and regular hitters, competitive and friendly rounds and players are all happy and challenged.

… There is an unbelievable 26 bay driving range and a short game area which are worthy of a visit alone!

Genuinely amongst the very best anywhere in the world.

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The holes are clever in delivering tension filled decision making shots followed by spectacular drives and approaches. Relentless if you are seeking to score well, but not a bully if you’re looking to enjoy the round.

Aalborg prides itself on having the most successful mens team in Denmark with 11 championships in just 20 years. Testament, once again to both the unique and competitive challenge the course provides added to its quality of facilities and structure.

www.aalborggk.dk Bookings: +45 98 34 14 76

Aalborg Golf Club over the last 20 years has delivered many players to the Danish National team, and European Tour player Søren Kjeldsen is a product of Aalborg Golf Club along with ladies European Tour winner Lisa Holm Sørensen (Finish Open).

Every visitor is made to feel 100% comfortable from the moment you enter the grounds and the level of facility is only trumped by the quality of service filtered down from the faultless management. Every detail and part of the club has been considered and designed/ implimented to ensure each guest, visitor and obviously member enjoys every part of their experience. It truly is such a joy to play here and one experience we recommend you do when considering the finest golf in Scandinavia.

Aalborg city itself (as featured in the guide) provides numerous attractions and reasons to visit. At the absolute forefront of these is Aalborg Golf Club. It really is worth the airfare and investment in time to play (and play again) alone!

It’s serviced by the excellent Aalborg Airport just 20 minutes away and connected to most major European destinations so is convenient and easy to get to.

In selecting the very best, we were highly critical and standards/ expectations were at the highest level. Aalborg Golf Club is one pleasure you will undoubtably agree deserves its place at the very top of our recommendations. , golf, recreation, experience and charm combined with those uniquely Danish which make it a memorable and a ”must play-again” treat. It really is to go on a bucket list, more a .

Aalborg Golf Club Jaegersprisvej 35, Restup Enge DK-9000 Aalborg Denmark Telephone +45 98 34 14 76 Website www.aalborggk.dk

SKJOLDENAESHOLM GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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enmark is blessed with lots of interesting, scenic and relaxing courses. The facilities and architecture are typically characteristic and to a high standard which represents Denmark and her culture. Only a few can combine all of the best features to present unique, top-tier and those ultimate golf experiences we all strive for.

It may be difficult to pronounce (for non-Danes), but Skjoldenaesholm Golf Club and its two 18 hole courses, is worthy of being placed as one of the top golf clubs (and two of the finest courses) in Scandinavia - and presented in a confident and loud voice too for that matter.

Skjoldenaesholm, or “Skoli” as it is often referred, is located about 30 miles from Copenhagen and connected with excellent infrastructure to minimise travel time. As mentioned, it has two outstanding golf courses, the ‘Old’ and the Robert Trent Jones Jnr course of 2007.

Both courses run through the stunning Danish countryside, laden with lush, beautifully maintained and cared for grass, parkland and mature, old trees providing character, maturity and challenge in equal measure. The layout of the course has exploited these natural features to both encourage and foster wildlife and add spice and flavour to outstanding design and a unique golf adventure.

Robert Trent Jr. described his Skjoldenaesholm course as the ultimate in risk and reward experiences. “It’s an open, risk/ reward course framed by forests. My brief was to produce the flagship to Proark’s golf portfolio and worthy of wide recognition”.

He continues: “The natural layout employs wispy grasses and plant types to create interesting contrasts around the ground plane and meld with the natural setting.”

Jones has succeeded in producing a course to such a high level which blends effortlessly to its surroundings and feeling as though it is established over decades while fulfilling todays modern game and allowing for the technology driven longer hitters.

Skoli is as welcoming and friendly as it is an inspiring golf club and course. The grounds, and buildings though maintained and managed expertly do not deter or intimidate.

The feeling of acceptance and friendly smiles which greet all who visit immediately put you at ease. Everything in Skoli is designed and constructed with a vision and view to achieve the ultimate golf experience for the visitor, member and guest’s alike. Without exception, all staff couldn’t have been more friendly and the club without any pretention or grace, good practice and outstanding service obviously flowing through this club’s philosophy.

An historic rock wall, hundreds of years old was incorporated into the design and features as a hazard to many holes. This really adds an authentic and characterful feature to the course not to mention a difficult obstacle!

The course is uncluttered and undeveloped, running through unspoiled countryside with only a couple of picturesque old farm cottages which add to the charm and feel. With Jones Jr. the course has a strong US influence, but really manages to incorporate those distinct Danish natural features and even feels at the same time.

Being Danish, of course the water hazards are plentiful and picturesque. They do present extreme challenges for those able (and after long shots) as well as those more comfortable with regular shots. Being too brazen of course carries its own risk and your card will tell the tale, too cautious, and again, you will add to your score.

Strategic thinkers combined with a mixture of shots should produce a respectable card, but Skoli is designed for golfers who want to play and enjoy a round of golf to remember.

Holes 13, 14 and 15 run adjacent to an area of natural beauty and consequently Jones Jr. was unable to construct any permanent or “unnatural” feature – which included bunkers. An ingenious solution was applied which has made Skoli a superbly clever and unique course. Grass defences built on valleys and hollows were used and created - genuinely adding something different while maintaining the difficulty and managing to produce an even greater hazard than if a bunker or two were present. These holes are stunning in their look, feel and also in the questions they apply to your round.

Skoli is a perfect blend of golf challenge with a relaxing, comfortable and memorable experience.

The facilities are superb and faultless in their service and level of quality. The management is exceptional and obviously in keeping with a feeling of excellence throughout.

It’s a visit worth making and enjoying, both courses deserve to be played, not simply the excellent ‘Jones’ and the experience warrants a long weekend of indulgence and exceptional golf and service quality. It’s one of Jones Jr.’s finest courses which has developed and grown into one of Europe’s finest. It’s still relatively unknown in broad terms, however will undoubtedly grow in stature and popularity as its secret escapes. For quality and sheer golf brilliance, it’s as good as it gets.

Skoli (or Skjoldenaesholm) Golf Club, not just a name, but an awesome game.

www.golfers.dk Bookings: Tel +45 5753-8810

was the first course in Denmark to feature multiple teeing areas.

“The…Skoli 7,100 yard layout is all about position. ”

Skjoldenaesholm Golf Club Jystrup 4174 Ringsted Phone(s): +45 5753-8810, info@golfers.dk Website: http://www.golfers.dk//

SILKEBORG RY GOLF KLUB THE FINEST

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ilkeborg Ry Golf Club is situated in Resenbro just East of Silkeborg and in the part of Denmark known as the “lake district of Jutland”. It is an awesome woodland course, reminiscent of Woburn in the UK, founded in 1966 and easily finds itself as some of the finest golf courses in Scandinavia – let alone Denmark.

Silkeborg features 54 holes including a pay and play facility and is renowned for its famous par 3 holes. It is Denmark’s largest golf resort and its reputation for quality and excellence is not diminished by its number of holes, facilities and area.

The three courses, The ‘West’, ‘South’ and ‘East’ courses provide three different and memorable rounds and experiences and when combined, seriously produce something special and unique in Europe. All three courses have their own unique attributes and features and differ in challenges, strategies and the different games golfers bring to each round.

In 2007, Thomas Bjørn, Silkeborg’s most cherished son, 14 times European Tour winner and a Ryder Cup Great, oversaw a major development at the club. The Silkeborg Course was developed to the East – adding a further 9 holes to the existing 18 and more importantly adding a different dimension to an already superb course layout. Bjørn’s experience both of a top, top, professional and perhaps more so of this spectacular area have contributed to produce a very special course. For those of you familiar with the Great Dane and his panache on the course, you can feel his influence and understanding during the round.

The old front nine is known as the ‘West’ course.

Seven of the back nine (and two new holes), the terrific 3rd and 4th holes form the new ‘South’ course, whilst the old 10th and 11th holes have been joined by the seven new holes on the brand new ‘East’ course.

It may appear on first viewing a little complicated to read. To play, it works seamlessly – as though it has always been this way and it flows exactly as you might want it to. The holes fit each other and challenge and reward you hole by hole – irrespective which course you play.

The planning and design is on a different level and it is championship class in its structure.

Great fun to play, always challenging your game and making you take risks whilst testing your long and short games.

The ‘West’ course features a 411 yard par 4 cracker! The 7th Hole includes three cross bunkers in the fairway, just in the landing area from your elevated tee shot. The fairway kinks to the right presenting you with the green and its bunker and tree guard and protectorate… A great hole in the midst of an equally tough 5th, 6th and 8th hole combination.

The ‘South’ courses 8th hole is another highlight in a course laden with adventure and its new modern holes designed to accommodate the longer hitters and short game specialists alike. This 540 yard, par 5 monster is worth the green fee alone and will stay with you long after – definitely one to discuss afterwards!

You drive down a corridor of trees to a fairway that doglegs right, leading to a green guarded by three bunkers, unforgiving and tempting at the same time.

The ‘East’ courses 5th hole, also a recent addition, features one of the famous par 3’s that Silkeborg is famous for. It’s a 195 yard favourite that the members remark as the hole they possibly enjoy the most and enjoy playing most often. It’s easy to see why. This picturesque hole has water to the right and a bunker to the far left. It punishes any deviation in your drive but the feeling of achievement when you hit it straight and approach the green is priceless.

All said, the stunning natural features are complimented by the expert maintenance and careful management of the grounds. With so many holes and three courses to keep pristine, it’s remarkable that Silkeborg manage such an exquisite and professional venue.

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Thomas Bjorn at Silkeborg y Golf

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www.srgolf.dk Bookings: +45 86 85 33 99

Above: Bjorn (again!)

Left: Magnificent 5th

It looks as good as it plays – and it plays superbly.

Consistent throughout and seamless play is to be enjoyed along each of the three courses.

Silkeborg Ry Golf Club's impressive restaurant has undergone a major renovation. The beautiful facilities on the first floor overlook the golf course providing fines dining of the highest order and an experience to match. From the roof terrace you also have views of one of Denmark's most beautiful golf courses – a sublime retreat to enjoy a glass or two of your favourite indulgence and discuss your round with friends or business partners.

It’s a terrific venue and for the breadth and variety of available golf courses, its quality of grounds and facilities and the practical and enjoyable nature, Silkeborg is an ideal choice for long or short break and an absolute must during your Danish vacation.

SILKEBORG RY GOLFKLUB Sommervej 50, 8600 Silkeborg +45 86 85 33 99 welcome@srgolf.dk Silkeborg-course Sommervej 50, 8600 Silkeborg Kildebjerg Ry-course Skovagervej 200, 8680 Ry

LYNGBYGAARD GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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Lyngbygaard golf club was founded in 2008 and is located just 5 km or so away from Aarhus – Denmarks second city in the stunning countryside which makes this part of the world so absolutely charming and endearing.

Its convenience and ease of access is obviously a major draw, but the show stopper and asset is the of the Golf club and the exceptional challenge of the golf to be enjoyed here.

Upon entering the club, the maintenance, design and beauty hits you instantly – this is a club where the look and feel has been carefully thought through to ensure the visitor and member golfers are treated to not only a great day’s golf – but a pleasurable and quality day out too.

The first 18 holes opened in 2008 and was designed by renowned golf architect, Rick Baril. Baril’s courses are always known for their attention to detail, their flair and also a touch and thought to history and the traditional sense of the game whilst keeping up with modern trends. Baril learnt his trade alongside Von Haage, Devlin and Smelek – all established and great course designers. Baril himself describes Lyngbygaard as a ”compendium of Von Haage, Smelek and Baril, Michael Moller and Thomas Bjorn joining forces to create 27 great holes of golf”.

The original 18 holes are considered the premier assortment from the available 27 with a varied and stunning combination and sequence of holes designed to test and push you around the course – full of questions, posers and tricks along the way. The shorter 9 hole course was added in late 2009 and plays through a forested area with a “twisted – tighter - loop” that is filled with water hazards and perilous obstacles.

It really is a terrific accompaniment and addition to the 18 hole course and well worth the fun to play.

THE FINEST

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The original 18 hole course measures a meaty (c.) 6,500meters in length and is a testing par 72. You can feel the influence of the afore-mentioned Bjorn and Baril signature holes which are both clever and charismatic to play.

Jens Christensen describes the 18 hole course as two distinctly different halves of golf. “The first nine are played on a flat, open area, while the last nine runs through a hilly, wooded area” and that “golfers need to be sharp with different wedges to hold their score together”.

The back nine plays especially well and closing four holes in particular. To play the 15th -18th holes in sequence has to be one of the great golf experiences to be enjoyed in Scandinavia!

The 15th and 17th are one shot holes – the former playing uphill to a sand encircled green to the left and right and the latter, again uphill but to an island-like green requiring immense concentration and a steady and accurate approach.

The 16th is a strategic par four that dog-legs to the right. It is testing, teasing and with a surprise or two – it plays as mentioned like a Thomas Bjorn hole should: Tenacious, clever and with charm. It will reward your accuracy on the fairway with a pleasing shot to green, but similarly punish you if you stray to the rough or land in a bunker. Sadly, I failed and took three to the green following my visit in the bunker – my after round drink consoled me as it seemed I was not the first – and surely not the last to tell the same tale! J Finishing on the 18th hole is both a pleasure and genuine challenging par 5 beast of a hole! It’s a long 5 shots, playing uphill to the largest green on the course – the green itself is guarded by bunkers and is intimidating in the flesh. Reaching the hole on par is an achievement and experienced and decent golfers will struggle to avoid a lost shot here – a real gem of a hole.

THE FINEST

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All throughout the course, the grounds are well kept, meticulously and expertly maintained with the emphasis on both quality and a natural feeling – which although is in keeping with nature, is definitely a golfers-golf course.

The club house is an outstanding piece of modern architecture. It is built into the land so that it’s impact doesn’t look out of place. It is made with natural and sympathetic materials so that it looks as though it has been here for many years and yet it is at the cutting edge of technology and modern golf design. It is packed with all the mod-cons and facilities a top, top golf club needs these days if it is ever to be considered as a great course. Everything from your first welcome (from Lyngbygaard’s well trained, friendly and professional staff) through the excellent food and drink and outstanding practice facilities are catered for at the highest level and standard of excellence.

You are made to feel like a valued and established member of the club by both the emplyees and the other golfers. It really is part of the culture of Lyngbygaard Golf club which has filtered down to everyone here – into the magnificent building you enjoy after the great golf.

An exceptional days golf in the most stunning surroundings, surpassed only by the ‘second to none’ service which will, leave you ready to come again, soon.

Lynygbygaard Golf Club, Lyngbygårdsvej 29 , 8220 Brabrand Tel: +45 8744-1070 Web: www.lyg.dk

Best things to do in Denmark…

…holiday in North Denmark Denmark is a country steeped in vivid history and one which is blessed with some of the world’s most spectacular and beautiful scenery as well as numerous attractions and places to indulge yourself in. Northern Denmark is probably Denmark’s stand out region which boasts the highlights of these.

The natural landscape and coastline will take your breath away and the countryside, full of tranquil and stunning scenery will allow you breathe it all back in! There is plentiful and some of the world’s best golfing experiences to be enjoyed all locally (as we have outlined in our Danish section), so travelling locally to spoil yourself with any number of highlights and memorable destinations in Northern Denmark is an absolute must!

North Denmark allows visitors to enjoy the sight of the sun rising over the Kattegat and, without travelling far, in the evening at the west coast, witness the unique sunset, so celebrated - all within the same day.

The acclaimed Skagen painters, Michael Ancher and P. S. Krøyer were both fascinated and virtually obsessed with the natural and uniquely occurring light and landscape such is the rare and inspiring combination. Photographers, painters and simply those seeking a get-away and treasured vacation will find something to admire and enjoy.

Whether the golfing greats take your fancy, or just luxuriating with the natural treasures, culture or even the great food and drink Northern Denmark bestows, there is something for everyone here.

Numerous galleries, museums and crafts workshops are available to culture hungry visitors with the famed ceramics, glass wear, candles and paintings on offer. The renowned amber works and products as well as the antique fairs and availability - which include some of the finest anywhere in Europe can be found here.

This is an area where many of the native artists, craftsmen and “beautiful” people settle, so it is bursting with character and much of the very best aspects of this most welcoming and naturally friendly country.

Families can seek out the world class Aalborg Zoo, the Nordsøen Oceanarium - where you’re literally inches away from the rare and incredible sea life which it supports and aids in conservation projects - the Thy National Park as well as dozens of fun parks, museums and places of interest and prestige. The castles, stately homes and residences are rich in History, Højriis Castle, Kokkedal Castle, Voergaard Castle are just three highlights from an impressive and inspiring list of unique and classic destinations.

As part of your visit to Northern Denmark, visit www.visitnordjylland.com to gather a list of places to go and highlights to visit. You can be assured of a most welcoming and charming country with a range of activities just too good to miss.

www.visitnordjylland.com

Best things to do in Denmark…

…visit Aalborg North Jutland is bursting with highlights and things and places to do and to visit. Right at the very top of this list, has got to be Aalborg itself. It is a city which is comfortable with its position as one of Europe’s best, most interesting, picturesque, safest, cleanest and most welcoming cities!

Aalborg Golf and Himmerland Golf clubs are close by and absolute “must plays” so combining a visit seems not only sensible, but practical too. Aalborg has a lot to offer. Not only if you would like to go shopping but also if you would like to take part in Aalborg's many cultural events. At Aalborg's new waterfront, you have the option of eating well while you follow the life on the Limfjord.

In Aalborg, you can experience a lot of good events for kids and adults all year around. Whether a good vacation for you means interesting attractions, hours of shopping, world class gastronomy or good, cultural experiences Aalborg has something to surpass your expectations.

Aalborg is full of things to do and the more you seek, the more gems you will find. Aalborg is a party for the senses - and the shopping gene! In the centre of Aalborg, you will find a comprehensive selection of specialty stores next to large department stores. Here you will find the famous large pedestrian shopping streets - Bispensgade and Algade - with some boutique streets attached for added interest.

Great culinary experiences await you in Aalborg.

There are restaurants for every taste, whether you want to try the modern Danish kitchen, the Asian kitchen or classic French cuisine. Along the water front, you will find a rich selection of restaurants, where you can enjoy good food and the beautiful view over Limfjorden. Do you just need a well earned rest, Aalborg can offer you a wide selection of cafĂŠs where you can enjoy a good cup of coffee.

There are restaurants and cafĂŠs for every taste, so drop by and taste the city!

www.visitaalborg.com

Getting there.

…Aalborg Airport

Aalborg Airport is the 3rd largest in Denmark and on May 29, 2013 celebrated its 75th anniversary with an expanded and modern terminal.

Aalborg Airport's new terminal building has completely renovated and totally modernised its entire 12,000m2 area + 7,000m2 of additional facilities - Improved check-in, a significantly larger tax-free shopping area of c. 500m2, superb new departure and arrival lounges and 1,000 new parking spaces.

The business traveller is now comprehensively served by top quality meeting areas, for business meetings and an easy 15 minute connection to Aalborg City Centre, by bus, taxi or hire car, via one of the 5 rental agencies located at the airport.

Remember however, kisses are not permitted for more than 3 minutes. http://www.aal.dk/en/

Miklagard Golf Club

In Norway, all golf clubs but one are organized within the Norwegian Golf Federation (NGF). The NGF is the third largest federation within Norwegian sports. With a total of 114,000 memberships spread over 183 golf clubs, the federation facilitates golf offers regardless of age, skills and preconditions.

The NGF has the responsibility and authority to develop the Norwegian elite golf through the national teams and age-specific teams between the ages of 13 and 18. The federation translates the Rules of Golf, funds research for better turf and a better environment and maintains the handicap system. NGF reports to the Golf Assembly consisting of representatives from the golf clubs.

If you want to come to Norway to play golf, keep in mind that most Norwegian golf courses are products of the environment and the Nordic climate. On the south-west coast, you can normally play all year round, but for most courses, the season starts in early may and ends some time in October/November depending on when the frost sets in.

Although Norway in many ways is a small country the distance from south to north is considerable. With a three hour flight from south till north, golfers who visit the country are well advised to plan ahead which courses they would like to visit.

NGF will not recommend any courses above others, but there are a number of courses that stand out, both in relation to the beauty of it´s surroundings and the quality of the golf course.

http://www.golfforbundet.no/

THE FINEST GOLF CLUBS IN NORWAY THE FINEST

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BYNESET GOLF CLUB

MELAND GOLF CLUB

MIKLAGARD GOLF CLUB OSLO GOLF CLUB

BORRE GOLF CLUB STAVANGAR GOLF CLUB

BORRE GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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Consistently ranked in the top courses of Norway, Borre Golf Club ( ) is a prime example of that represents the golf experiences in Scandinavia.

Located approx. 90km from Oslo and close to the Swedish border on the South-Eastern edge of Norway, Borre is as fetching to the eye as it is challenging to the golf enthusiast.

Flyers can access Torp Airport which lies about 20km away and drivers will take about an hour’s drive from Oslo, so it’s both easy to get to and far enough away to enjoy the freedom and tranquillity it contains.

Tommy Nordstrom is credited with the design in 1991, however in 2005 the course underwent a massive modernisation and layout change. Nine superb new holes were added and the course was re-routed with the sole aim to push the limits, increase playability and extend the golfing experience for all levels of player. “New Borre” ( compliments and adds to the original “Gamle Back Nine” layout to achieve a new, modern ‘golfers-golf-course!’

I was, sadly, unable to play the original design so cannot compare with any real degree of accuracy, however, what remains is stunning to the eye and full of superb holes, all sequenced cleverly to test, push and ask questions of your game –

This “new” course, consists of 6,891 yards of adrenaline filled golf, all squeezed into a picturesque and aesthetically remarkable park land and forest scape - par 72.

It’s tough and difficult to reach and break par, but full of surprises and risk-reward holes. A high level of thought and technical know-how has been invested into the course to make certain that it’s worthwhile on every level.

Big hitters will be delighted in pushing their game and finding routes to glory and short game wizards (a little like myself) will equally enjoy the tactical side of the course and the more finesse inspired lines. It genuinely provides a great experience for experienced golfers and starters alike, who play for the pleasure and relaxation – not perhaps .

The landscape is typical of the region and full of beauty and Norwegian charm with the ancient forest and softwoods seamlessly merging and adding to the lush parkland. It doesn’t try to be an American or British course, but remains true and sympathetic to ‘who and what’ it is. A superb, top-tier Norwegian masterpiece!

The 5th, 6th and 7th holes are exceptional par 4’s and exhilarating in sequence – pushing you to your limits without respite.

The 5th hole – “FERGEMANNEN” in particular is an absolute masterpiece, played from an elevated tee with water completely down the left hand side, leading to a narrow entrance to the island green.

Stunning to look at, but even better to play!

Any margin for error almost eliminated in your quest to reach the green without fishing for your ball…

Hole 6, “BORREVANNET”, though only 325 yards is equally challenging with water placed immediately in front of the green to catch any under-hit approaches and undulating sides all around to punish a wayward strike.

The seventh, “SANDODDEN” is a right hand dog leg which leads to a raised green protected by two bunkers like sentry men.

Terrific holes all three but inspired course layout when played after each other and worth the visit by themselves!

All along the front and back nine each hole is placed with thought and consideration and the break at the 10th hole, beside Lake Borre provides a welcome half-way house beside the magnificent ‘Semb Manor House’, a gem of an opportunity to take in and enjoy the scenery as well as the excellent snacks and drinks available there.

The 15th is also well worthy of a mention, the almost 300 yard par 4 plays beautifully, but I adored it more-so for the absolute beauty of the hole, a joy to play and behold.

All over the course there are challenges and holes of real note, great by themselves but exceptional as an 18 hole experience. The grounds are manicured and maintained expertly – exactly what you would expect from a course which has hosted top ranking tournaments for professionals and world class players. Attention to detail and meticulous husbandry of the rough and kept fairways is testament to the quality and high standards of green keepers and ground managers.

The fairways are without exception challenging (and punishing) to wayward or lazy drives, the greens are ALL true and honest. They play consistently and though (perhaps a little fast) never leave you feeling cheated. Those birdie putts will go down if you play bravely enough and strike true - absolutely essential in any golf course and for any serious round of golf.

This course is easily one of Scandinavia’s best to play and experience for both recreational and serious golfers. It rewards a risk taker but is just as happy for you to play though with a leisurely round and relaxing party or business jaunt.

Practice facilities and locker rooms are superb as is the fantastic club house – everything has been well thought out and managed to perfection to ensure you are made to feel welcome, comfortable and at ease from the beginning. The ethos of the club is warm and friendly and the staff obviously takes pride in the club – it seems to be inbuilt that they want you to leave having experienced one of Norway’s best golf clubs.

A real gem of a club and course, full of surprises and quality throughout. I look forward to visiting once again soon and am certain you will be busy making plans for a second visit. Lots of memorable and superb holes which linger in the mind and demand “just another go”.

Borre Golf Club Semb Hovedgaard N-3186 Horten, Norway http://www.borregb.no/ Tel: +47 416 27 000 EMail: borregb@online.no

OSLO GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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With a fabulous entrance drive through the grounds and a spectacular club house, warm, friendly smiles welcome you to the oldest Golf club in Norway – Oslo Golf Club.

Situated just a few kilometres Northwest of Oslo, in Bogstad lays one of the finest golf courses and clubs we have had the pleasure to visit. Because of its proximity to the capital city (it actually lies within the city limits) it is a must play and frequently enjoyed course, though it never feels busy and you’re never rushed around the course. The entire operation is however, run like clockwork and expertly and professionally managed to ensure you genuinely enjoy every minute you indulge in this great course.

It was formed in 1924 and although it has had various re-developments to bring it into line with the modern game requirements, it has remained true to its traditional and excellent history, providing one of the most challenging, mature courses you are likely to find in Scandinavia.

The first thing you will note is the tremendous attention to detail and how well the grounds are managed. Every shrub, bush and tree in the grounds has been expertly cared for and manicured.

The greens and fairways are without exception lush, healthy and even during harsh weather periods, always maintaining their excellent best. The rough is as you would anticipate from a championship course – tricky, hazardous and placed mischievously – the greens all perfect like a billiards table and they play fast and true – perfect for hitting those birdie putts on!

The challenging 15th hole

Oslo’s superb 17th hole

The renovation and course works in 2008 have had a massive impact and benefited this great course. Steve Forrest – an exceptionally well regarded American golf course designer was brought in to bring this stately course in line with the big hitting technology game most courses and players demand these days (without forgetting the tactical short game fans).

The practical necessities were not (despite massive investment) forgotten. Triple drainage, a fully automated irrigation system, ‘sub-air’ under every green – the list goes on – practically all technological advances in golf courses were implemented to make Oslo GC one of Europe’s most modern and advanced playing areas. In spite of these assets, the grounds men and green keepers are evident in their care and passion for the course and in keeping a touch with Mother Nature. The entire grass scape has been replanted with ‘bent grass’, a relatively new introduction which despite its notorious difficulty in planting and maintaining provides the rich, velvety surface we enjoy and golfers prefer on modern courses for bounce and consistency in-play.

This new course tips its hat to the traditional values and best of the old design whilst bringing in a whole new sphere and challenge. It is laid around Lake Bogstad, a stunning and beautiful natural feature. Many holes have the Lake (not only as a back drop to impress) but as a hazard to tempt and threaten your score card with.

The par 71 championship course measuring about 6300 m is a truly unique design with long par 3s and water coming into play on several holes. The view of the waterfall on the 12th hole right next to the green a particular highlight.

The paradox of being Norway’s oldest golf facility whilst including the newest and advanced features is one Forrest, I’m certain insisted upon. It appears to be a theme of constant surprises that you will experience and enjoy throughout the 18 holes. Straight forward holes on first glance actually dog-leg and spindle and long thin fairways await with undulation and natural hazards abundant and in waiting. Long hitters armed with carbon fibre shafts and the like will indulge in stretching their shoulders on the longer holes, whilst their short and iron play will be tested equally. It is a course of surprises and tactics and one full of pleasure, rewarding the keen and adventurous whilst allowing the recreational golfer to take in a beautiful and memorable round of top-tier golf.

Oslo’s 11h hole

Top to bottom: 9th ,6th & 14th Holes

Oslo GC is a regular host course to the Norwegian Masters and is amongst the favourites for the Solheim Cup in 2019 so its credentials and CV absolutely speaks for itself in terms of sheer quality and challenge.

Any preconceptions you may have had about this old lady of golf courses in Norway will be absolutely dispelled. Though she may have class, tradition and history in her armoury in addition to the statesman-like feel, she appears to wear something a little more daring underneath!

In terms of simply the golf challenge, the tee positions will either push your game to the very limits or be full of risk and danger on every hole. Conversely, it also provides a relaxing and subtle round for the less adrenaline filled or competitive golfer or golf round.

The 11th, 12th and 13th holes are my particular favourites - The green placements are very clever and when placed after each other will give you a real buzz. The par 3 11th requires a very accurate drive onto the green – which is no mean feat given its height and feel. The putt will be a pleasure or a nightmare – mine the latter after a slightly wayward approach… The 12th a relatively long par 4 350 yard beast which will punish any deviation on your swing with a procession of trees to the left and a raised green at the end of a dog-leg to the left protected by bunkers on every side.

Perhaps the 13th is one of the prettier holes on a very picturesque course. The lake welcomes and threatens at the same time at the end of the green and will swallow up any long hit shots which find their way at the back of the green. The par4 300 yard hole looks straight forward enough; however your raised tee shot will be tested and punished if your length and accuracy is off by even a few metres!

Apparently Forrest’s pick of the holes is the 14th – another Lake side hole and one with mischief in it’s design. The 320 yard par 4 is a combination of long drive with the lake to the left aiming slightly to the right to the safety of the fairway (whilst trying to avoid the trees) that protect the sharp left hand placed green which sits immediately beside the Lake again. Should you manage to reach the green safely, a line of four bunkers await you and combined with a raised area on the right and slope to the water on the left hand side, the hole couldn’t be any more difficult or pleasing (depending on how it went!).

Personality, surprise and a deliberate attempt to push and pull your game make this historic and modern day club such a ironic masterpiece! All the pleasures of 21st century golf with a feel of the 1920’s in one place.

The club house is packed full of state of the art facilities and the restaurant and changing areas superbly fitted. The staff are amongst the very best we have enjoyed and together, the Oslo Golf club experience is an overwhelmingly terrific experience for competitive and visiting golfers alike.

MIKLAGARD GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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I

n 2002 an ultra-ambitious aim to create one of the world’s great golf clubs was started in Miklagard, Norway.

Just north of the capital city, Oslo, Miklagard literally translates as “The Great City” – fitting then that such a project would seek to emulate the city name it resides in. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. Miklagard Golf Club is as spectacular as it is challenging.

A tournament layout with so many highlights and plaudits that we can barely find sufficient pages to do this great club justice. It is easy to get to by air being close to the new Gardermoen International Airport which connects to most major cities in Europe and beyond.

In our seeking Norway’s finest golf experiences, essentially, we wanted to find golf that would be comparable (or superior) to any other golf facility, venue or course anywhere in the world. Miklagard’s intention was to be great, to host major tournaments to be a flagship player in the European Tour calendar.

It has achieved this role and then some with both the quality of its facilities (which are incredible) and the challenge of such a unique and playable course.

Miklagard absolutely justifies its position as (in our opinion) Norway’s stand out and must play golf course.

It beams with confidence from every aspect and by any perspective. The entrance is inspiring and oozes a quality and feel that instantly introduces itself as something special. The quality of its grounds are immaculate and tended with the utmost care. This is especially difficult given the Norwegian climate and its own unique challenges.

Its ranking and justification as a great Golf venue can be felt as you enter the unique Club House. It is distinctly and deliberately Norwegian. Proud of its culture, design and boasting of its architecture from the classic wooden beams through to the tower. The natural grass laden roof is something we have never encountered before but provides a talking point and stands out to present Miklagard as something different and a Golf club which is prepared to push the boundaries – both literally and hypothetically.

It is comfortably considered one of Scandinavia’s top 10 golf courses, and we can only endorse this view with an upgrade that it could hold itself in terms of sheer golfing genius against any course in Europe.

The Peugeot Golf guide rate Miklagard as the number 1 course in Norway, Golf Digest as its number 2, Swedish Golf magazine confirm it easily makes their top 5 courses in Nordic countries and the list could go on and on. It really is impressive in every single aspect and will take your breath away.

Professional golfers adore the challenge Miklagard offers. It’s a brutal that 6,765 meters in length (7516 yards) so will satisfy long hitters, strategic players and those with modern, technology filled golf bags looking to extend and push their game to its limits.

Regular and keen amateur golfers too will find this course (probably) the best golf experience they have ever encountered.

There is something there for all types of player, but make no mistake, this is a golfers course and one which doesn’t take prisoners. It will ultimately reward your game when you take risks and punish your caution and fear. Tee placement is critical and our advice is to start without any ego, then return to see how good you really are!

In terms of golfing joy, it doesn’t get any better than this! You will have to return and play again, and given the unique layout and those things you just cannot find anywhere else, for those golfers looking for the ultimate thrill, it is worthy of your time investment and a visit even if you play no other Norwegian course.

Although it is recognised and ranked as highly as it is, Miklagard is almost to be considered a hidden gem given its sheer scope and game. It is truly comparable to any course – anywhere.

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In Miklagard we have the best greens I have ever played on Trevor Immelmam

”

The greens are immaculate, fairways expertly maintained. The grounds in their entirety are managed with precision and developed in keeping with its ‘great’ and world class venue status. Deep bunkers and the lay of the land protect the greens presenting almost every hole with the challenge of pushing all aspects of your game.

Both Seve’s short game and Tiger’s power game is needed - no pressure then?

www.miklagardgolf.no Bookings: Tel +47 63 94

The changes in elevation combined with the length, really make this something else. As mentioned, the fairways and green are honest and true so when you do get your shots right, the course responds consistently and fairly. It is everything you would expect from a great course and from an extraordinary experience.

The facilities, the club house and most pertinently the service here are second to none and managed from the top down with effortless ease and sublime attention. It is no overstatement to say that every member of staff will greet you with a welcoming and friendly smile which feels genuine, and it probably is. The Norwegian culture comes through to all who visit and the “glad to see you, please come in” warmth belies its often chilly climate.

Given that the course was opened in 2002, it looks remarkably mature and natural. The scenery is spectacular and inspiring It is typically Norwegian and though adds an element of class does not look or feel pretentious. You will feel relaxed and a ease and taking in the surroundings only adds to this great feeling. As the course develops and grows in stature (as i undeniably will) Miklagard will only become a greater and greater experience which is a frightening prospect.

As Jones Jr.’s first Norwegian golf project, Miklagard has set the bar of achievement impossibly high. Trent Jones himsel stated: "This breathtaking 6,707-meter golf course is set in a beautiful farming landscape, its grasses burnished with northern summer sun and glistening in the champagne snow of winter. This is a big, brash course as impressive as its Norwegian Viking history. It takes fierce, strong men to match its hilly terrain, and beautiful Nordic ladies to equal the charm of it lake-lined and flower-laden attractions. We are proud to welcome Miklagard into our worldwide family of golf courses."

And in the words of Craig Dyce, the General Manager of PGA European Tour Courses, "We firmly believe that in Miklagard we have become involved in the premier golf facility in Norway. This goes right from your wonderful golf course to th first-class practice facilities and the welcoming clubhouse."

In case this isn't praise enough, touring professional Trevor Immelman has commented that Miklagard possesses the bes greens he's ever played on. Management values the conditions of these greens so deeply that they will fine any player found without a divot tool, and eject any player who carries one but doesn't use it. It may appear harsh, but when you see the cours for your self – you will absolutely agree that this is a marvel to play and an experience to savour and look forward to treating yourself to again and again.

The marvellous Miklagard Golf Club.

Miklagard Golf Postboks 87, 2041 Kløfta Email: elisa@miklagardgolf.no Web: www.miklagardgolf.no Tel +47 63 94 31 00

STAVANGAR GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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N

orway is fast becoming a must play golf country with unexplored and breath-taking courses, unique and exclusive to its native environment and culture.

Stavanger golf club – Norway’s fifth oldest golf club – founded 5th April 1956, stands out as easily one of the best and a must play course on your Norwegian adventure!

Stavanger really is a golfer’s course. Designed with challenge in mind and made to push your shot-making and shot-itinerary. It’s a beautifully situated beside Lake Store Stokkavatn and just a few minutes away from the town centre, though you would never know it!

It has a rich history of hosting major championships including the Norwegian (18 times), the Nordic (2), Norwegian Open Championships (1) as well as the European Ladies Championships (1) so obviously pushes both keen amateurs and serious players in equal measure.

Its course layout is made to surprise and challenge you equally, without being pretentious.

You can still enjoy the scenery (and your company) and meander your way through the course if you so desire, but for those of you who like the challenge of a new course, or one which favours the brave, Stavanger is a real treat.

The course has undergone an extensive renovation and modernisation programme at a cost of some 40million NOK, and this hard and costly work shows all over the course.

The greens and fairways are terrifically maintained year round. The climate presents its own unique blend of challenges, but in our experience you simply would not know it.

It is a modern, year round course, superb narrow fairways and good, dry, undulating greens which add to the challenge.

It has a par 71 and weighs in at just under 6000m so can be an enjoyable experience for both amateurs, short and long hitters. The rough, though fearsome, is well maintained. Even a wayward shot shouldn’t result in a lost ball (or two!).

The course is primarily about precision hitting, of course the length of your drive is a consideration, but not an ultimatum like many courses.

Your short game too – and perhaps more so is tested here. Intricate and challenging greens where placement and finesses is balanced against the modern need for ‘mile long drives’.

It’s the sort of course Seve Ballesteros would enjoy and want to play I’m sure.

As with all of our recommended and must play courses and clubs, the course is only 50% of the attraction. The general feeling and welcome, your comfort and ability to relax – either beforehand, during or after the round is imperative.

If, like me, golf isn’t always about hitting the course within seconds of arriving, blasting the ball from nondescript tees on forgetful (if pretty) parks, Golf clubs like Stavanger are perfect.

The general feeling of a relaxed and welcome introduction making you feel at ease straight away is presented to you when you turn into these stunning grounds.

Although it is close by the town of Stavanger, it feels like a million miles away. , to interfere No distractions, or bother you and you feel transported to a peaceful recluse where golf is king.

Holes 3 and 17 – two cracking par 3’s are worth the visit in themselves. You savour these two holes. They are comparable to any other world class course and though distinctly Norwegian could adorn any major championship with their clever and feisty demands.

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Holes 3 and 17 – two cracking par 3’s are worth the visit in themselves. You must savour these two holes.

”

The bunkers are placed around the greens making both selection and the making of shots a real process. You genuinely need to know both your game and your limits to prevail.

www.sgk.no Tel +47 63 94 31 00 The restaurant and bar (both newly built) are exceptional. Quality of food, drink, and perhaps most telling, the service – are second to none. It really is a pleasure to enjoy a meal here with a fine bottle of wine after a memorable round of the finest golf. All of the staff here will make you feel at home and assist you if required without hesitation. These days, golf clubs need to be more than just a round of golf – numerous attributes and qualities are compared and considered when deciding who and where to play. All boxes will be ticked at Stavanger – seriously.

Stavanger has been compared in similar terms to Augusta with its flower arrangements, stone bridges, scenery and attention to detail.

All fairly accurate due to the care, investment and sheer quality of grounds and decoration/ features.

For me, however, it is unique in its charm and has its own aura. An absolute charm, full of stunning scenery and presence, kept magnificently and a welcome visit for either a business get together, friendly four ball or just a must play round of golf at a course worth travelling to Norway for.

Distinctly Stavanger.

Stavanger Golfklubb

MELAND GOLF KLUBB THE FINEST

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B B U L K F L O G D N MELA Norway has proven to be full of surprises exquisite golf clubs and courses with a character and charm unique to its environment and culture.

Encapsulating all the very best features is Meland Golf Club, located in Frekhaug, just to the North of Bergen and set in amongst the most beautiful fjord and Norwegian forest setting.

Regularly ranked in the top handful of clubs in Norway it’s easy to see why. Its mountainous, rugged and ancient forest landscape is stunning – combined with the majestic fjords which line the course, this is a real head turner from beginning to end. , charismatic features; unique to Norway, provide a unique golf experience which you will use as a benchmark for all future golf expeditions.

It is a relatively new course having been designed by Robert A Hunt in 1999, but although it contains all of the essential modern day criteria from holes capable of allowing the modern technology filled golf bags (with the extra drive lengths) – together with all mod-cons and facilities the modern day golfer and traveller demands – it looks and feels as though it has been part of the landscape for hundreds of years!

LF K MELAND GO

LUBB

It is as beautiful and stunning as it is playable and challenging. Almost nowhere else in the world you could expect to find a course like this – it really is a course that will linger in your memory.

The par 73, (c.) 6,850 yard course is full of surprise and character and although we played after a rainy weekend, the course remained exquisite, lush, played beautifully and retained its shape and high standard on every hole and in every area of the course.

The entrance to the club and drive into the grounds is immaculately maintained and the investment in both time and money is apparent. The shrubs, trees and practice areas superb and detailed to allow for a relaxing and welcoming introduction. The club house is a breathtaking building, finished in white and reminiscent of a stately home, striking out from the beauty of the course and overlooking the 18th as you return for a deserved drink and meal.

The fairways are tight and challenging without exception, the greens are consistent, true and although a little fast, will reward the adventurous and birdie putters.

Exactly what a top course should be. Every hole has it’s own character and I can genuinely say there is no hole where you can relax or stop concentrating. It is an 18 hole experience and one worth a visit to Norway by itself!!

Former US president Bill Clinton, an experienced and critical commentator - of golf and golf courses in particular - was noted as stating “ Meland Golf Course is a masterpiece to the eye and to the game –even if my shots were a little lacking, the course certainly as not…!”

Professional golfers and former presidents it seems are united in their praise and adoration for this exceptional venue. The service and care provided to every visitor is admirable, I enjoyed smiles, help and constant assistance from helpful and well trained staff who took pride in their excellent service. The food and drink was fantastic, offering a varied menu from traditional Norwegian cuisine through to restaurant quality, freshly prepared food.

Meland connoisseurs and members like to say that it is from the 14th hole that Meland "begins."

Apparently – – regular players have nicknamed the 14th, 15th and 16th holes the Bermuda Triangle! This should provide a glimpse of what awaits you.

clubhouse

Majestic 13th

Above: 14th

Below: 16th Far Below: Picturesque 8th

The back nine is perhaps a little more demanding – certainly the holes are without exception challenging and thought provoking – though I enjoyed all 18 holes as a course in itself. The bunkers and water hazards appear and guard the greens and wayward shots throughout and test both your long game and your short games equally. It’s a combination of American and Scottish influenced course in my opinion. Powerful at times, tactical in places – but fun – All the way round! The Norwegian ingredient is the sheer beauty, aura and magic you will only find here. Impossible to replicate or find at any other golf course.

Above: 11th

Above: 18th Below: 8th

Leirvik Gard 5918 Frekhaug Norway Fax: +47 56 17 77 22 post@melandgolf.no

Beginning your round, three par 5 monsters introduce you to Meland in the first 5 holes, both a pleasure and start to remember – certainly demanding presence of mind as well as body. The stunning 8th hole looks downhill into the magnificent fjord. Literally, awe inspiring and perhaps my favourite hole from an enviable selection.

Two other notable holes from my perspective (amongst 16 other equally great holes…) are the 11th and 16th holes. The 11th is a short par 4, a tricky and clever hole skill and presence and the monster requiring 16th is a massive par 5, 630+ yard beast of a hole.

I can understand why members and regulars tend to fear the course from the 14th – the 16th justifiably reinforces that point (as it thrashes you physically from beginning to end). A gem and terrific hole full of fun and frustration as much as it contains excitement and a sense of achievement at its end.

The intimidating 18th Island green par three hole awaiting you sums up an exceptional experience and achieving par here is an achievement all by itself.

When I finished my memorable round at Meland, I felt a sense of achievement, as though I had overcome a living, breathing course designed to push me the entire way round. It is perfectly playable at a more leisurely pace for recreational players or business get-togethers, however that would be like taking a Lioness out for a game of fetch.

A superb experience matched by state of the art facilities and complimented by a staff highly trained and welcoming to such a high degree I felt like a member of the club.

A formidable Lioness – or Tiger. Take your pick.

Anyhow you look at it – Meland is a golf experience to savour and enjoy and one I shall look forward to revisiting again very soon.

BYNESET GOLF KLUBB THE FINEST

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Trondheim was founded in the Viking days, way back in 997 AD. It is , of course steeped in history and culture, not simply because it used to be Norway’s capital city. Trondheim is host to the World’s northern most medieval cathedral, the fantastic Nidaros Cathedral as well as numerous museums, attractions and places of historic importance and natural beauty.

The acclaimed golf course design company, Donald Steel – the only design co. to work on the Jubilee course at St Andrews since Harry Colt back in 1913 and also responsible for famous courses like Royal Liverpool, Royal Lytham and St Annes, Royal St Georges and Royal County Down – just to name but a few – is responsible for one of Norway’s – and Europe’s for that matter – finest and most playable golf course.

Outside of Norway, perhaps Byneset Golf club is little known.

This is one of those trade secrets which is about to be shattered and is about to explode to a flurry of interest from golfers across the world looking for that special something and that unique challenge only the greatest clubs can supply.

Byneset is ranked consistently in the top golf courses of Norway, and set in the historic city of Trondheim it is hardly inaccessible or located in far flung climbs. Yet most US, European and Asian golfers would be stretched to admit to any knowledge of such an outstanding golf course.

It is a monster par 72, 18 hole masterpiece. Measuring approx. 6,300 yards it is full of tactical and physical questions and posers that are as clever and frustrating as they are fun and tough to play.

The architects at Donald Steel was especially proud of this course and the challenges which were implanted into it. It retains all of those special Norwegian features, unique to Norway as well as keeping the character and charm which only Norway can provide. This was vital in not only delivering a world class venue, but producing one which was both unique and had a presence and personality all of its own – to make it “special”.

Like many of the best Steel courses, Byneset is based upon a minimalist, clever and charming design. Not over crowded or overtly eager to demonstrate bunkers and hazards for the sake of it. Everything on this course is here for a reason and has been considered and strategically placed. In much the same way that Royal County Down, or Royal Lytham and St Anne’s plays with subtlety and style over ostentatious ‘logo’ or one-upmanship which a few vulgar modern courses have tended to follow recently.

Slight dog-legs, twists and turns to push your drives and tee shots. Every shot is a thought and consideration and the lines need to be good, not only in length by in bravery too. The undulation is just right and at the right length of each hole. Bumps, hollows and bunkers add to the challenge on virtually every hole and push you around the course in a most charmed and charismatic way.

Byneset Golf club really has a personality of its own and one which carries a wealth of strategies and challenges for all levels of golfer. Professional golfers through to weekend players would be well entertained and every shot, from wedges, chips to approaches needs – and demands – your utmost attention.

The fairways are consistent and exceptionally well maintained.

The rough is just right and tree lines edges provide the screen and barrier you need to see the shot ahead.

The scenery all around you is typically and beautifully Norwegian.

Mature pines and forests as far as the eye can see with hills and the rugged countryside providing the back drop to your most memorable round of golf.

The bunkers are deep and threatening and strategically placed to maximise the damage to your round. It really is no exaggeration to say that from the start of the round, you are under pressure on every hole. It is real golf, for real golfers. Thoroughly enjoyable and exhilarating.

The third hole is a cheeky par 4 with a slight dog-leg left. The tee shot is over a hollow and there's a plateau at around 200-220 metres where you absolutely need to land your ball. Missing this sanctuary will probably mean you are playing blind uphill, or worse still are in one of the pot bunkers… The approach is then uphill to a semi blind green which itself has its own list of challenges to the hole. It is honest and clever rather than dishonest and unfair.

The 12th is another memorable short par 4 – a stand of tall pines awaits down the line which gives a slightly misleading sense of perspective. It’s clever and witty how your shot is compromised and you question every part of your game. Identifying and concentrating on the flag placement is critical as a blind approach may follow otherwise.

Throughout Byneset, virtually every hole has its distinct personality and pleasures to be gleaned – the 17th and 18th rank as most golfer’s favourites judging by the members and visitors we spoke with.

The 17th is a short par 5 with a blind tee shot and a fairway that slopes right towards two pot bunkers.

Byneset Golfklubb Sannen, 7018 Trondheim, Norway Tel: +47 72595152 Email: nina@bynesetgolf.no Web: http://www.bynesetgolf.no/

A solid drive will land in the hollow, alongside the bunkers (hopefully not in them!). Your second shot may be semi blind to the flag, but is a relatively short approach to quite a large green!

The 18th is an exceptionally strong closing hole and one which will leave you salivating for more! A par 4 dog-leg which is over 400m in length and uphill all the way, so plays and feels significantly longer. My group and I all played a classic bump and run shot using the slope on the right hand side to run into the green. The beauty is there are numerous different themes and routes and dependent upon the weather conditions or season of the year, there are countless options you can take to extract the best from the course. Big hitters or short tactical wizards will both find a way round and swear by their choices!

The golf, as we have experienced is an absolute wonder to play and enjoy – this is of course, just a part of great golf experiences.

It’s service and feeling needs to just right to ensure a positive experience can be taken away. Byneset again, demonstrates its professional, welcoming and charming demeanour to exceed all expectations you may take.

The club house looks as though it is built into the land. An imposing structure which (though modern) in design, looks perfectly in tune with its surroundings. It is made of natural materials and is extraordinary in its detail and architecture. It contains as you would expect all the mod cons to satisfy the most discerning golfer with both food and drink of the highest standards.

The staff are without exception polite, helpful and friendly. Eager to help and assist you to allow you to make the most of your visit.

Practice facilities are plentiful and in keeping with it’s world class feeling.

We all felt privileged and delighted with our visit to Byneset. It is easily one of Scandinavia’s great courses and combined with a visit to Trondheim is a must see and do item on your agenda.

Kytaja Golf Club

The Finnish Golf Union was founded in 1957 and now boasts 173 golf courses and over 114,000 registered players.

Golf is now one of Finland’s largest and nost participated sports and is growing at a significant rate. The FGU oversees the game of golf from both a players and club’s perspective. Encouraging elite athletes and development as well as ensuring a high level for the everyday golfer to enjoy.

The climate plays a fundamental part of golf in Finland and the courses reflect the nature of the environment. Finland has many unique attributes and an identity of its own and can offer golf at midnight through to all day (and night) games! The infrastructure within Finland is excellent and offers the travelling golfer a unique and memorable experience to visit some once in a lifetime golf clubs.

www.golf.fi

THE FINEST GOLF CLUBS IN FINLAND THE FINEST

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KYTAJA GOLF CLUB

HIRSALA GOLF CLUB

KYTAJA GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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world class courses in one unique surrounding. Seriously, a memorable and astonishing experience in every single aspect. We have to find the , the absolute ‘finest’ with our recommendations and selections for the best golf experiences that Scandinavia has to offer. With Kytäjä Golf Club, we couldn’t be more confident that this is as spectacular as it is enjoyable.

Kytäjä Golf Club is close to the city of Hyvinkää and about 50 kilometres from the capital Helsinki, with excellent infrastructure this equates to a comfy 30 minute drive. It is situated in the most picturesque and beautiful Finnish countryside and is breath taking in its charm and natural beauty.

The look and feel immediately gives the impression of quality and supreme excellence in its care, attention and sheer world class status. Since its opening in 2003, Kytäjä Golf has become synonymous with the best that premier golf facilities have to offer. It is located in the historic ‘millieu of Kytäjä Hyvinkää’, the two first-rate courses, the expansive practise areas as well as the stylish and modern clubhouse; Kytäjä Golf exists in a class with few equals around the world.

Canadian golf course architect Thomas McBroom designed both the South East course and the North West courses. Stylistically both courses represent modern North American golf course architecture at its best. Wide fairways, all-encompassing shaping of surface areas and the strong contrasts in the overall colour scheme make each round a vivid experience.

The play areas are optimised to withstand the intense northern weather conditions during the whole golf season due to a combination of expert management and innovative building techniques. Though designed in an American style in its width and length, it retains a European sense and feel with its challenge - and absolutely remains distinctly Finnish in its character and ambience.

The courses at Kytäjä have received numerous awards both within Finland and internationally and it is ranked as the number one course in Finland by most professional golf writers, and we emphatically agree with all plaudits and recognition this superb facility has and will receive!

South East, the older of the two courses at Kytäjä, was completed in 2003. Although in relative terms it is still a youngster at a mere 10 or so years old, it already feels as though it has lived and breathed for many more years, The course is mature and shrubs, greens and fairways are all established belying its age.

As the first world-class course in Finland, it garnered immediate interest and attention and despite being the ultimate golf experience in Finland and one of the top in Europe, it genuinely will only get better!

South East has a dual personality. The first nine holes are situated in a spacious forest landscape with great variations in elevation.

Many of the holes are played downhill with spectacular scenery from the tees giving a hint of the challenges to come. The first tee allows a view of the entire course and should you enjoy as we did, an early morning round, the mist coming from Lake Kytäjä shrouding the land is one of Nature’s real treats. Amazing. The sun beams through the tall Finnish pines to create a mythical feel and one that will live with you long after the round has been completed.

The back nine is more level and open reminiscent of traditional links-style courses. The par 5 holes 14 and 18 border the crystal clear Lake Kytäjä lending a distinct visual atmosphere while challenging your game and your strategies away from safety and comfort to taking risks and pushing the boundaries (literally) of your game to its fullest. The South East stands out with wide fairways, deep bunkers and expansive greens.

The greens are cleverly and deceptively placed - often with elevated and false fronts to challenge your short and putting games too. Throughout the course, the fairways and green in particular are regular, consistent and fair. They play true which allows you to play your game without the worry of a bad as all world class courses, of bounce course, should. This course alone would be worthy of a visit and a few rounds, before we have even set foot on the second, spectacular course.

Kytäjä's second course, completed in August 2004, is also named after its geographic location. The North West course meanders through changing topography offering both visual delights as well as engaging playing conditions. Were in not for its location also in Kytäjä, the North West course would undoubtedly compete on equal footing with South East for title of best course in Finland.

The first five holes of North West are located in an expansive and open landscape reminiscent of those fabled places where golf was first played so long ago. The rest of the course is situated in diverse and rugged terrain bringing changes in elevation. Rocky outcroppings border some of the holes and give the course its distinct personality. The view from back tee of 17th overlooking Lake Kytäjä, both courses, and the clubhouse complex will leave you in awe. It is worth taking a moment to reflect and take it all in.

It’s special, tranquil, naturally delightful and inspiring.

The shaping of North West is horizontally and vertically softer than its sibling South East. In addition, rounded tees, wide fairways and open green fronts make this course slightly friendlier to play, though both courses are equally challenging and playable to the most competitive and even professional golfer.

In designing the course, McBroom wanted to build both a unique and unforgettable golf experience. Money was no object in creating and establishing itself as a distinctly Finnish club whilst taking in the best from all over the world. This was a course that he wanted to design for players (not only from Finland) but for golfer to enjoy and take in.

"Our vision in Kytäjä project is to build two courses that are distinctive and unforgettable. On Lakeside - course (South East course) there are several holes that are somehow challenged by the lake Kytäjä alongside them. Especially holes 13 -18th are outstanding. Forest -course (North West -course) is played in more arboreous scenery.

The Tee shot from the back tee of 17th is extra special; taking place from the middle of the woods to the fairway 30 meters below.

The facilities and relaxing areas are all of the highest quality – saunas for both sexes are provided and the traditional aspects of a clubhouse with fireplace and lounge also prepared to the best possible degree of comfort.

Golf resorts and clubs have to be all encompassing these days and our selections must include all areas of provision and entertainment so that you can visit a course, entertain, relax, play and even possibly visit for business comfortably aware that your guests and friends will be impressed and can enjoy the experience. Kytäjä will not disappoint in any feature or aspect here too.

The restaurant provides fine dining and a superb selection of high quality cuisine throughout the season. There are also "halfway houses" on both courses where you can enjoy a drink, refreshments and snacks again enjoying top quality features.

Finally, the practicing area’s at Kytäjä Golf are world class. There’s plenty of space for all players in the 12 hectare driving range and short game area. The driving range has four different hitting areas and all slots can be hit from grass (no turf mats). Even the golf balls are all top quality, with only Callaway balls on offer. The target greens with bunkers allowing practice from a variety of distances also speak of the high degree of thought, function and expertly managed facilities that Kytäjä boasts.

Golf (and life for that matter) is all about those experiences that linger and those that can be recanted and explored and spoken over with friends. This course and experience is truly one of those magical and exceptional memories that is worth its weight in gold. With so much attention, detail, care and love invested in Kytäjä, you have to experience the feel, challenge and warmth this superb Finnish Club has to offer.

Kytäjä Golf Oy Kytäjäntie 1265 Tel. +358 19 4565700 Email caddiemaster@kytajagolf.fi Web www.kytajagolf.fi

Generally speaking both courses are bold, rousing, North American design influenced with wide fairways. We have attached qualities from natural forest, rocks, creeks and field lands to the layouts. The Important part of the project was a history of Kytäjä area and preservation of the native agricultural heritage it has.

One of the main factors of a great golf course is its playability and making sure that golfers in every level can have a great golf experience. We've designed holes that are challenging yet not punishing and enjoyable without being easy.

Top quality green keeping and conditioning of the course are definitive requirements. To achieve this we've selected specified materials and methods in building.

We believe that this leads to the best possible quality. All in all, Kytäjä has every element to be a world glass golf destination."

On each and every level and ambition, McBroom and the management at Kytäjä have succeeded in creating a unique and spectacular course, club and golf and recreational experience.

In designing the clubhouse, Pääsky & Siistonen Oy, with head designer Pertti Pääsky wanted to produce and install a landmark and memorable feature which could offer all of the world class features to compliment the world class course.

In keeping with modern Finnish expectations and character, it is ultra-modern whilst staying true to sustainable, natural raw materials. It is made of stone, wood and renewable resources. It covers approx. 1500m2 and boasts a 380 m2 terrace which would be worthy of a visit by itself! Attention to detail is evident throughout the entire club. It is practical and functional – but at the same time is opulent and luxurious without being . It feels very comfortable and this is amplified by the superb staff and welcome which greets everybody that visits.

HIRSALA GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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HIRS

B U L C F L ALA GO

Unveiled in 2007, the course at Hirsala is a David Jones Design that lies about 19kms West of Helsinki, just South of Espoo in Finland and is a mere 30 mins or so drive from the heart of Helsinki.

Hirsala is located in a forest in east Kikkonummi and was carefully constructed to minimize disturbing sensitive habitats. The course doesn't feel so much carved out of the woods as it does a natural extension of the landscape. The course contains large areas of protected wetlands and two rare, protected and notable species (the black woodpecker and hazel grouse) are resident.

Hirsala have paid special attention to creating habitat corridors to allow wildlife to move about freely without getting in the way of the golf and golfers.

CLUB F L O G A HIRSAL The modern, high-class clubhouse is as impressive as it is comfortable. It is an imposing structure, which appears to be built into the land and doesn’t stand out of place despite its modernistic appeal and sway. It has a square – Scandinavian elegance, built with modern steel and glass materials as well as natural stone and wood. The viewing balconies and areas are stunning and offer unbelievable areas to relax and enjoy the freshly made food and drink.

The sheer quality and challenge of this difficult (but hugely rewarding) golf course has led to it hosting the Finnish Open in 2011 - only four years after its opening. This course is one, just a few years later, which is improving and maturing year after year into an even better golfing experience.

The Fins are renowned for their design, Eco-conscience, hospitality and high competitive nature and this course is one which sums up the national identity in all these areas!

Forest covers 86 percent of the country and its 187,888 lakes are home to hundreds of thousands of weekend getaway cabins. The Finnish people love the outdoors - even when it's cold, and the owners of Hirsala Golf Club have taken this affection to the Finnish outdoors (together with a respect of the natural land) to create a golf club and course which is uniquely Finnish in character and terrific fun to play.

Its green credentials are simply without equal. Hirsala was the first club in Finland to be GEO certified and amongst the first in the world and “The Mother Nature Network” chose Hirsala as one of the top 5 golf clubs worldwide to be awarded the greenest golf courses in the world.

Everything in Hirsala has a conscience – the golf carts, signs, ball washers – even the trash bins are ecologically sound. Free corn-made tees are given to all golfers to eliminate the plastic on site and score cards are smaller to reduce paper wastage. It’s always nice to feel as though you are making or helping to make a difference – however small or apparently insignificant!

Hirsala Golf, Southern Finland is 18 holes Par 72 (6265 metres yards) Designed by David Jones Hirsalantie 215, Kirkkonummi, Southern Finland, 02420 JORVAS Finland Tel: +358 0 207 412369

http://www.hirsalagolf.fi/

LUB C F L O G HIRSALA

“W��� I ����� ��� H������ I ���� �� ����� �� � ��������� ��������� �� ��� � ���� ������ ���� ���� � ������� F������ ���������. T�� ������ �� ��� ��������, ��� I �� ��������� ���� ��� ������.

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�������… I� ���� ��� �������� ���� ����� ��… ����� �� ��� ���� ������ �� T�� G���.

I ������� �� �� ������� H������ ���� �� ��� �� ��� ����� ������� �� F������.”

D���� J����, ������ ���������

Numerous professional golfers who play here have nicknamed holes 6-8 the “Amen Corner of Hirsala” such is the quality, challenge and rewarding experience to be enjoyed. Exceptionally well designed to push your shot selection and accuracy (as well as searching for your inner bravery and Tiger or Rory..!)

The two last holes are among the three most difficult holes of the course by popular choice and identification.

The third one of those three is hole #1. Hitting par on (any of) these three holes should result in an exceptional card. By no means should this result in your looking to play either the first, seventeenth or eighteenth holes too safely. It is probably the kiss of death to any hopes of an carefully. impressive round to venture The clubhouse is one of (if not THE biggest) in Finland with its 2200 square meters and 10 000 cubic meters. It has three floors including two private saunas, a conference room, a 100 seater, top class, fine dining restaurant and superbly fitted make and female locker rooms.

A famous (or infamous) stuffed linx adorns the clubhouse wall and is apparently a celebrity in these parts! J - It’s said that he played the major role in the 98’ blockbuster, “The boy and the Lynx” – a Finnish movie – no hard feelings to any non-Fins who may have missed that piece of cinematic heraldry!

The pro shop is owned by Hirsala Golf and maintains the same exacting standards and high quality theme. Only Pebble beach and Augusta can boast some of the featured brands (Kjus, Glenbrae and Duca del Cosma).

The driving range is in keeping once again with the now standard high and premium level of quality you can find throughout and also uses mainly eco friendly balls to keep with its sensitive and sustainable theme.

Hirsala Golf, Hirsalantie 215, Kirkkonummi, Southern Finland, 02420 JORVAS Finland Tel: +358 0 207 412369

http://www.hirsalagolf.fi/

The nearby Långvik Congress Wellness Hotel offer their guests a green fee package including not only the night in the hotel with access to the spa and gym and other facilities but also a round of golf in Hirsala. We used this option and were extremely pleased with the standards and equally good service to be enjoyed at Långvik. If you are interested in having a look the link is below: www.langvik.fi and the green fee package at http://www.langvik.fi/en/holiday/hotel/packages-andoffers/golf-package

Brautarholts Golf Club

The Golf Union of Iceland is expertly managed by Hordur Thorsteinsson and presides over an ever increasing and expanding range of unique golf courses and clubs in one of the world’s great natural environments and Iceland has over 65 courses and 16,000 registered players - which given its relative size and population is remarkable!

The Golf Union of Iceland was founded in 1942 and manages both the amateur game, elite development as well as advising and aiding the countries golf facilities and clubs to increase in both quality and popularity.

The challenges facing the course builder and architects is immense and some of the courses innovative and unique solutions provide golfers from all the world with hazards, holes and course challenges that only Icelandic clubs can offer. With the expert care and attention of Mr Thorsteinsson, Icelandic golf is set to expand even further and welcome golfers who can expect not only a game of golf that they will never forget, but also a uniquely Icelandic charm and experience.

THE FINEST GOLF CLUBS IN ICELAND THE FINEST

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BRAUTARHOLT GOLF CLUB

HELLA GOLF CLUB

GOLFKLUBBURINN KEILIR GOLFKLUBBURIN ODDUR

GOLFKLUBBUR REYKJAVIKUR

HELLISHOLAR GOLF

BRAUTARHOLT GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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celand is genuinely becoming a golfers dream venue.

The stunning scenery and adventurous nature is well known and renowned. It presents a unique backdrop to the great game of golf, and where careful design, management and dedication exist, golf clubs with the sheer quality and challenge of Brautarholt Golf Club can thrive!

Without a doubt, one of the finest golf experiences you may enjoy can be found within a few short miles of Reykjavik city. Brautarholt Golf Club is ideally situated in the Greater Reykjavik Area and close to numerous hotels and guest houses for easy transfers and convenience in combining different “things-to-do”in your visit.

The breathtaking nature and the view of Reykjavik itself are just two of the unique attributes of this stunning course. Brautarholt Golf Club‘s world class facilities and golf course are true testament to what can be achieved with expert management. The fairways and greens encourage wildlife without interfering with your round. The facilities exude quality and comfort without blemishing its surroundings.

The service and welcome you are sure to receive instantly relax you and put you at ease. All essential in your golfing experience.

The course was opened in 2012 but looks and feels as though it is a mature and established round of golf. It really is a pleasure to play and walk around this course.

The overall feel and ambience is a most positive one.

Brautarholt comfortably makes our elite list of Finest Golf clubs and courses in Scandinavia with room to spare and the promise of a true world class golf club.

It is undeniably to Iceland and utilises all of the natural and features you may expect it too.

However, this course and club could rival any top club for its design, challenge, nature – its service and welcome surpasses most and perhaps this adds those extra vital ingredients to what is already an awesome golfing treat.

Holes 1 and 5 hole are characterised by many as signature holes due to their own testing and challenging features. The first hole is an extremely difficult par 5 where the green sits on sheer rock beside the coast. It really sets the scene and makes you hit the ground running. Intriguing and demanding at the same time and a wonderful experience for both short and long hitters.

The fifth hole is a long par 3 over the GoldChest Creek. A gem to play and easily one of the best par 3‘s in Scandinavia – let alone Iceland.

“

A gem to play and easily one of the best par 3‘s in Scandinavia – let alone Iceland.

”

Golf needs to be a balance of risk and reward and also of the pleasure of the experience or motivation to push your game to its limits. Its these paradoxes which have made golf the game it is today, enabling businessmen to enjoy a round together, professional players to seek perfection in precision and power and the enthusiast to simply enjoy the challenge for the feel, look, and the sport itself.

Managing to compensate and satisfy all three categories remains today's golfing requirement. Brautarholt, you will find, genuinely manages to do so.

The first 9 holes in this ambitious golf course development (with larger greens than almost all other Icelandic courses) are all worth a visit and worthy of the challenge. They really wet the appetite for the back nine to follow and all conforming to USGA requirements and guides. They cleverly combine the best of American golf, with the challenge of the best established and traditional golf courses of Scotland – but all with a unique and “Iceland-only tag“ which makes it unmissable.

In addition to the obvious attraction of the abundant natural features, the flora and fauna Brautarholt Golf Club proudly boasts, the added incentive to visit and play midnight golf is available and perhaps is something you on your visit..

Official address: GolfklĂşbbur Brautarholts Brautarholt 1, Kjalarnes 116 Reykjavik Iceland Telephone: +354 5666045 Email: gbr@gbr.is Website: www.gbr.is

www.gbr.is Bookings: Tel +354 5666045

HELLA GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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long while and countless arguments were required in establishing the Finest golf experiences, clubs and courses in Iceland – let alone in Scandinavia.

The natural environment, unique attributes, quality of facility – even the level of service has all been taken into account. Many clubs and courses ticked most boxes, few achieved the coveted 5 star grade in all areas.

One Golf club however, didn’t really need to worry about its inclusion or making the grade. Absolutely no recommended list of top-tier golf clubs of Scandinavia could exclude Hella Golf Club in Iceland. It is a stunning Golf Course which would probably make the top group in any market or location.

Hella Golf Club is just over an hours drive from Reykjavik and is midway between Hella and Hvolsvöllur. Hella is a links course even though it’s approx 20 km from the sea (due to the sand and lava) within its natural surroundings. It is widely considered one of the (if not ) finest links courses in Iceland, offering a mesmerising view of stunning mountains, the Eyjafjallajökull glacier and Mt. Hekla.

The course offers a “once in a life-time” opportunity to experience golf in an absolutely unique setting. .

It will literally take your breath away as you tee off and play through this stunning course. Its natural characteristics draw you in to an unforgettable experience. It feels like a privilege to play at Hella GC. Not because of any pretention or statutory requirement, but due to the quality, management and pure feel of the course and club.

Hella couldn’t be more welcoming and friendly. It’s beautifully and efficiently run - and its facilities are impeccable – but you naturally and immediately feel at home and most comfortable.

After acclimatising to the wonderful scenery the round begins with a tricky first hole. This continues hole by hole without relaxing or allowing you to gain favour or momentum without concentration throughout.

Hella is absolutely a golfers-golf-course. Its challenge is unique and features unforgettable as stated earlier. But it really is the overall playing and golf experience which allows Hella to leap to the forefront of Icelandic golf courses.

No other golf course can offer a clear view of five volcanoes and ‘Westman Island’ is also visible from the golf course.

This is a deceptively tough course with small greens to challenge even the keen player. Its stand out features are its ‘moguls’ which give this flat course character and Icelandic feel. It can be very windy and players need to be able to drive accurately and control their approach shots to make the most out of this course. Long hitters will enjoy the environment, pushing their game to its maximum level. Regular hitters will push their own game all the way through a relentless, although thoroughly enjoyable round of the finest golf.

Buggies of course are available, but for me, to best enjoy such a one-off challenge you have to walk the course and savour each hole and approach personally. At least the first time you play here!

The course was founded in 1952 but didn’t become a fully fledged 18 hole course until 1986. The first 9 hole golf course was built on Gaddastadaflatir by the river Ytri-Ranga near the town Hella but it was not until 1970 that the club got permission to extend from its existing location.

“

…it will literally take your breath away the first time you tee off..

”

www.ghr.is Bookings: Tel +354 – 487-8208 Hella Golf Club truly is a golfers course and club. One to enjoy and remember and comparable in its challenge to the very best available. Its scenery and environment provide the unique and ultimately Icelandic only experience which you have to take in and play.

Its service and welcome compliment the round and make this golfing experience one of the finest and easily one of the best Golf courses to enjoy in Scandinavia. Iceland has a jewel in its crown in Hella and one we can whole heartedly recommend you visit and experience. If your own “bucket – list” needs an additional golfing treat, perhaps Hella should be included.

Golfklubbur Hellu, Strönd, 851 Hella, Iceland. http://golficeland.org/introduction/hella-golf-course.html Telephone: The golf club: 354 – 487-8208

ODDUR GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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The course was inaugurated in August 1997 and is now considered one of the finest golf courses in Iceland located in beautiful surroundings in the immediate vicinity of the greater area of Urridavatnsdalir (which is about a 20 minute drive from the centre of Reykjavik). The golf course is surrounded by a lava-inspired landscape – completely unique to Oddur. It’s an exhilarating experience to play golf in the midst of nesting moor birds to enjoy their singing whilst immersed in the natural beauty of the Icelandic lunar-esque landscape far away from the city's noise and everyday toil.

Oddur is a modern Heath land course which is full of bends, turns, hazards, undulation and clever design features – all wrapped up in a typically Icelandic, lava created aesthetic masterpiece. It is one of Icelands most popular golf courses (amongst locals) and you can see why within seconds of entering the magnificent grounds.

Hannes Thorsteinsson a very well respected and expert golf course designer with an expert like knowledge of the local land and personality designed this course very much in keeping with the competitive nature and psychy of the natives. Damn hard, challenging and thought provoking at every turn, whilst being consistent, honest and fair all the way round. The fairways may be tough and contain a surprise or two, but they run smooth and true the whole way round (even if they do rise and fall), and like Keilir, have lava stretches to capture and ward you around. The greens, tactically placed and strategically situated are without exception beautiful surfaces and play fast. Birdies here are hard work, but play a good line with pace and they will reward you with straight, true putts – misjudge the lie of the green and prepare for one or two additions to your card! :+)

Oddur’s history is perhaps in keeping with the numerous challenges which face golf course developers these days. The land was purchased in the mid 20th century, but it wasn’t until ‘The fellowship of ‘Odd Fellow’’ founded a private golf club in 1990 that Oddur began to take shape. In 1993 the Oddur Golf Club (GO) – an open golf club – was established and became a member of the Golf Association of Iceland (GSÍ). It´s purpose and aim was firstly to enable the members of GOF to participate on golf tournaments on a National basis, and secondly to give all people interested in playing golf access to this unique golf course.

7 years after the introduction of the private club,the Odd Fellow Golf Club (GOF) built a magnificent 18 hole golf course, covering an area of 162 acres. It has proven so successful and so enjoyable in the years to now, that it now welcomes golfers from across the world seeking a brand new and exclusive challenge which only Oddur can provide.

The golf course itself is located on one of the hills East of Gardabaer, the neighbouring town of Reykjavík - beside the Reykjvavik conservation area Heidmörk. The distance to the center of town in Hafnafjördur is about 5 km, and down town Reykjavík is only about 12 km away. Even Keflavík airport is only a mere 45 km away – although you feel as though you are literally on another planet such is the sheer peace and tranquillity to be experienced in these unique grounds.

The clubhouse has first-class facilities worthy of any toptier venue and the obvious care and attention that has been invested in developing and maintaining such high standards must be immense. The grounds are perfectly manicured and cared for with both grace and high skill.

The unique fauna and flora and variety of local native shrubs and plants is as beautiful as it is understated – very much in line with Iceland’s rugged and spectacular ambience. Restaurant quality food and drink is served before and after your round and the club house’s facilities are as welcoming as they are comfortable. The restaurant opens at a brisk 8am and doesn’t close until 2200hrs to capitalise on the climate and daylight hours of the Icelandic calendar (seasonal variations dependent of course), and when we played here until late at night, a regular member commented that the course plays differently and is dependent upon the season even that you’re there. The light that bounces and shimmers around the course into the evening is quite simply something that I hadn’t experienced before – nor anticipated. Perfect clarity of course, but mesmerising all the same and a thrill to play golf with the midnight sun!

Oddur boasts a state of the Art driving range which is both a joy to hit balls from as much as it is easy and accessible to reach and prepare/ warm up on. Genuinely championship standard facilities.

The subtlety named Ljuflingur or “Darling” in English – is a charming little 9 hole par 3 course, which is very suitable for working on your short game as well as for all beginners in golf and great fun (either before you play the main course or for those learning golf). For all those Seve worshippers (we all are, right?), it provides the short game fun and skills which these days are being lost to power hitting and monster drives. Well worth a brief round.

Again, the fairways, grounds – even the buggies are immaculate. Perfectly clean and showroom condition. The course is mature and cer. It’s tainly doesn’t feel new or without character – bursting with charisma and wit. Though everything is managed well and prepared meticulously, not for one second is it sterile or scientific in feel or playing style – it’s not overtly traditional or historic to play either though. It feels a combination – just the right balance – of modern virtues combined with traditional sympathies. In summary, a course which will undoubtedly please big hitting golfers; as well as delight short and tactical players. It will also play equally well for ultra-competitive types and recreational or relaxing inspired golf rounds. An ideal and rare combo.

The 18 hole course is a bully at times, harsh, challenging, tricky and relentless from hole to hole, or even shot to shot on occasion. It rewards risk, but will punish wayward shots and sliced balls. Exceptionally challenging and on every hole there are numerous shot variations and selection posers cleverly selected to make every shot a consideration and concentration poser. The design has been well thought out and expertly executed in its structure.

Though every hole without exception is fun and a challenge to play, the last four holes were my favourite. The 15th in particular plays completely through lava fields so is a massive highlight and should be savoured by the visitor. Be warned, don’t let the scenery take your concentration here, or you’ll end up losing a good card score (as one of our party succumbed to…)

A spectacular golf course, full of obvious charm, challenge and wit. It is easy to see why the locals flock here in such high numbers – every hole is as much fun as it is difficult to play through. The greens ans fairways are hard but always true and consistent. The rough is a combination between traditional and laval fields. The views - wow, such views – take your breath away and service and quality of golf and facilities would honestly not be out of place anywhere.

The staff are all welcoming (as are the members) and when all combined, Oddur justifiably finds itself at the top end of Scandinavian golf.

Stunning, challenging and clever – superb. A must play in Iceland.

Golf club Oddur Urridavollur, 210 Gardabær, Iceland +354 565 9092 http://www.oddur.is/

KEILIR GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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Iceland has an abundance of Natural features. Spectacular scenery with unique attributes which can only be found in this remote and wonderful Island. Keilir Golf Club, regularly ranked in the top 100 golf courses of Europe utilises and exploits many of these natural phenomenon to its advantage to present itself as a truly unique and exceptional challenge – and experience – for the brave and dedicated golfer.

Whilst playing across sunny climates and traditional Links courses is the mainstay for many golfers, Iceland is fast becoming a hub and option for many.

Keilir golf club, founded in 1967 is a trailblazer in terms of sheer quality and unique golf experience. It is unique to Iceland for a number of reasons. The scenery surrounding you captures your imagination and the ground itself is a combination of immaculate greens and fairways with lava rocks that need to be seen to be believed. It’s a picture and an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime and needs to be played.

Keilir is located on the Hvaleyri peninsula, just south of the capital, Reykjavik. Originally a nine hole course, the local town of Hafnafjördur saw the potential Keilir promised and enabled an expansion of the course. In 1971, Swedish Golf designer Nils Skjöld designed a new 12 hole course on the peninsula and in 1997, a new front nine was completed to provide a world class 18 hole course, worthy of any challenge and well worth the effort.

It has been reviewed as “clearly the best course in the country” by prominent golf writers and as mentioned not only features as one of Iceland’s best clubs and courses, but manages to break into Europe’s top 100. A major milestone for such a young and innovative course.

Only in Iceland can a Tee shot face the hazard of falling into Lava rocks nestling between a narrow fairway! The fifth hole is a prime example of such a hazard. This par 5 requires accuracy and a long drive to navigate between the perilous rocks. The green awaits you down the approach but is guarded by raised banks and more lava creations. Quite stunning playing against such a back drop with the sea crashing against the shore close-by.

The sixth and seventh holes are equally challenging and memorable par 4’s. Accuracy and strategy are essential in achieving at least a par, and a birdie, though possible, genuinely requires nerves of steel to safely avoid the pitfalls.

The front none holes are devoid of bunkers, the lava rocks present challenge enough and the experience of playing through such terrain is both captivating and inspiring.

Justin Rose was quoted after playing Keilir “It looks so beautiful when you look across the water, with the lava and the water, its just so unique”. It is simply stunning and takes your breath away the first time you stand at the face of the course.

Trevor Immelman and Pedraig Harrington have also played and enjoyed the course to great acclaim and credit.

The tenth hole provides a more traditional feel with more recognisable fairways and greens, however the coastal views and Mount Keilir providing a dominant backdrop.

The course is open from May to October and provides top tier facilities and playing conditions. Its restaurant provides exceptional Icelandic fare and would be a welcome eating experience in any surrounding, the level of service and welcome faces to greet and assist you makes this experience even more worthwhile.

Keilir is a remarkable and inspiring Golf course and club.

Its service and welcome genuinely will leave you humbled.

The quality of its club house, restaurant, training facilities and driving range are unrivalled in Iceland and the overall feeling and experience to play amongst such a unique environment and one typically Icelandic is a must do.

Golfklubburinn Keilir Steinholti 1 220 Hafnafjordur Iceland Telephone: The golf club: 354 – 565 3360.

Email: keilir@keilir.is Web: www.keilir.is

REYKJAVIK GOLF CLUB THE FINEST

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Reykjavik is the oldest golf club in Iceland and located just 10km or so from the capital bearing the same name. It’sa delightful and breeze of a drive to get here from the hustle and bustle of the great northern city, but once here, immediately you get a feel for the place – the history, tradition and presence this club exudes. It is considered the country’s premier and perhaps most internationally recognised and respected golf club and course.

Golfklúbbur Reykjavíkur was founded in 1934 when golf was played in the centre of Reykjavik itself. As the city grew, the club moved to Laugardalur – now the site of the National football stadium, then to Leynimyri where Princess Ingrid of Denmark and Iceland hit the first shot on a course, (then shared with cattle) finally to its current location – the magnificent “Grafarholt course”.

Grafarholt The ‘Grafarholt’ course was officially opened in 1963 after being designed by renowned Golf course architect, Niels Skjold – who also notably designed Sudurnesja Golf Club and Keilir on the Island. Golfklúbbur Reykjavíkur (or GR) however, is considered his finest achievement, where he combined a sympathetic understanding and touch to the nature and landscape of the lava shaped land with a fiercely competitive and challenging course. Now, almost sixty years after its creation, this beautiful and expertly maintained course is fully matured, and has grown in stature and life to become not only one of Iceland’s very finest golf experiences, but arguably one of Scandinavia’s and even Europe’s great courses to play, (unfortunately the cattle no longer reside on the lush and green fairways…).

The 18 hole, par 71 Grafarholt course measures a more than respectable 6,580+ yards and is considered one of Skjold’s most difficult course designs. The holes play to a crescendo and have been designed with a feel and look to match its majestic landscape which is quite stunning. It lies more than 100m above sea level so bears the scars and fauna accordingly in such a harsh environment – which all adds to the spectacle and effect this unique course provides.

The glacier at Snaefellsjokull – 200m to the North is visible on a clear day re-enforcing the realisation of the climate and location of this most picturesque of golf experiences.

Big, modern hitters will enjoy the challenge and scope this course offers. Many of the holes play uphill and require an accurate as well as long tee and drive shot.

The hazards are plentiful and challenging. Most are cleverly hidden or part and parcel of each hole and have grown, developed and naturally over time embedded themselves as part of this living and thriving adventure.

The very best golf clubs evolve naturally as well as manmade re-development to meet modern criteria and GR is the epitome of this. Every part of the course has a role and part to play, whether it be to dissuade those sliced or wayward shots or to capture a lazy approach.

The fairways are consistent and honest even if they are designed to tempt or scare you off your particular choice of shot depending on your bravery or mood at that time.

Short game fans will be in their element here also. The holes perhaps favouring finesse and style with a tactical theme to inspire and out-think some of the obstacles rather than try to hit through them – either way, the course is always asking questions and the members themselves talk of playing the same hole completely differently depending on the annual weather systems, air pressure or even how their football team or business deal went‌ Any course which demands your full concentration throughout is worthy of a place in our finest golf clubs and courses in Scandinavia, Skjold’s vision and unique design enabled a course which is as diverse as it is fun with no two holes playing alike or containing similar challenges.

Korpa GR boasts, not just one of the countries best course, but two. Korpa course was opended in 1997 and has established itself already as an equal to the Grafarholt. The front nine holes hug the Atlantic coast providing a genuine links feel and are spoilt with views overlooking the sea and rugged landscape as well as Esja, Reykjaviks landmark Mountain.

The back nine runs beside the River Korpa and it includes some of the most challenging holes to be played in Scandinavia. The par4 12th and par 5 15th are full of twists and turns and truly stretch the better players so beginners and occasional golfers beware! Hannes Thorsteinsson designed this course to play hard and push all levels of players and also to add a second dimension to the existing course at GR. At 6600 yards, this par 72 course really impresses and is worth a visit alone and a second days play.

Both the challenge and enjoyment of the golf and hospitality to be enjoyed at GR really set this traditional club apart from most other Icelandic Golf clubs. .

The quality throughout this modern thinking-old club is obvious and everywhere. The drive into the club is inspiring and impressive, the club house a beautiful and typical of Icelandic pride in design and function. It underwent a major renovation at the turn of the century so is pristine and full of all of the mod-cons you would expect to find. There are worldclass practice facilities and it’s training and golf school initiatives are admired through Europe, developing and nurturing the best young players and encouraging the keen young golfers alike.

The food, drink and overall personal care and service is absolutely top-tier. The restaurant and dining room is one of the very best eateries and facilities in Iceland of ANY kind! Certainly, it has some of the best views to be enjoyed in the country! Reykjavik can be seen whilst you enjoy the locally sourced and expertly cooked food in surroundings which would not be amiss at any top restaurant.

Iceland is blessed with many natural wonders and scenery which will live a lifetime in your thoughts. The Grafarholt course in particular 18 holes which would be showcased as special, but combined with those natural wonders and views only Iceland can provide, make Reykjavik Golf club a must play venue on your Icelandic adventure.

Golfklubbur Rekjavikur Korpulfsstadir 112 Reykjavik +354 585 0200

http://www.grgolf.is

MAKING MEMORIES One of the best investments you can ever make

By Jasper Orteen

Wise words and not just poetic wisdom, it’s the vision for one of Iceland’s foremost and reputable companies specialising in managing and organising your vacation for almost twenty years.

Iceland is of course a remote and (mostly) undiscovered and undamaged country.

For many of us it is a once in a life time experience and vacation to visit, a tick On your bucket list !

The geysers, glaciers, lava created landscapes and the mountainous and stunning scenery are just a few of the unique attributes that create such a wonder-scape.

When we travel abroad (generally speaking), going online, searching for flights and booking a recommended hotel is a straight forward exercise – we already know what to expect and how to do it.

When glacier driving, diving in crystal clear pools, venturing and exploring the amazing waterfalls on offer is part of the ‘dream scenario’, then things and plans need a little assistance.

Why take a chance on that “once in a life time experience “then? I don’t think many of us would buy a Ferrari or engagement ring on eBay, so the logic should follow that in order to get the best from Iceland – speak with the experts.

Ask anyone who has been to Iceland and enjoyed many of the ‘must see’ stuff and they will probably point you in the direction of Isafold travel.

The dynamic tour operator ‘Isafold Travel’ was founded in 1997.

It started as a very small operation as the founder and co-owner, Jón Baldur, took guests on custom made trips around his beloved Iceland.

Although the company has grown a lot since then, the service remains guest and customer oriented and the personal service and attention is second to none.

Above: Northern Lights, Iceland Style Below: Godafoss - Iceland’s famous

Above: Trekking through the impressive natural Icelandic features

Isafold Travel is fully licensed by the Icelandic government and the company is a member of SAF, the Icelandic Travel Industry Association, and the ATTA, the Adventure Travel Trade Association and always ranked amongst (if not top) of travel professionals here.

Isafold Travel is strategically located at 21 Smiðshöfði, 110 Reykjavík, which is at the outskirts of Reykjavík, just by the main road out of the city, before it divides into National route 1 North, towards West and North Iceland, and National route 1 East, towards South and East Iceland.

The building is split into the travel agency office on the upper floor, where we tailor-make your trips, and a maintenance hall on the ground floor, where we work on the vehicles of the company to keep them in top condition.

The History of Isafold Isafold, or Ísafold, is a poetic name for Iceland. Most Icelanders connect the name with Bjarni Thorarensen’s poem “Eldgamla Ísafold” (Ancient Iceland), dating back to the very beginning of the Romantic movement in Iceland.

Isafold Travel’s founder was also greatly affected by the German book “Ísafold – Reisebilder aus Island”, which was published in 1909 by Ina von Grumbkow. The book is a narration of von Grumbkow’s voyage to Iceland searching for her fiancée who had vanished without trace on a scientific expedition in 1907, a testament to unabiding and unforgiving might of the Icelandic wilderness.

Ísafold ehf kt. 410202-2120 Smiðshöfði 21 IS-110 Reykjavík Tel: +354 544 8866 E-mail: info@isafoldtravel.is

http://www.isafoldtravel.is

THE 10 MOST MISUNDERSTOOD RULES OF GOLF

Tiger Woods watches a (completely proper!) bunker shot on the sixth hole during the final round of the 141st Open Championship at Royal Lytham & St. Annes Golf Club.

We’ve all been there!… What actually happens when something goes wrong on your round? These are a few of the most misunderstood rules of golf that seem to crop up from time to time. Many of you may not worry too much about them, but for those of you who do… Indulge :-) Lost Ball or Out-of-Bounds After looking for a maximum of 5 minutes, you must go back to where the shot was originally played from, and replay, incurring a stroke and distance penalty.

Grounding Your Club in a Hazard Practice swings may be taken inside a hazard as long as you don’t touch the ground, sand or water with your club. The top of the grass may be touched during a practice swing.

Improving Your Swing Path You cannot bend, break or hack anything growing or fixed if it improves you lie, your stance, or your area of intended swing.

Accidentally Moving Your Ball There is a 1 stroke penalty for accidentally moving your ball and it must be replaced in its original position before hitting.

Removing Foreign Objects (in play/ in a Bunker etc) You may not move or remove any loose impediments in a bunker unless they are foreign to the area. E.g. you may remove a candy wrapper but not a pine cone or tree branch . If, in moving loose impediments, you accidentally move your ball, you must return the ball to its original position and penalize yourself one stroke

Asking for Advice It’s against the rules of golf to ask an opponent what club they have hit. The penalty for this breech is loss of hole in match play, or a 2 shot penalty in stroke play.

Number of Allowed Clubs

Repairing the Line of your Putt You may repair any ball marks in your line and remove any pebbles or foreign objects in your line, provided you do it with

JACK

NICKLAUS

CLASS D I SM ISSED

BY WILLIAM BENNETT

S

TEELY BLUE EYES were all the rage in 1959. Yes it was 50+ years

ago when the Grammys were introduced, and legendary crooner, Frank Sinatra was amongst those receiving acclaim. Meanwhile, in the Colorado Mountains, the world was introduced to a legend in the making – a superlative young golfer named Jack William Nicklaus.

Nicklaus, already well known in golfing circles after being named to represent the US in the Walker Cup matches in Muirfield, Scotland, began his ascent to the pinnacle of the world’s sporting stage when he collected the first of his 20 major championships by defeating defending champion, Charles R Coe, 1 up, in the 59th U.S Amateur at Broadmoor Country Club in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Nicklaus was all of 19 at the time, but was mature beyond his years as a man and a golfer. No less than Gene Sarazen, one of five men to win the career grand slam, said early on of the youngster from Columbus, “I’ve never seen a player who could shut himself off from all around him the way Nicklaus does”.

Though eternally patient and perspicacious, he didn’t have the game to win a National title until he went through – as he calls it – “ a sort of finishing school”, in the summer of ‘59.

The lessons began in Muirfield when Nicklaus played beautifully for two days in his first taste of golf abroad.

A missed cut at winged foot actually furthered his education.

After watching his playing partners, Doug Ford and Gene Littler, scramble to scores that made the cut while he shot two 77’s, Nicklaus realised he had not yet figured out how to manage his game on days his ball striking was

Charlie Coe and Nicklaus

JACK

Jack Nicklaus says his first national title win was one of the hardest Fought of his career.

NICKLAUS

lacking. In assessing how to grasp the intricacies of such management, Nicklaus in the summer o f ’59 became a devoted student o f g o lf course design.

He brought all of these new found enhancements to h is competitive make up at the Broad moor, where he engaged Coe, his Walker Cup captain , in one of the most exciting finals in the history of the amateur championships — a show down Nicklaus still ranks as one of the toughest in which he’s ever participated .

Nicklaus had not advanced past the first Round in his previous U.S. Amateur appearances, but the young golfer trumpeted his improvement Early that fateful week when he had dismantled a talented player with a famous name in the first round. The player was Robert T Jones III, the son of the celebrated Grand Slam winner, and Nicklaus took him down with disarming ease, 7 and 6.

Reminded of this result recently, Nicklaus laughed at a memory he had not recalled in decades.

“The funny part about that is that Bob and I talked a bit after the match , and he told me the story of how he called his dad beforehand to see if he was going to come out and watch ,” Nicklaus said. “He told me that he asked his dad after the pairings came out if he were coming, and Bob said his dad asked who he was going to play. ‘O h , I’m playing the young Nicklaus kid,’ Bob told his dad, to which his dad asked , ‘Is that Jack Nicklaus?’ Bob told him it was, and his dad

replied , ‘Well, I’m not coming out and watching you lose 7 and 6.’

“We both kind of laughed that the score ended up being that way. But, yeah, that was fun playing against Bob. Obviously, he was a very good player in his own right”.

Young Jack’s road got bumpier in the later rounds.

He survived a close call over Dave Smith in the fifth round, which was played in a fog bank so thick that spotters were needed throughout the course to follow the golfer’s shots and another former U.S public links champion, Gene Andrews in the semifinal 1 up. Then came the final, and it was a nail biter against the two-time Amateur champion.

Despite a fine par-birdie-birdie start, an incredulous Nicklaus found himself one down to Coe and he fell behind by as many as three in the morning 18 holes before ending up two adrift at the break. A lanky Oklahoma oil broker, Coe actually held or shared the lead for the first 31 holes and led outright for the first 20. In contrast, Nicklaus, who shot 71-69 to Coe’s 69-73, led for only 4 holes in total. Nicklaus finally nosed ahead in the 32nd hole thanks to his hallmark patience, as he converted his 10th par in 11 holes.

An uncharacteristically sloppy bogey from Nicklaus at the 17th set up a dramatic finish. With the match square, the two men drilled3-woods into the fairway at the Broadmoor’s home hole, a 430 yard par 4 that doglegs sharply right and up.

JACK

NICKLAUS

a hill. Their drives came to rest three crucial yards apart, with Nicklaus’ ball stopping just beyond his opponent’s, meaning he would have the advantage of hitting the second onto the green.

That advantage made all the difference to a young player who was proving to be savvier than he had shown to be only months before when he played in his first Masters and missed the cut at the Open.

Choosing an 8 iron, Coe took dead aim at the flag, but his approach failed to hold the green and his ball raced over the putting surface and down a slope into a grassy hollow. Fingering his own 8 iron, Nicklaus watched Coe’s shot intently and then opted to hit a punch 9 iron. His approach trundled to within 8 feet short of the hole.

Coe, not conceding, nearly chipped in from the almost impossible shot, but the opening was there and the precocious Nicklaus took it. He holed his left to right birdie putt for a 1 up victory to become the youngest U.S Amateur champion in nearly half a century.

In his autobiography, My Story, Nicklaus wrote: “If there is ever really a moment when a man can say a dream began, and he tried to begin to give it substance, this for me was the moment.”

Years later, that sense of discovery he felt that summer was still vibrant.

“I think in some ways I still didn’t know how good I was at golf, even when I was named the No.1 amateur at the end of the year, “ Nicklaus said.

“But I figured that I must be better than I thought, and so winning the US Amateur was probably my first stepping stone to realising that I might really have a future in the game”.

Maybe young Jack didn’t know, but his father Charlie did. In calling home to herald his son’s victory, Charlie Nicklaus was moved to proclaim, “I believe our son was born to greatness!”

“I think in some ways I still didn’t know how good I was at golf, even when I was named the No.1 amateur at the end of the year, “ Nicklaus said.

“But I figured that I must be better than I thought, and so winning the US Amateur was probably my first stepping stone to realising that I might really have a future in the game”.

C

an success

only be measured with Major wins?

By J Roberts

Tiger vs. Jack: Are majors the only way to measure greatness?

We all know the score: 18-14. Jack Nicklaus. Tiger Woods.

Major championships.

But does that mean the Golden Bear is the definitive answer to the question of "Who is the greatest golfer of all time?" if Tiger never surpasses Jack in that category? It's not that simple.

Certainly, majors define careers, but perhaps it's too narrowminded to only look at a player's performance in golf's four marquee events. After all, would anyone rank Andy North and his two U.S. Open titles ahead of one-time major winners like Lanny Wadkins, Davis Love III and Tom Weiskopf?

So what else should count when measuring golf's all-time best? Total PGA Tour titles is the obvious place to start.

Woods' 79 wins trails only Sam Snead (82) on the list, having passed Nicklaus' total of 73 last year at age 36.

You want more consistency? How about Tiger's record of 142 consecutive cuts made, a streak that spanned more than seven years. Nicklaus' best was 105, the third-best mark ever.

But isn't being great really about dominating the competition rather than compiling numbers? In that regard, Tiger comes out on top in a few other telling stats.

Above: Woods celebrating the Open win in 2000 Left: Nicklaus Watching a putt.

Woods has the most seasons of winning five or more times on the PGA Tour with 10, including this year. Nicklaus is tied for third with seven (Snead accomplished the feat eight times).

Not surprisingly, Woods also has claimed the most money titles ever (he's already wrapped up 2013) with 10, as well as the most Player of the Year awards and Vardon Trophies for the best scoring average on tour. There is no argument that Woods already has been the game's undisputed best player more times than Nicklaus ever was.

Perhaps the most impressive stat that speaks to that is Woods' overall winning percentage of about 27 per cent. In comparison, Nicklaus won about 12 per cent of his starts (Ben Hogan won at more than a 20-percent clip). Of course, Nicklaus' number came down as he played past his prime, but it would take a lot of really lean years for Woods' percentage to come close to that.

Add it all up and suddenly 18-14 doesn't seem as one-sided. Of course, Tiger, 37, still has time to tilt that score in his favour or perhaps pull even.

And if that happens, even the most ardent Nicklaus supporters would have to concede Woods wins the tiebreaker.

Major Winners Major Winners can be measured in two categories. Professional ONLY and Professional and Amateurs combined. Maybe Seve should have won more? - Did Vijay win too many? See what you think‌

Most Majors - Amateur & Pro.

Most Majors - Professional

Jack Nicklaus Tiger Woods Walter Hagen Ben Hogan Gary Player Tom Watson Bobby Jones Arnold Palmer Gene Sarazen Sam Snead Harry Vardon Nick Faldo Lee Trevino Seve Ballesteros James Braid Phil Mickelson Byron Nelson J.H. Taylor Peter Thomson Willie Anderson Jr. Jim Barnes Ernie Els Raymond Floyd Bobby Locke Tom Morris Jr. Tom Morris Sr. Willie Park Sr. Jamie Anderson Tommy Armour Julius Boros Billy Casper Henry Cotton Jimmy Demaret Bob Ferguson Ralph Guldahl Padraig Harrington Hale Irwin Cary Middlecoff Larry Nelson Nick Price Denny Shute Vijay Singh Payne Stewart -

18 14 11 9 9 8 7 7 7 7 7 6 6 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Jack Nicklaus - 20 Tiger Woods - 17 Bobby Jones - 13 Walter Hagen - 11 John Ball - 9 Ben Hogan - 9 Gary Player - 9 Arnold Palmer - 8 Tom Watson - 8 Note: The two amateur majors that are counted at the U.S. Amateur and British Amateur championships.

Seve saw it

“

Remembering Medinah 2012 and the astonishing European Ryder Cup success

By A Lyon Dean

MEDINAH, Ill. -- This story begins on a sandy beach in the north of Spain. A boy with an old 3-iron. Hitting stones. Severiano Ballesteros, who in time would work magic. Better with a 3-iron out of a greenside bunker than most men with a sand wedge.

Seve would win in ways no one else could imagine. To call him beautiful is to be precise, for he came to the world with looks and charm and with a gift of talent that he shared with us all.

He died a year ago, 54 years old, a cancer in his brain.

He was in Chicago during the historic Ryder Cup win for Europe in 2012 according to Olazabal. Sunday morning , before anyone struck a golf shot in this Ryder Cup, the European captain, Jose-Maria Olazabal, told a reporter, "I felt Seve in the team room last night."

They'd been friends and partners, Ballesteros and Olazabal.

Both won the Masters. They won and lost Ryder Cups together. They shared life. Sewn into the left sleeve of the European team's shirts for the Sunday singles competition, Olazabal had asked for the iconic image of Seve, an arm raised, Seve triumphant.

.

�

This was the kind of day Seve Ballesteros lived for. It was a day when something gets done that no one thought could be done. To win the Ryder Cup, the Europeans needed an historic, unprecedented comeback. They needed to win 8 of 12 singles points on the other team's home course.

They won 8.5.

They won those points against an American dozen that had nearly turned the thing into a rout in the first two days. As the shadows lengthened at Medinah Country Club late that fateful Saturday afternoon, the U.S. led, 10-4. With 14 points available, needing only 4 to win, a certain confidence settled on the Americans -- until, in Saturday's last two four-ball matches, the Europeans produced unlikely victories.

Sergio Garcia and Luke Donald defeated Tiger Woods and Steve Stricker. Then came Ian Poulter, the fire-breathing Englishman, "a cross between Rod Stewart and Sid Vicious," broadcaster Peter Jacobsen called him. Came Ian Poulter with five straight birdies on the last five holes to beat Jason Dufner and Zach Johnson.

There, in Poulter's work, was the turning point in this story.

Poulter recognized it. "It was amazing to see the atmosphere change in that team room," he said. "The spirit, I mean, it just changed. ... All week we'd been beaten quite clearly, and we just felt there was that little glimmer of

Crazy happened. Seve saw it. (Cont.)

Two hours into Sunday's rounds, the glimmer had grown to a glow. Midway through most of the 12 matches, the Europeans led three and were all-square in seven. Suddenly, the game was afoot.

On a golden autumn day, with Medinah's thousands of trees blazing orange, red, and yellow, the Ryder Cup became the best sports event in America. Better than any World Series spread over two midnight-oil weeks ... better than any NBA Finals, because, really, Oklahoma City? ... better than any Super Bowl because Mother Nature's spectacle is better than anything the NFL can create ... better, mostly, because the Ryder Cup is golf, and golf, more than any sport, gives us real narratives that, in the best of its stories, cause us to wonder how in hell anybody can breathe let alone draw it back for a shot over a pond the approximate size of the Atlantic.

Then the blue went up on the scoreboards, the European blue.

The Scotsman, Paul Lawrie, defeated Brandt Snedeker, 5-and-3.

That wasn't supposed to happen. Then Rory McIlroy defeated Keegan Bradley, 2-and-1 -- this after McIlroy had lost track of Illinois time and needed a state-trooper escort to reach Medinah 12 minutes before his tee time. Next, Poulter defeated Webb Simpson, 2-up, and he talked, haltingly, of "this good man on my left sleeve right now that's going to pull us through this."

A fantasy, that. But the signs were there for those who would see.

It turns out that McIlroy can make six birdies in Ryder Cup play without warming up, unless stuffing a breakfast sandwich into one's mouth while putting on one's shoes is warm-up enough at age 23. Soon enough, three Europeans had chipped in for birdies from distances as great as 100 feet.

There were groups behind, the story moving quickly to its end now.

Lee Westwood heard silence and knew what it meant during his match with Matt Kuchar: "Quiet... then you knew that when you start hearing fans, 'Matt, we need you, they are under pressure."

The story is things we didn't know. "A Ryder Cup is not for the faint of heart," Poulter said, and the Belgian Nicolas Colsearts said, "It gets you through the guts." The Canadian sportswriter Bruce Arthur, in a tweet, called the developing story a mash-up of "Happy Gilmore and an Idiocracy Presidential convention." Meaning, let's guess, that Arthur liked the goofy improbability of it all. "It's what golf is all about," U.S. team captain Davis Love III said.

Now we have seen Keegan Bradley on fire. We have seen Jason Dufner impervious. Tiger Woods, the ultimate soloist, came down the first fairway this morning to cheer for a teammate. Zach Johnson has iron in his spine.

All those Europeans, with their stout hearts, earned this Ryder Cup; with the Cup at stake, they made 51 birdies to the Americans' 44. This after trailing in birdies the first two days, 99-74.

Whoever wrote this implausible story foreshadowed its end early. The fourth American out, Phil Mickelson seemed to have a critical point won only to see the Englishman Justin Rose steal it by rolling in three straight putts on the last three holes, the last two for heroic birdies.

And Rose said of his last stroke, "As soon as I holed that putt, and as soon as I came off the green, my first thought was of Seve."

"He's been an inspiration for this team all week long, and who knows, if something crazy happens today, I know that were are going to be looking upwards."

Crazy happened. Seve saw it.

BJORN

AGAIN

(*may contain other bad puns)

By A Lyon-Dean

I probably never really 100% believed that I was going to play that well again," added the man who was runner up at the 2000 and 2003 Open Championships.

During this period of fluctuating fortune Bjorn has developed into a genuinely big beast in golf politics.

He revels in the power games of committee and board rooms.

Bjorn became chairman of the Tournament Committee in 2007.

Articulate and insightful, the Dane exerts intelligent authority as chairman of the European Tour's Tournament Committee.

At the same time he is nurturing a game that looks capable of influencing the outcome of many an event in 2014. Indeed in the year of his 43rd birthday Bjorn appears destined for a Ryder Cup return.

He would be playing for a captain chosen by the committee he chairs. Not that you will find Bjorn daring to think that far into the future. Playing for Paul McGinley's Europe this autumn is parked firmly in the back of his mind. “I have to say the end of last year was probably my best golf since 2000/2001�

As he prepares for his first event of 2014 he isn't looking further than the end of January. This short-term thinking has been his approach during a three-year renaissance which has returned him to the form of his life.

Bjorn ended 2013 with victory at the Nedbank Challenge in Sun City having finished second in the World Cup in his previous event. In late summer he won the European Masters in Switzerland and he is back in the world's top 25.

This week he took time from his preparations for the Volvo Champions tournament in Durban to discuss with BBC Sport his sustained excellence on the course and the state of the European Tour.

"It was probably the first time I can ever remember coming into the last bit of the season feeling fresh in my mind and feeling really, really good about everything," Bjorn admitted.

"I had a golf swing that was working and a belief that was working and it was a great finish to the year, so you start a new year with a lot of hope."

Bjorn identifies the period at the end of 2009 when he committed to compete again at the highest level. Plagued by injury he hadn't won for three years and finished a lowly 91st on the European money list.

"I was just very determined to give myself one more chance of playing with the best in the world and not finish my career on a low," he said.

Bjorn ended 2013 on a high with victory in the Nedbank Challenge "It takes a long time to get back to absolutely believing that you are turning into that player again.

"I have to say the end of last year was probably my best golf since 2000/2001. That's a long time.

"I would be trying to find out what goes on anyway.

Now I get all the information up front and I know it before anyone else," he said.

"I enjoy doing it. It has its surprises once in a while that you might not enjoy so much but any job you take on in the world would be like that.

"I feel I have the confidence of th e players and as long as I do that it is something I will continue to do."We get a lot of things done. It might not look like it at times but we do," Bjorn added.

His primary role is to keep Europe's biggest stars happy.

Bjorn with the European Masters won at Crans Sur Sierre,

Continued..

He constantly reminds them that this is where their careers began and urges them to reserve "that one percent" for the tour that spawned the opportunities they have today.

The 15-time winner is convinced the controversy of forcing players to play two out of three events in the Final Series is close to being resolved. "I had conversations with pretty much all of them and we are not that far apart," he said.

But Bjorn accepts that the European Tour will continue to struggle to compete with the all-powerful PGA Tour in the US. "We can still have a tour that works even though we have a tour in America that is bigger and stronger.

"We have just got to realise that this is the case and the European Tour might never be as strong as the PGA Tour."

He regards the recent appointment of a chairman of the Tour's board from the world of business as inevitable. David Williams succeeds Neil Coles and becomes the first non-professional golfer to fulfill the role.

"It's a sign of the times, that's the way we have got to go. We have got to have our business relationships so strong today with massive companies around the world," Bjorn said.

"We've got to have the people that can go into those relationships that have the knowledge of how to deal with that.

"Yes, the players wanted change and they got change but I don't believe it was so much a push from the players rather than it was‌

‌just a sign that this is the route that everybody knew we had to go," he added. Thomas Bjorn looking at Ben trophy hoisting aloft the claret jug in 2003.

Bjorn believes there will be more changes to the tour's hierarchy.

He describes these as "interesting times" but warns that caution is also needed. "Sometimes in business you can jump in too hard," he said.

Wise words from a man embarking on the 19th year of his career.

"I was very determined when I became chairman that I didn't want to leave it in a worse place when I finish the job," he said.

"We have gone through a really, really rough time in the world financially and that's something that we probably felt more than anybody. We are coming out of it now and hopefully we can start growing again."

While it seems the Tour is back on an upward curve we know that Bjorn's golf is already in that position.

Can he translate this stellar form into a return to a certain match to be played at Gleneagles in September?

"Hopefully Ryder Cups will come my way as a bonus from staying determined and focused on playing good golf." It is a typically pragmatic response to the prospect of returning after a 12-year absence.

And heading into the new year there's little reason to believe he won't return to McGinley's side to face the US. Especially as you know he will be observing the mantra that has been serving his golf and tour so well in recent times: "Just don't get ahead of yourself."

SPIETH AND WILLETT BRING ON THE YOUNG Ernie Els once landed himself in trouble by admitting there are occasions when pro golfers get out the wheelbarrow and fill it with cash.

The former Open champion's metaphor helped describe certain tournaments that exist primarily to bolster players' already bulging bank accounts.

In 2014, we've witnessed a couple of events that usually fall into this category - Tiger Woods' 18-man World Challenge Tournament in Florida, and the 30-strong field that competed at Sun City in South Africa.

However both tournaments were much more than vulgar moneymaking exercises. They proved their substance by yielding exciting winners with performances that create proper launch-pads for the 2015 season.

Admittedly Jordan Spieth, who romped to victory at Orlando's Isleworth club, and Danny Willett, who triumphed in South Africa, are both significantly richer than a week ago.

Willett pocketed ÂŁ680,000 from the second victory of his career while Spieth collected ÂŁ640,000 just a week after landing the Australian Open title to complete a stellar end to his year.

But the bigger benefit is the boost they gave to their overall golfing wealth. Both players delivered memorable displays that suggest they will win plenty more in the future.

There was also a decent Ryder Cup debut at Gleneagles, where he formed a formidable partnership with fellow Texan Patrick Reed. But it is during the past fortnight that he has genuinely elevated his standing.

A brilliant closing 63 in Melbourne had world number one Rory McIlroy purring in admiration. "You could give me another 100 rounds today at The Australian and I wouldn't sniff 63," McIlroy admitted in a congratulatory tweet.

Spieth then travelled 9,000 miles to the United States and romped around Isleworth in a record 26 under par to beat the rest by 10 strokes. It was the biggest winning margin of the year.

Yes, it was a limited field 'exhibition' but it still boasted a high-calibre line up. The strength and value of such a comprehensive victory should not be underestimated.

"He's playing some pretty special golf right now," said Woods, who finished tied last, 26 strokes behind.

For Woods, the significance of the week was simply his return to action.

He has clearly been working on a new swing to the neglect of his short game and a succession of duffed chips should not sound too many alarm bells at this stage.

Whether his tournament warrants the ranking points it is accorded is open to debate, but Spieth's return to the world's top 10 is thoroughly deserved.

Willett, meanwhile, is hurtling towards the all-important top 50 after his South African triumph. The Nedbank Challenge has a rich history and the Yorkshireman joins elite British company in becoming a winner there.

Sir Nick Faldo, Ian Woosnam, Lee Westwood and Colin Montgomerie are past champions of a tournament that has been on the calendar since Johnny Miller first won it in 1981.

Danny Willett Danny Willett held off a stellar field at Sun City to land his second European Tour title This victory has capped a landmark year for the likable Willett. He has climbed 60 places in the rankings and, since the US Open in June, had recorded five top-10 finishes prior to this triumph.

(Left) Spieth and Willett (Right)

Now up to 56 in the world, he is within touching distance of eligibility for a dream schedule that would allow him to play all of the biggest tournaments on both sides of the Atlantic.

(Below) Charley Hull But it was the manner of this win that was most impressive, shooting 65-66 over the weekend at Sun City. "He did everything really well," said compatriot Luke Donald, who finished third, six strokes behind.

"He drove it amazingly well on a tough, tight golf course. Every time the pressure was on he hit it down the middle," added the former world number one.

Fellow Englishman Ross Fisher was runner up and played in the final trio alongside Donald and Willett.

"Me and Luke didn't lose it - Danny went out there and won the tournament," Fisher said.

In the women's game, 22-year old Northern Irishwoman Stephanie Meadow came agonisingly close to securing a full LPGA card. She lost a marathon play-off spread over two days but still receives conditional status on the tour.

And Charley Hull, 18, has earned a similar standing by finishing 28th at that LPGA Qualifying School tournament.

In both the women's and men's games these are exciting and changing times. Indeed, potential abounds. And by the barrow-load.

Annika Sorenstam announced in May of 2008 that she would retire from competitive golf at the end of that season after one of the most successful and prolific golf careers (of any sex).

Since this Souvenir book is celebrating the Finest attributes, personalities and everything golf, we felt it apt to take a final look - or swing - at possibly the greatest of them all.

Annika Sorenstam is one of the greatest female golfers ever - many would say she's the best ever. Combining a cool efficiency with a passionate desire to win, Sorenstam was among the best players on Tour from her debut in the mid-1990s through the remainder of the decade.

But as the century turned, Sorenstam went on a run of success that rivals or surpasses anything else ever seen on the LPGA Tour.

Sorenstam preferred tennis in her childhood, but took up golf at age 12. She quickly became good enough to start winning, but was very shy. She's said that she sometimes blew shots in order to finish second and avoid having to talk to anyone after a win.

Sorenstam attended the University of Arizona where she was a two-time All-America selection and co-player of the year in 1991. She won the 1991 NCAA Championship and the 1992 World Amateur Championship.

Sorenstam turned pro in 1993 and was Rookie of the Year on the Ladies European Tour. She moved up to the LPGA in 1994 and, although she didn't win on the LPGA, was Rookie of the Year there, too. (She did get her first pro win in 1994 at the Women's Australian Open.)

That first LPGA win finally came at the 1995 U.S. Women's Open, and Sorenstam took off on what might be the best career in LPGA history. From 1995 through 2006, Sorenstam won eight money titles and never finished lower than fourth on the money list. She won 69 tournaments and 10 majors in that span.

Sorenstam was one of the best players throughout the mid- to late-90s, winning three times in 1997, six in 1997, four in 1998, twice in 1999, and five times in 2000.

Then she rededicated herself to being the best, hitting the gym to add strength - and yards to her drives. She befriended Tiger Woods and picked up some of Woods' practice habits; she improved her chipping and putting.

Sorenstam's domination from 2001-2005 was complete: she was money leader, low scorer and Player of the Year every year. Her win totals included 11 in 2002 and 10 in 2005.

She became one of the longest hitters on the tour without losing any of her pinpoint accuracy.

Along the way, she became much more comfortable in front of the cameras, her public demeanor becoming more confident, and won over many more fans.

At the 2003 Colonial, Sorenstam became the first woman since Babe Didrikson Zaharias to play on the PGA Tour. Sorenstam shot 71-75 and missed the cut, but earned plaudits for her play and the way she handled the publicity circus.

Sorenstam dominated the LPGA Tour again in 2005, but her play slipped in 2006 - with "only" three wins, she was surpassed by Lorena Ochoa at the top of the LPGA pecking order.

Sorenstam suffered a neck injury in 2007 that limited her schedule, and at the end of the year she had recorded only her second winless season on the LPGA. By early 2008, however, Sorenstam was back, with three wins early in the season. However, on May 13, 2008, Sorenstam announced it would be her final season on the LPGA Tour, and she left competitive golf at the end of the year.

factfile Date of birth: Oct. 9, 1970 Place of birth: Stockholm, Sweden LPGA Tour Victories: Major Championships: • Kraft Nabisco Championship: • LPGA Championship: • U.S. Women's Open: • Women's British Open:

72 10 2001, 2002, 2005 2003, 2004, 2005 1995, 1996, 2006 2003

Awards and Honors: • Member, World Golf Hall of Fame • Vare Trophy (low scoring average), 1995, 1996, 1998, 2001, 2002, 2005 • LPGA Tour money leader, 1995, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 • LPGA Tour Player of the Year, 1995, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 • LPGA Rookie of the Year, 1994 • NCAA Player of the Year, 1991 • NCAA All-American, 1991, 1992 • Member, European Solheim Cup team, 1994, 1996, 1998, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2007

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