The game of golf dates back centuries to Scotland. But here in Estonia, golf is a much more recent phenomenon. The first golf course in Estonia — and the first course in the Baltics — opened in 1993. Since then, the sport has been gaining traction with locals and visitors from abroad. If you're coming to play from outside the country, congratulations — you have just discovered European golf's best-kept secret!
Estonia is the perfect destination for golf lovers, with seven world-class courses making the most of the countryside's forests, rivers, and sandy coastal areas. The season typically lasts from May to November, and all courses are within easy driving distance of Tallinn. The more adventurous can even hop on a short flight to Saaremaa to play a round at Saare Golf. Estonia's compact size means it's easy to play on more than one course even if you're just here for a short weekend stay.
Golfing near Tallinn
History buffs can also visit Tallinn's stunning Old Town after spending time on the greens near Tallinn. For those who'd prefer to relax in nature after a game, check out the boardwalks that traverse Viru Bog or Kakerdaja Bog. Once you work up an appetite, head to town for a MICHELIN-Starred meal or check out one of the many restaurants in Tallinn to receive a mention in the first-ever Estonian edition of the MICHELIN Guide.
Rae Golf
Rae Golf Club is the largest golf club in Estonia. The Rae Golf Academy has 11 coaches, over 200 juniors, and over 200 adults, making it the largest golf academy in the Baltics. Rae Golf Course is also the closest course to Tallinn, with one of Northern Europe's most modern driving ranges. After a round of golf, you can relax in the sauna and refresh yourself by swimming in the pond. The golf center also has a restaurant and a playground for the youngest visitors.
Estonian Golf & Country Club
Estonian Golf & Country Club was voted the best golf course in Estonia in 2021 by World Golf Awards. Situated in a rural, coastal environment beside the Baltic Sea, the Sea Course meanders through virgin forest. Complementing the Sea Course is its sister, the Stone Course, which is hewn from an ancient archaeological site and is set to be redesigned by 10-time major champion Annika Sörenstam as part of ambitious plans to create a complete family leisure resort. The clubhouse has a pro shop, locker rooms with saunas, a restaurant with a spacious terrace, a cozy seminar room, and a golf library.
Niitvälja Golf
As the oldest golf course in the Baltic states, Niitvälja is the pioneer of Estonian golf. For many years, Estonian golfers have chosen Niitvälja as the country's best golf center. The 18-hole Park course is characterized by its natural features, including untouched forests and an abundance of water. Niitvälja Golf is home to the oldest international golf tournament in the Baltics, Niitvälja Karikas, which has been held annually since 1993.
Courses further afield
Otepää Golf & Country Club
Otepää Golf & Country Club is located in an ancient forest between beautiful lakes in Otepää Nature Park. Picturesque nature and rolling hills make the golf game both fun and challenging. Otepää Golf also has seminar rooms making it a top choice for companies wanting to get their employees out of the office and into a more relaxing environment for a day.
After you're done on the golf course, take in all the cultural experiences South Estonia has to offer. Tartu, Estonia's second-largest city, is home to the Estonian National Museum. Or head off the beaten path to Setomaa to learn more about the Seto people who have made their home in this region for hundreds of years. Leelo, a type of polyphonic folk singing, was added to the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage in 2009.
Saaremaa Golf & Country Club
Alongside the medieval town of Kuressaare on Estonia's largest island, golfers can experience one of the top golfing destinations in the Baltics. Saare Golf provides a unique opportunity to combine championship-level golf with Kuressaare's many attractions, all situated within a convenient 10-minute walk of the course. The course was designed by renowned Finnish golf architect Lassi Pekka Tilander, and its layout takes advantage of nature's handiwork to challenge golfers of every skill level.
A trip to Saaremaa would not be complete without some time at the spa. Spa holidays are big on Saaremaa, so you can take your pick of one of the eight spa hotels in and around Kuressaare.
Golfing near Pärnu
The last two courses are a short drive from Pärnu, Estonia's de facto summertime capital. The beautiful sea views make these courses worth the trip down from Tallinn. Pärnu is the place to be in summer, thanks to its long, sandy beach, lively cafes, and packed event calendar. For golfers, autumn is an even better time to visit, as you'll enjoy the gorgeous fall foliage and a much more relaxed atmosphere.
White Beach Golf
White Beach Golf is located near one of the most beautiful beaches in Pärnu Bay, Valgeranna. Designed by Kosti Kuronen, White Beach Golf is the first 18-hole golf course in Pärnu County. In addition to the Audru River meandering along the course, numerous artificial lakes and hills will add excitement to the game.
Pärnu Bay Golf Links
Pärnu Bay Golf Links is a links course in the true sense of the word: a coastal stretch of land with sandy soil and fescue grasses — a true test of every golfer's abilities. The course is located 10 minutes outside of Pärnu, the summer capital of Estonia. The course was designed by architect Lassi Pekka Tilander and is the first links course in the Baltic region. There is also a par-three course of 5 holes, driving range, putting green, a seaside clubhouse with a fully equipped pro shop, saunas, and a restaurant offering local flavors with a Nordic twist.
Pack your clubs or rent some, bring your family or come with friends. Pick a course and enjoy Estonian nature. Fore!
