Architect
Jeremy Turner
Established
2015
Par / Length
71 / 6600y
Access
Public / Visitors Welcome
Green Fee
$$$$$
Overview: Lofoten Links is an 18-hole seaside links on Gimsøya, above the Arctic Circle in Nordland. Jeremy Turner's routing works through sandy ground, exposed rock and coastal grass, with the Norwegian Sea shaping the visual and strategic character of several holes. It is a walking course where wind, changing light and the direction of the coastline are central parts of the round. The club notes that the golf season runs from May to mid-October, while the midnight-sun period from mid-May to late July gives the course an unusually long window of daylight.
History: The project started with a six-hole layout on 14 July 1998 and expanded to nine holes over the following years. Lofoten Links became a full 18-hole course in July 2015. The club's own history describes the development as the long realization of the Hov family's idea for golf on Gimsøya, working with architect Jeremy Turner.
Did You Know? The official course facts note that two Viking graves lie within the course. The routing therefore crosses a documented archaeological landscape as well as the beaches, rocky ground and coastal terrain that define the playing experience.
Harstad/Narvik Evenes Airport (EVE) is the most practical gateway, about 70-80 minutes by car and ferry from the course. Svolvær Airport (SVJ) is closer at 30-40 minutes but has very limited connections, mostly tiny Widerøe prop flights from Bodø. From Oslo, the most reliable route is a Widerøe flight to Evenes, then drive or take the short hop to Svolvær. Evenes is better for those renting a car and exploring the Vesterålen islands; Svolvær wins for the shortest transfer. In summer, the midnight sun makes daylight a non-issue, so the choice is purely logistical. Confirm seasonal schedules with Widerøe when booking.
Lofoten Links uses a fescue and bentgrass blend, both naturally tough, drought-resistant turf suited to windy coastal links. The course sits on sandy, well-draining soil, so it needs little irrigation even with the short Arctic growing season. From late May through July, the endless daylight drives nearly round-the-clock photosynthesis, producing a strong surge of growth. Staff then manage the main threats — wind drying and cold snaps — by adjusting watering and mowing. The result is not a lush carpet but a firm, fast, running links surface. Greens are typically at their best from mid-June through August, though the weather can shift the season.
Yes, rental sets are available on site, so golfers do not need to bring their own clubs across the Arctic Circle. It is advisable to reserve a set by email or phone ahead of the round, as the rental fee varies by season and is not published as a fixed rate. The course is walking-only, with no golf carts, so the rental set is carried for the full 6,600-yard links. Left-handed sets and specific shaft flexes may be limited, so preferences should be flagged when booking.
Answered by Leo, Bucketlist Golf's AI assistant, using the sources shown. Confirm fees and access with the club before booking.
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