There are fewer tougher challenges in golf than the 9 holes of snow-covered extreme golf in Bjorkliden, Swedish Lapland. It is extreme golf.
Situated 250 miles north of the Arctic Circle, Bjorkliden is not only one of the best destinations for the northern lights, but also delivers the chance for you to ski, go dog sledding and play a truly unique round of golf – all on the same day.
This extreme golf course, which is the most northerly in Sweden, is nestled amongst the arctic mountains providing some shelter from the sub-zero winter. The course plays as a more familiar grass-covered round during the summer months but is then buried under metres of Arctic snow during the winter.
In 2012 the course was first prepared for the winter season using ski-slope preparation vehicles rather than the more commonly seen mowers to groom the fairways and greens.
Jonny Cooper, director of Off the Map Travel, said: “It really is a strange experience. Not only are you dressed in a few more layers than normal, you really do have to play the most accurate golf of your life. If you thought it hard looking for your ball in the rough, try a snowdrift!”
This unique experience takes an even more incredible turn, as the course can also played with a guide at night under the splendour of the northern lights. Specially designed glowing golf balls are used to make it all possible. Jonny continues: “This really is an experience every golfer should have. It takes the concept of golf to a completely new level and really puts a huge smile on your face.”
Specialist soft adventure travel company, Off the Map Travel work in partnership with Bjorkliden to organise tailor-made trips to Northern Sweden with prices starting from £975 per person based on 2 sharing for 3 nights, not including flights.
For more information on Bjorkliden for extreme golf visit www.offthemaptravel.co.uk
