Playing Golf in France
Originally posted on & updated on 16th November, 2024
From the revered Arnaud Massy, the hapless Jean Van de Velde to the Ladies European Player and Olympian, Céline Boutier, France has, despite the bemusement of many, contributed much to the history of golf, yet surprisingly remains sadly neglected for those seeking a green-based mini-break or holiday.
A Little History
Massy and Van de Velde are remembered for wildly contrasting reasons, Massy as the only Frenchman to win Hoylake’s Open Championship in 1907 and Van de Velde for committing golfing suicide at Carnoustie’s Open Championship in 1999 where, in a comedy of errors played out in front of a worldwide audience of millions, he wasted a three-shot lead to card a triple-bogey seven at the final hole before losing to Paul Lawrie in a dramatic play-off.
Céline Boutier, recognised as one of the top French female golfers, demonstrated her exceptional talent at this year’s Paris Olympics. Boutier has won multiple competitions on both the European and LPGA Tours. She made her country proud with an outstanding performance, and her skill and composure on the course have solidified her status as a leading figure in women’s golf.
Over 730 Golf Courses
From its beginnings as an elitist sport, golf now flourishes in France with around 735 courses (more than the combined total of the remainder of mainland Europe) at the mercy of the visiting player situated in some of the most beautiful parts of the world including the Loire Valley, Occitanie, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, the Alps and the Riviera.
Five years after Massy’s win, the Fédération Française de Golf (FFG) was created and the following year, France entertained the USA at La Boulie Golf Club situated near Versailles and Paris.
Top Golf Destination in Europe
Somewhat surprisingly, today France is one of golf’s top European nations in terms of clubs and players with over 402,000 regularly taking to the greens, including almost 100,000 ladies. And with such a diverse landscape coupled with cuisine of the highest quality it cannot be long before France becomes Europe’s number one destination for a golf-based break.
Another joy of seeing the sun reflect off your club in France is a more laid back, although no less committed, approach to the game with certain selection rights applying to tee-times and a welcome, relaxed attitude to speed of play and a genuine opportunity to integrate golf into your holiday plans. In the majority of clubs you will be classed not as a visitor but handed membership for the day with the added bonus that you may be able to play a further 18 holes, for free, later in the day.
From Fairways to Fine Wines
Playing golf in France offers many benefits that make it a unique and enjoyable experience for enthusiasts. France’s mild climate, particularly in regions such as the Dordogne and Provence, allows for year-round golfing, enhancing the appeal for locals and tourists. French golf clubs are known for their warm hospitality and emphasis on gastronomy, allowing players to enjoy and taste delicious French cuisine after a satisfying round. With excellent facilities and stunning natural backdrops, playing golf in France is more than just a sport, it’s an unforgettable experience that blends sport, leisure, luxury, delicious local food, fine wines and memories, potentially trophies!
Designed by Golf Greats
Gary Player (Taulane in Provence) and Jack Nicklaus (Golf de Paris International Club) have both designed courses in France along with Tom Simpson and Peter Alliss while four French courses were included in Continental Europe Golf Magazine’s top ten courses of 2000.
If you are considering taking your clubs on holiday, we do recommend a visit to the first golf club in France in Pau, which boasts 18 and 9 hole courses. Golf de Moliets is considered to be one of Europe’s top 25 courses while Les Bordes Golf International has been ranked as one of the top 50 courses outside the USA. American visitors may also like to visit Golf Club de Nimes whose 1897 clubhouse is a replica of the White House.
Notable Golf Courses in France
With courses to suit all players and handicaps, a climate enabling play most of the year, the difficult choice will be deciding where to play first. For serious players, here is a list of a few notable golf courses you may wish to experience :
Golf de Saint-Nom-la-Bretèche
Most players will be familiar with this name. Founded in 1856, this famous golf club is one of the oldest and most prestigious golf clubs in France. Situated in Yvelines, on the outskirts of the French capital, it has hosted numerous championships and is known for its challenging course and beautiful setting.
La Boulie Golf Club
Situated near Versailles and Paris, La Boulie Golf Club is a fantastic addition to France’s long list of top golf courses. It’s a historic club with challenging courses and a rich golfing tradition.
Le Golf National
Also located in Guyancourt near Versailles and home to the Ryder Cup in 2018, this iconic course, particularly the Albatros course, is renowned for its challenging layout and stunning scenery.
Le Golf de Chantilly
Located 45 km north of Paris, this 36-hole golf complex is renowned for its elegant atmosphere and high-quality facilities. It has hosted several major tournaments and is a favourite among golf enthusiasts.
Golf de Saint-Germain-en-Laye
Located in the heart of the countryside in the Yvelines, this club offers a picturesque setting and a challenging course. It is known for its prestigious history and has hosted numerous championships.
Golf de Seignosse
Golf de Seignosse is a fantastic golf course, often considered one of the best in France. It’s particularly popular among golfers who enjoy coastal courses, as it offers gorgeous views of the Landes coast.
Golf de Moliets
In the Landes in Nouvelle Aquitaine, as mentioned previously, Golf de Moliets is another great choice, especially for those who enjoy coastal golf. It’s a beautiful course with challenging holes and superb views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is considered to be one of Europe’s top 25 courses.
Les Bordes Golf International
Staying in the Landes, les Bordes Golf International is a private world-class golf course, consistently ranked among the top courses in Europe and one of the top 50 courses outside of the USA. Its challenging layout and natural beauty make it a must-play for serious golfers, those lucky enough to play there.
Golf du Médoc
Situated in the heart of Bordeaux wine country and classed among the 100 best golf courses in Europe, these two 18-hole courses are both technically challenging and visually stunning. The Châteaux course is known for its technical challenges, including narrow fairways and strategically placed bunkers, while the Vignes course offers breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards. They also host numerous professional and amateur tournaments, attracting golfers from all over the world.
Golf Chantaco in Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Located in the Basque area, near the Atlantic coast, this club is known for its beautiful setting and challenging course. It has hosted several major tournaments and is a popular destination for golf enthusiasts.
Golf de Taulane
In Provence in the south of France, Golf de Taulane is a highly regarded golf course, mainly known for its stunning countryside location and challenging layout. Designed by the legendary Gary Player, it’s a popular destination for golfers seeking a beautiful and challenging course.
Royal Mougins Golf Club
This course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Senior, features a challenging layout and stunning scenery. Whether you’re an experienced golfer or a beginner aiming to enhance your skills, this prestigious club provides everything necessary for an ideal stay on the Côte d’Azur.
Evian Resort Golf Club
The Evian Resort Golf Club is situated in the heart of the French Alps, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains, Lake Geneva and valleys. You may have seen this course on your favourite TV golf channel recently when Céline Boutier won the championship in 2023.
Chamonix Golf Club
Chamonix Golf Club is yet another excellent golfing location, especially for those who love dramatic mountain scenery. It offers a unique golfing experience and stunning views of Mont Blanc in the Alps.
Finding the Sweet Spot
If you’re a keen golfer and are considering buying a property in France, one of your main priorities will (or should) be to identify the “sweet-spot”, a strategic location from which you can reach several courses with great clubhouses within reasonable driving distance. Use our draw map to narrow down your search and register with us to receive alerts of properties in your preferred areas.
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