Finland Golf, Tapiola Golf Course in Espoo, July 2026

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When we first walked into the Golf Clubhouse there was limited “shop” area which was surprising. There was a nice dining area and the “front desk” was large. We were greeted by Nicholas, whom we had spoken with the day prior because we were debating on changing dates due to weather/rain.  But we stayed with the plans and hoped for the best!

Overall the weather was fine. While it was one of our only rainy-ish days on our 16 day trip, thankfully it was only rainy on the 2nd half and not too heavy! 

Back to the Clubhouse, because on the lower level was a complete Golf Center and Shop, similar to a PGA Tour Superstore!  You can shop all things golf, practice at the two-tiered but small driving range and take real and simulated lessons. 

Our Tee-Time was at 11:40am because there was a local tournament, so we played behind that last group.  We were not paired up with anyone and there was no starter. It’s the honor system.  You just go out there and start at your time.

It was a very nice Links course.  This week everyone started at 10.  And at 10 there is a nice Halfway House with bathrooms and snacks - even Ice Cream. All the Nordic countries love their Ice Cream.

Each hole has great signage with the layout that is helpful, since it’s not on the scorecard and they did not have a book that most courses usually provide. The great signs include both the layout and a very informative, supportive and inspirational summary with great positivity!  They say Finland is the “happiest place on earth” and that shines through even here.  For example, on hole 13, the last sentence reads, “Cast your brain in concrete, strike firmly to the green, a couple of putts, and that’s it!” 

They also did not have any Logo Markers, which we collect so we settled for a Logo’d Divot repairer, which was also magnetic! There are several Tee Boxes well labeled, with broken Tee holders and there are Layout Signs in two locations.  And when playing from the forward Tee, and the other Tees you have to walk back to hit from, there is a great protective barrier to keep us forward-tee-hitters safe!

The course is lined with tall evergreen trees and within them are a whole lot of hills and fescue grass. Tees, Fairways and Greens are in beautiful condition.  The Greens are very challenging with tons of levels and pin placements in places that lead to “fun” trying to stay under 2 putts!

Hole 12 on the right there are a ginormous amount of bunkers and they are nicknamed, “The Sahara”!  Hole 15 is the number 1 handicap and on the sign it says, “Good Luck with the putting, this Green has never shown mercy to anyone”. 

A wonderful course to play if you are in the area.  We also enjoyed a bite to eat in the Dinning room overlooking the course.  The food was delicious and very friendly service.

If you are spending time in Finland, we also recommend:

• Take a walking tour to learn about the history and architecture

• Take a ferry to Suomenlinna Fortress

• The White and Red Churches, and the Rock Church

• Marimekko!

• Sibelius Monument and Olympic Stadium

• Oodi Library