Go Golfing in France

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Golf is a popular sport in France as the 600 plus courses dotted about the diverse French landscape are proof. Historians believe that it was Mary Queen of Scots, as a by product of her marriage to Francis Dauphin in the mid 1500’s, that gave the game its boost. In fact, it’s thought the term “Caddie” comes from the French military “Cadets” that accompanied Queen Mary on her rounds. The oldest course on continental Europe was built in Aquitane in 1856, five years after the first course appeared in the British Isles in Scotland. The French commitment to golf in recent times began to manifest itself in the first victory by a Frenchman in the British Open achieved by Arnaud Massy in 1907. With France’s varied landscape the country presents courses winding through the foothills of the Alps, sunny tracks in Provence, links style courses in Brittany along with windswept routings that front the Atlantic Ocean. Access to even the most prestigious courses is possible as many of the clubs provide playing privileges to visitors to France. Among the most sought after among the French tracks are those in the historically rich Aquitane region near the area of Bourdeaux-Gironde where many of the courses welcome players between visits to breathtaking Chateaus and famous wineries. Two Championship caliber courses that have played host to scores of international and domestic competitions, located in the famous Medoc wine growing area, Les Chateaux and Les Vignes, are considered to be among the top 20 courses in Continental Europe. French Kings chose the Loire Valley for their residences and the very same environmental influences that attracted royalty make for excellent golfing experiences. Kissed by the warm, gentle breezes that prevail in this French “Centre” region, Le Golf National’s Albatross and Aigle courses attract visitors that appreciate its proximity to Paris (just an hour’s drive) on the outskirts of Versaille as well as the selection of the Albatross layout as the site of the 2018 Ryder Cup competition. The Vineuil Course at Chantilly, in metropolitan Paris, is thought of as one of the absolute best courses on French soil. Domaine & Golf de Vaugouard with it’s the tree lined course, abundant wildlife, picturesque water features and 17th century buildings makes for a memorable golfing experience. The Alsace region presents some worthy courses along the French border with Germany and Switzerland. Near Strasbourg, between medieval villages and vineyards is found outstanding golf at Le Kemperhof with its charming 18th century hotel and David Leadbetter Golf Academy. Nearby is the Wantzenau Golf Club that presents an American style layout resplendent with visual treats. The most popular region of France for visitors that enjoy golf is the Pas-de-Calais. Distributed among the interesting towns and landmarks are found a number of championship caliber courses including the 2 renowned tracks at Golf du Touquet and the regaled pair at Golf de Hardelot. Nearby the courses at Golf de Belle Dune and the challenging AA Saint-Omer Golf Club also are popular among visitors to the Calais region. Along the northwest coast of France the Brittany region presents Dinard Golf Club (the 2nd oldest in France) and the L’Etang course at Saint-Malo Golf Club as worthy tests along with Domaines des Ormes and its accompanying 3 star hotel and the a top 10 French layout at Golf du Val Andre among the Brittany region’s world class playing grounds. Great courses also await travelers in and around Cannes and Nice with the Cannes Mougins, Barbaroux and Fregate ranking among the top French offerings. Consider making your dream holiday in France truly unforgettable by adding Play Golf in France to your list. Take along your clubs or rent a set there and visit some of the country’s finest golf facilities. Between the wine tasting, touring of historic sites and gastronomic adventures you’ll need to plan some time to slip in a little golf on world class courses that will make your trip all the more memorable.

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