The Best of Golf In

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THE BEST OF GOLF IN

FRANCEA 40-PAGE GUIDE TO GOLF IN THE HOST COUNTRY OF THIS YEAR’S RYDER CUP

WIN A luxury Paris golf break worth £3,000!

PARISIAN KNIGHTS BEST-KEPT SECRET The capital boasts Europe’s two Classic courses and renowned best courses plus Ryder Cup host wines combine in Aquitaine VARIETY AND VALUE SOUTHERN COMFORT Easy access and 50 courses Class, style and charm in Nice, in Normandy and Brittany Provence and Cote d’Azur

PLUS: AN EXCEPTIONAL TRIO AND INCREDIBLE DEAL ON THE OPAL COAST

Cover image: The 15th hole at Hardelot’s Les Pins course. adRocket

FP_GOLFWORL_360911id3485022.pdf 15.05.2018 14:54 GUIDE TO FRANCE

WELCOME TO FRANCE What makes France and museums, but you might be driveable par 4s and some epic short such a great choice for a surprised to learn it hosts some of holes and you have everything you golf break? Convenience, Europe’s very finest golf courses. need to create plenty of Ryder Cup accessibility and value Morfontaine and Fontainebleau, for drama. I’m hoping the huge attention immediately spring to example, are consistently placed in the event generates finally puts France mind. But, for me, the biggest draw is the highest echelons of our Top-100 on the map as a golf destination. versatility. Long weekend? Stick your Courses Continental Europe ranking. This guide highlights the five key car on Le Shuttle at Folkstone and However, this year, I would be golf regions in France and some of you’ll be on the tee at the revamped remiss if I did not mention the one the best golf to be found in each area Le Touquet or Hardelot less than Parisian course we will all be familiar – from links to woodland, heathland, two hours later. Sunshine and wine- with come September – Le Golf parkland and resorts. We also tasting? Jet into Marseille and either National. While it may not be the introduce you to tour operators and head east along the coast to the city’s most aesthetically-pleasing golf networks, and reveal some of the sumptuous Terre Blanche or west to course, it’s certainly the most more interesting off-course cultural, the Seve Ballesteros-designed Pont challenging. The venue of the Open historical and gastronomical delights. Royal, taking your pick of a de France on the European Tour is a In short, everything you need to book multitude of good courses – and hugely technical golf course with a great golf break in this beautiful chateaux – along the way. Sightseeing danger lurking at every turn – country is at your fingertips. Enjoy! and culture? You won’t need me to especially over its four-hole closing tell you Paris has some of the world’s stretch where water lurks everywhere. Nick Wright finest architecture, restaurants, galleries Throw in some do-or-die par 5s, Editor, Golf World

TOP 100 QUALITY France has 16 courses in our Top 100 Courses Continental Europe list.

1. Morfontaine, Paris 3. Les Bordes, Orleans 6. Fontainebleau, Paris 11. Chantilly, Paris 14. Golf du Medoc (Châteaux), Bordeaux 15. Terre Blanche (Chateau), Fayence 19. Saint Germain, Paris 24. Hardelot (Les Pins) 32. Golf National, Paris 57. Sperone, Corsica 51. Seignosse, Landes 52. Golf du Medoc (Vignes), Bordeaux 31. Le Touquet (La Mer), Pas de Calais 73. Chiberta, Landes 77. Saint Emillionais 87. Moliets, Landes The beautiful 2nd hole at Morfontaine in Paris – ranked No.1 in our Top-100 Courses Continental Europe ranking.

WEB: www.privategolfkey.com EMAIL: [email protected] TEL: +33 (0) 1 4122 9611

The Open Issue 2018 Golf World 91 TOUR OPERATORS AND NETWORKS

EXPERT ASSISTANCE YOUR PASSPORT TO FRANCE’S CLASSIC COURSES

henever you venture deliver innovation, great service and courses including several big names. overseas to new top-class golf. The BG stable includes Within France, OGC represents 25 countries, regions and courses in Alsace, Aquitaine, Brittany, exceptional courses, many among the W golf courses, how handy Bourgogne, the Centre, Franche-Comté, Top 100 in Continental Europe, would it be to have a local guide on Îll de France, Languedoc-Roussillon, including Le Touquet’s myriad options, speed dial. Someone who knows Midi Pyrénées, Pas de Calais, Provence- Hardelot’s duo, Biarritz le Phare, the everything about everything you will Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Pays de la Loire, magnificent Château de Vigiers and need when you land on the other side of Poitou-Charentes and Rhône Alpes. 2018 Ryder Cup host Le Golf National. the Channel – from where to go and Big-name venues include Seignosse, This powerhouse stable is complemented what to experience to the crucial Pléneuf-val-André, Le Golf National, by hotels close to each course, offering information on how to get on to the Hardelot, Pont Royal, Le Touquet and three and four-star accommodation. courses you choose. Luckily, a number Omaha Beach – but there are a wealth The benefits: Open Golf Club can take of golf management companies and of courses of all budgets and types to care of packages, green fees, golf passes tour operators now offer their expertise choose from. and gift certificates, leaving you free to to assist you in discovering the best The benefits: Blue Green card holders enjoy your golf break. experiences within France. With their save 25 per cent on full-price green Details: www.opengolfclub.com help, you can organise the perfect trip, fees and reduced fees for bookings and secure the best deals and access. on bookandgolf.com. It’s valid for a PRIVATE GOLF KEY Here are four of the very best networks. year and includes complimentary green Established in 1992 to fees on the date of issue. spread the gospel of the U GOLF Details: www.bluegreen.com game in France, Private Golf Founded in 2007 to Key has helped build the nation’s make golf accessible OPEN GOLF CLUB reputation as one of the key destinations to the greatest number of people, U Boasting a strong family in world golf. But more than that, PGK Golf brings the experience of golf to tradition in tourism and has sought to celebrate the French Art France and beyond. Its Le ClubGolf high-end leisure sports for de Vivre, celebrated the world over. network gives access to more than 350 more than 50 years, OGC has a Private Golf Key gives you member-level courses worldwide. Offered through presence in nine countries – including access to all the most prestigious golf three brands, from Garden’Golf and France, Belgium, Luxembourg, clubs in Europe including private Daily’Golf, to the more upmarket Netherlands, Spain and Portugal. The country-clubs. Experience off the Exclusiv’Golf, on courses that have group offers a choice of 55 quality beaten tracks travel with your friends Châteaux attached, with emphasis on and discover the rich European heritage excellent public courses around Paris. playing historic golf courses where The benefits: U Golf’s BINGOlf Pass YOUR DREAM FRENCH GOLF legends have played. offers various tiers of membership that From start to fin, Private Golf Key offer unlimited and exceptional golf BREAK IS A CLICK AWAY takes care of every step, be it an eight- for a one-off fee. The Play Golf in France website day Paris Top Golf Courses package, www.jouer.golf offers essential information on Bordeaux Wine & Golf or the full France’s key golf tourism regions. Ryder Cup package. BLUE GREEN The website incorporates an The benefits: As the name suggests, exhaustive list of ‘must play’ courses One of the biggest golf in France and has official support of Private Golf Key can open doors you course management the French Golf Federation. wouldn’t otherwise be able to access, for companies in Europe with For more information, visit: once-in-a-lifetime golf (and beyond) 49 clubs across France, many of them www.playgolfinfrance.com experiences. down the west coast, Blue Green aim to Details: www.privategolf key.com n

WEB: www.privategolfkey.com EMAIL: [email protected] TEL: +33 (0) 1 4122 9611

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Thursday, 4th October 2018 PLAY THE 2018 RYDER CUP COURSE

Live an exclusive golf experience on the doorstep of Paris.

ï 1 Round of Golf on The 2018 Ryder Cup Course, ï Breakfast, Gourmet lunch & Champagne cocktail ï Welcome golf goodies & Prize giving ceremony Package price per golfer : £500

+33+33 (0)1(0)1 4411 2222 9966 1111 [email protected]@privategolfkey.com

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BARRIÈRE, A STATE OF MIND

BARRIÈRE GOLF CLUBS SWING & GREEN

Between land and sea. Iconic courses. Spectacular landscapes. The Barrière Hotels provide special access to the most beautiful golf clubs in France. Deauville, La Baule, Dinard and le Touquet... 4 exceptional destinations offer the greens of over 25 affiliated golf courses, including 3 Barrière Golf Clubs: Golf Barrière Deauville, Golf Barrière Saint-Julien and Golf International Barrière La Baule. Fun, technical challenges, practice and thrills are all available across their wide variety of greens.

INCREDIBLE NORMANDY From the green slopes of the Pays d’Auge to the elegant Planches boardwalk in Deauville, great opportunities await. A breathtaking view from atop the cliffs of Etretat or a land steeped in history surrounding Golf Omaha Beach. Each and every course offers a unique, spectacular view. Golf Barrière Deauville, set at the foot of Hôtel du Golf Deauville****, offers diverse courses and breathtaking vistas. The 18 holes of the Rouge & Blanc course present numerous birdie opportunities.

ATLANTIC MOOD Nestled between umbrella pines and turquoise ocean, the high prestige of the greens of the Loire-Atlantic region owes LíHÙtel du Golf Deauville****

much to the spectacular surrounding Rambert © F. landscapes: discover golf clubs immersed in the beauty of nature which are regularly YOURS IN SPORT cited as among the most magniﬁcent Discover the Côte d’Opale through the in France. Golf International Barrière La greens and driving ranges of Le Touquet. Baule and its duo of courses guarantee A resort renowned for its lively and a competitive, exciting and technically distinguished atmosphere, Le Touquet challenging round of golf. Surrounded by invites golfers of all abilities to take on thousand-year-old forests and the Emerald an outstanding course. Thanks to the Coast, Dinard sparkles in splendour. diversity of the region’s courses, you can

Golf du Touquet

perfect your swing in a unique setting. Golf Le Touquet Paris Plage and its legendary courses, set between wild dunes and dense forests, offers golfers the chance to get away from it all, enjoy themselves and relax.

PUBLICOMMUNIQUÉ 2018

210X297 publi redac GOLF 2018.indd 1 16/05/2018 18:07 FP_GOLFWORL_210X297pubid3507262.pdf 04.06.2018 14:48 PRIZE DRAW

WIN A GOLF BREAK IN PARIS WORTH £3,000 You can stay at the palatial Mandarin Oriental, Paris – one of the city’s most desirable addresses – and play the 2018 Ryder Cup venue Le Golf National.

rivate Golf Key – the expert in The spaciousness of its 138 guestrooms To enter, answer the following question: luxury French golf breaks – and is enhanced by a contemporary French WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE Mandarin Oriental, Paris have design and oriental touches. FRENCH GOLF COURSE FROM Pteamed up to offer one lucky And as you’d expect of this THOSE ON PRIVATE GOLF reader and a partner the chance to enjoy gastronomic capital, fine dining is a key KEY’S LIST? a luxury golf break in one of Europe’s ingredient of your stay. The hotel boasts most enchanting cities and one of the four distinct dining experiences, from Choose your favourite course from those at www.privategolfkey.com/play world’s most impressive hotels. the sensory experience of Sur Mesure Par Our lucky winner plus guest will Thierry Marx to the classic French receive two nights at Mandarin Oriental, dining experience of Camélia, and from Bauer Media competition T&Cs apply. Travel to and from Paris is at the winner’s expense. Paris including breakfast and a round of the irresistible Cake Shop, to the golf on Le Golf National. exquisite L’Honoré. Named after the All transfers are included, with a street where the hotel is located, private driver during the three days and L’Honoré offers a healthy food menu THE KEY TO SUCCESS a wine tasting in a private ‘cave’. served in the cosy and tranquil Paris and Le Golf National will Mandarin Oriental, Paris is at the very atmosphere of the lobby alcoves. host the next Ryder Cup in centre of everything you could wish for Mandarin Oriental, Paris is also your a year’s time, only the second time Continental Europe has staged the in a true Parisian experience; culture, home for unrivalled leisure and pampering. tournament after Valderrama in 1997. fashion and gourmet dining. Work up a sweat in the cutting-edge To plan any visit to the city before, Its address is in rue Saint-Honoré, one fitness centre, or relax in the peaceful during or after the Ryder Cup, contact of the most fashionable streets in the green courtyard with its ambience of Private Golf Key, the specialist in golf world, where Parisians shop in style. The oriental calm. The Spa is a serene oasis, experience packages across Paris, world-famous Louvre is within a five- created for pure relaxation with steam France and beyond. For details, see minute walk, as are the elegant Tuileries showers, vitality tubs, a steam room the contacts below. gardens where Parisians stroll and relax. and pool.

WEB: www.privategolfkey.com EMAIL: [email protected] TEL: +33 (0) 1 4122 9611 THEREGIONAL GUIDE BEST OF PARIS Ahead of the first ever Ryder Cup on French soil, we visit Le Golf National to explore a course that will transfix the world for three days in September.

Looking back down the daunting par-4 15th and par-4 18th on the Albatros at Le Golf National.

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great Ryder Cup course needs shirt. It should ideally be a course that several things. It must offer ordinary golfers can go and play, both superb viewing opportunities before the Ryder Cup to get a taste of Afor tens of thousands of fans. what’s in store for the teams, and in the After all, Ryder Cup fans don’t just want many years afterwards, so fans can a spot to watch the golf; they want a attempt to recreate the magic moments stadium atmosphere where they can they watched unfold during the big three virtually surround tees and greens, days. But, perhaps more than anything, cheering the heroes of their team and the perfect Ryder Cup course is set up to booing the villainous players who dared produce almost guaranteed matchplay to turn out for the opposition. It needs drama, particularly in the closing stretch. to provide a stern challenge for 24 of the The Albatros Course at Le Golf world’s best golfers, but also offer transport links, car parking, National, home of this year’s Ryder Cup, opportunities for spectacular shots and infrastructure, and space for enough meets all these requirements in the resulting birdies and eagles. It needs refreshment stands and merchandise abundance, and could hardly be more to tick the unsexy but important stalls to ensure you’re never more than primed to generate the kind of dramatic logistical boxes of accessibility, public 50 yards from a hotdog or logoed polo moments that fans will remember for

WEB: www.privategolfkey.com EMAIL: [email protected] TEL: +33 (0) 1 4122 9611

The Open Issue 2018 Golf World 97 PARIS

Whether it’s sand, water, rough or simply a fast green, there’s always a hazard nearby at Le Golf National.

a lifetime. More on a four-hole closing you’ve even had a chance to write on it. and approach. Your opening tee shot will stretch that could be the most dramatic Some modern courses choose to eschew likely be a long iron or hybrid, where of any Ryder Cup venue later… this policy, preferring to rouse early- water will penalise any shot hit left of the morning golfers with an immediate test fairway, or even a straight one that travels What it’s like to play that requires their full attention. The too far, as the fairway ends abruptly The traditional wisdom of golf course Albatros course, designed by Hubert between 200 and 240 yards, depending design was that the opening hole should Chesneau and Robert Von Hagge and on the tee you play from and the exact offer a warm welcome to the course. Not opened in 1990, definitely fits that latter line you take. If you’re thinking of a pushover, but not a hole with the style, greeting you with an opener that is playing safe by bailing out to the right, potential to ruin your scorecard before fraught with danger on both the tee shot think again. Dunes covered in heavy rough there will make your second shot almost impossible, if you manage to find PLAY IT offers mean you can get course you usually play. It your ball in the first place. Even a tee B&B in the on-site hotel, will likely be tougher than shot that safely finds the centre of the How to get there plus 18 holes, for €185 per your home club, anyway, so fairway will leave a tricky short to mid- Le Golf National is a three- person Nov-Apr and €210 adding an extra 500 yards iron into a green guarded by water left hour drive from Calais, two in peak season. 18 holes on could make things hours from Le Havre, or just the sister course, the Eagle, unenjoyably difficult, which and bunkers right. 30 minutes from Paris. costs €92 at weekends and isn’t what you came for. Water comes into play on 10 of the 18 €77 during the week. holes, not least the par-3 second, which is Where to stay Get a French golf licence 210 yards over water if you’re brave You can’t match the Choose the right tees A French Golf Federation (arguably foolish) enough to tackle it convenience of walking It’s always tempting to tee licence is €54 for the year from the back tee. You’re playing over from the on-site Novotel to it up from the back tees and gives you the benefit the first tee, which will take and pretend to be the pros. of insurance and reduced the same mass of water that may have a matter of minutes. The Unlike at some courses, Le green fees. It can be cost you a ball on the first hole, which four-star hotel offers Golf National won’t try to bought on site and will will make it all the more painful if you 131 rooms, some of which deter you from taking on reduce your green fee come up short on the second tee. overlook the final four holes this challenge, provided enough to more than pay Anything short will swim, but play of the Albatros Course. you keep up with the for itself in just one round. safe by going long and you’ll likely find Double rooms are available recommended pace of play. If you are playing more from £99. We’d recommend than once, it can yield yourself in one of three hungry bunkers, maximising your enjoyment some substantial savings. playing a nervy sand shot onto a green How much does it cost? by selecting a set of tees The licence lasts one that slopes straight back towards the 18 holes on the Albatros that make the course a calendar year, so hang onto water. That trend of greens guarded by Course is €200. Special similar yardage to the it for return trips. water on one side and bunkers on the other is present numerous times

WEB: www.privategolfkey.com EMAIL: [email protected] TEL: +33 (0) 1 4122 9611

98 Golf World The Open Issue 2018 adRocket

Head for Paris to enjoy a memorable golf experience and the best of French Art de Vivre at the 2018 Ryder Cup Venue. Philippe Millereau/Golf National - Non-contractual photo photo - Non-contractual National Philippe Millereau/Golf ©

A fantastic resort on the doorsteps of Paris

Beneﬁ t from our play and stay packages from as little as £120 (€137) Mention the code ´Ryder Cup 2018ª at the time of booking and get your hire buggy for FREE*

*according to availability of the buggies at time of booking on a ﬁ rst come ﬁ rst served basis for 2 people sharing. The price in euro is the public rate and the price in sterling is for information purposes only.

Play the Albatros, The 2018 Ryder Cup Course until August 31st 2018!

TOP 100 GOLF COURSES IN CONTINENTAL www.legolfnational.com EUROPE 2018

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throughout the 18 holes. There’s simply The par-5 third hole measures THREE MORE TO no safe place to miss on the majority of 558 yards off the black tees and 519 approach shots. You either hit the green, from the whites, so the temptation will PLAY IN PARIS… or you could find yourself struggling to be to go for it in two. It’s achievable, but Morfontaine Golf Club even escape with a bogey. requires an accurate tee shot that avoids It’s an exclusive, private members club, It’s exactly the kind of course you want the water on the right and the dunes on so it won’t be easy or cheap to play, but to tackle on a day when you’re playing the left, before a long approach shot to we could not leave out the course that tops our current Top 100 Courses well. Every fairway you hit, every green, green guarded by trees and a large Continental Europe ranking. The stunning every par, every birdie – will make you bunker short-right. Get either of those heathland layout will require some feel like you’ve truly earnt it. The course shots wrong and you’ll be wishing you’d advance planning to secure a tee time, doesn’t give you anything for free, which played it as a manageable three-shotter. but it will be well worth the effort. makes the sense of accomplishment all Certain pin positions should come the greater when you successfully with a health warning, but play too safe Fontainebleau This beguiling pine and heather Tom overcome its many challenges – even if away from them on expansive, slick Simpson layout is ranked sixth in our list it’s only for one hole. greens and you’ll leave yourself in a of European courses. While still a private Visit on a day when it feels like you’ve position where a three-putt is likely. The club, a gentle policy change means that left your golf swing in the hotel room, ultimate ignominy of putting off the visitors are increasingly being welcomed. however, and you’ll find a course ready to green into the water is a possibility on punish you at every turn. It’s certainly several greens if you happen to find Saint Germain not unfair, but there are plenty of yourself above the hole, putting back Designed by Harry Colt in 1922, the beautiful, undulating fairways weave instances where no strategy can towards the drink. through forest to produce a tranquil and guarantee safety; you simply need to hit a From the black tees, the par-71 layout heavenly golfing experience. If you stay good shot. Play too safe away from the measures 7,271 yards. From every other out of the 100 bunkers, that is. many water hazards and you’ll find set of tees, par is 72, thanks to the 18th severe slopes covered in thick, heavy hole becoming a par-5. The course rough. Finishing 18 holes with one ball is measures 6,830 yards from the whites, an achievement worthy of accolade. 6,402 from the yellow tees and 5,510 That said, you’ll still need to use your from the reds. brain as much as your swing if you want How long it feels will be determined to put together a good score or win a by the prevailing wind on the day. It’s an Morfontaine is Europe’s No.1 ranked course. match, whether there’s a Ryder Cup open layout, built on what used to be a point at stake or just bragging rights over cornfield, with very few trees to offer any your playing partners. shelter from the breeze. n

“The last four or five holes are going to create incredible drama,” says 2014 Ryder Cup captain A DRAMATIC Paul McGinley, and he’s not wrong. With more water than grass on this four-hole stretch, matches that go to the wire will really test the nerve of the players. One slightly erroneous shot at this stage CONCLUSION could cost you a ball, your match, or even the entire Ryder Cup. The closing hole at Le Golf National: not 15 The hardest hole on the shot. for the faint-hearted. the course measures Water will 408 yards from the black tee catch any shot and 377 from the yellows. It’s that comes up short, not length that makes the hole but play long and you’ll face so challenging, but the fact you a very testy chip towards the will need to hit two of your best water on a green that is now shots just to keep your ball on sloping away from you. dry land. Depending on the wind, you’ll need a long iron or 17 The penultimate hole 18 The final hole fairway wood from the tee to offers some respite from runs down the find a fairway flanked by water the watery doom awaiting you opposite side of the water down the right-hand side. You on the other three holes down that flanked the 15th, meaning will then be faced with a testing the final stretch, but there’s a left off the tee is dead. Heavy shot to a small, island green. reason it’s the fifth hardest hole rough and bunkers will catch There’s a good reason this hole on the course. At 480 yards, it’s any tee shot that goes too far second shot that finds dry land is dubbed ‘The Judge’. one of the longest par 4s on the right, making an already will grant players a sigh of relief. course, has a narrow fairway difficult approach shot over At least there’s no shortage of 16 Known as ‘The Call’, this flanked by heavy rough and water all the more challenging. water to throw the winning par 3 is all about choosing plays uphill to a severely raised With the wind whipping and captain into come Sunday the right club and committing to green. thousands of fans watching, a evening.

WEB: www.privategolfkey.com EMAIL: [email protected] TEL: +33 (0) 1 4122 9611

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The Beautiful South Experience sun, sea and sensational golf on France’s southern coastlines

GOLF DE SEIGNOSSE GOLF OPIO-VALBONNE For more information and to book your trip, For more information and to book your trip, visit: www.seignosse-golf.com visit: www.chateau-begude.com

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Masterpieces Reborn Experience two of France’s Top 10 courses Less than an hour’s drive from Calais

SUMMER OVERNIGHTER TO BOOK 1 night at Le Manoir Hôtel, 2 x rounds of golf Call: +33 3 21 06 28 28 (includes 18 holes at Le Touquet Golf Resort and Email: [email protected] 18 holes at Golf d’Hardelot) | From £155pp Quote ‘Golf World’

FP_GOLFWORL_3609118id3510179.pdf 07.06.2018 11:18 WHERE TO STAY Le Manoir hotel is yards from the 1st tee of Le Touquet’s new

clubhouse, so you have 45 holes

literally on your doorstep, while the other courses mentioned are within half an hour’s drive. Le Manoir is a characterful hotel with fabulous food and superb wine.

OPAREGIONAL GUIDE L COAST A trio of epic courses form the core of a trip to this north-eastern corner of France.

ith only eleven 18-hole let’s start this time with Wimereux. It’s A grand seaside course tucked away courses and three nine- the first golf course you encounter after among the 80-mile stretch of sand dunes holers in its portfolio, it’s leaving Calais and it’s no exaggeration to that link Dunkerque and Baie de Wdifficult to describe the state that within 30 minutes of driving Somme, Wimereux is the perfect Opal Coast as a heavyweight golf out of the port you can be sipping an introduction to golf in the region. destination. But when you consider that Espresso in the welcoming clubhouse. But to describe it solely as a warm-up three of the courses – Hardelot, Le act to the more celebrated Le Touquet Touquet and Wimereux – feature in our Wimereux is a firm and fast-running links- and Hardelot would be wholly unfair. At Golf World Top 100 Continental Europe style course with a set of challenging par 3s almost 6,800 yards off the tips and Courses and Resorts rankings, you’ll and some penal rough. featuring a selection of tough par 3s and begin to appreciate that quality over stiff rough, the course can comfortably quantity is the overriding mantra of this hold its own against any level of golfer, popular holiday destination. especially if the prevailing winds get a Le Touquet and Hardelot have little lively. Fun, friendly, down-to-earth grabbed most of the headlines for this and ever interesting, Wimereux walks region during the past several decades, so the fine line of being both playable

104 Golf World The Open Issue 2018 OPAL COAST

Following extensive renovation, Le Touquet now more closely resembles its original 1931 design.

WEB: www.privategolfkey.com EMAIL: [email protected] TEL: +33 (0) 1 4122 9611

The Open Issue 2018 Golf World 105 THE BEST OF THE OPAL COAST The Côte d’Opale Golf Pass is stunning value. Play six 18-hole rounds from nine selected golf courses in the region for €250! Given the pedigree of courses, this just might be the best value-to-quality green fee pass on the Continent.

Golf de Wimereux A fun seaside course that plays like a true links. www.golf-wimereux.com

Golf D’Arras A tough, demanding and strategic test of golf in the beautiful Scarpe Valley. www.golfarras.fr/en/home-2

Golf de Dunkerque Grand Littoral A characterful course played through bastions and artillery towers. www.golfnorthernfrance.com

Golf d’Hardelot The recently revamped Les Pins is one of Europe’s best. Les Dunes is also a must-play. www.hardelotgolfclub.com

Golf du Touquet The new La Mer course returns to its former fast-running, sandy links-style glory. www.opengolfclub.com

Golf de Nampont Saint-Martin A 36-hole complex that delivers a grand parkland and woodland experience. www.nampontgolfclub.com

Golf de Belle Dune An engaging blend of pines and dunes. www.baiedesomme.fr Hardelot’s Les Pins course cuts through a pine forest, but is Golf d’Abbeville blessed with sandy links-style turf. An engaging 18-holer that plays through valleys and plateaux on the edge of the Somme Bay. www.abbevillegolfclub.com and challenging. the difference is purely semantics. The Wimereux has appeared in many standout holes are the par-3 2nd, which Aa Saint Omer Golf Club guises over the years. It was originally plays some 200 yards downhill from an A European Tour host course that plays designed in 1901, but was given a elevated tee, the par-4 11th with its through pretty woodland terrain. complete makeover after World War II glorious vistas and the risk-or-reward www.golfsaintomer.fr by Guy Campbell and Cecil Hutchinson. short par-4 16th. During the past seven decades or so, it The seaside towns of Le Touquet and The 16th hole has received numerous nips and tucks Hardelot, almost always mentioned at Abbeville. but it has matured gracefully and, despite together, have attracted visitors to the the advent of modern equipment and Opal Coast for more than a century. The technology, still expects visiting golfers precise point in time golf replaced the to arrive with a solid ground game – casinos and the shopping as the main ready, willing and able to use the draw to the area is unclear, but it’s fair contours of the land to work the ball to say the stick and ball game has put close into the flags on its tiny greens. these two towns on the map. Harry Colt Wimereux may not be a links course in designed the original 18-hole La Mer For more information: the truest definition of the word, but (the seas) course at Le Touquet, while W: www.golfencotedopale.com with fast-running fairways cutting Tom Simpson, a British architect T: 33 (0)3 21 10 34 60 through imposing bluffs and dunes, and with an extensive French portfolio, the salty sea air wafting in on the wind, crafted Hardelot.

106 Golf World The Open Issue 2018 OPAL COAST

Water, water everywhere on the first hole at Dunkerque GC.

The picturesque Belle Dune feels like a hybrid of Hardelot’s Les has improved immeasurably. Pins and Les Dunes courses. Elsewhere along the Opal Coast, the aptly-named Belle Dune plays out over natural, rolling sandscape. The combination of pines and dunes make it feel like a hybrid of Hardelot’s Les Pins and Les Dunes, and it’s every bit as fun and engaging as the name suggests it should be. If your goal during a golf trip is to test the quality of your ball-striking, head straight to Golf d’Arras, located at the heart of the Scarpe Valley. The strategic La Vallée course hosted the Ladies French Open for a decade. Similarly demanding, AA St-Omer is also a European Tour venue. It plays through some 6,800 yards, combining undulating and pretty woodland terrain. At the other end of the scale, the Le Touquet has just ﬁnished the ﬁrst Hardelot’s Tom Simpson-designed Les 27-hole complex at Dunkerque Grand phase of a multi-year renovation to La Pins enjoyed an even more impressive Littoral delivers generous tees and Mer that has seen it painstakingly rise. The celebrated course, which cuts fairways, but plenty of ditches and water restored by Dutch architect and Colt through a pine forest yet is blessed with to keep you honest. It’s a course full of enthusiast Frank Pont, and his design sandy, linksland soil, was on the brink of character, playing through bastions, associate, Patrice Boisonnais. The tumbling out of the Top 100 but after curtains and artillery towers while original 1931 layout was known for its an overhaul by the same Pont and delivering splendid views over the towers open vistas of the rolling sandy links Boisonnais partnership, it shot up into and belfries of Flanders. terrain, but over time the original the 20s a couple of years ago. The And last, but not least, the two courses character of the course had been lost as encroachment of the forest and at Nampont Saint-Martin offer vastly vegetation was allowed to grow unchecked tree growth over several different experiences. The wide fairways unchecked. Fewer trees, wider fairways, decades had turned what was a hard, of Les Cygnes thread through reshaped greens, restored bunkers and fast-running links into a lush, soft, ornamental lakes and the chateau, while the addition of a spectacular new par 3 layout hemmed in by unchecked tree the Les Belvederes is woodland golf all helped La Mer rise an incredible 35 growth. Following an extensive tree the way. Abbeville, on the edge of the places in our 2017 Golf World Top 10 0 management programme, the course has Somme bay, combines valley and Courses Continental Europe ranking. shed its claustrophobic feel and the soil plateau holes. n

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The Open Issue 2018 Golf World 107 ADVERTORIAL FEATURE THE FABULOUS FORTRESS Chateau De Chailly mixes the modern and medieval in the heart of Burgundy.

The stunning medieval four-star Chateau overlooks the pristine parkland course.

n the heart of Burgundy, one was tastefully converted into a with an innovative spin and the of France’s most revered wine Renaissance chateau offering 45 STAY & fi nest Burgundy red wines. regions, lies Chateau De modern rooms and eight luxurious Alternatively, Le Rubillon serves Chailly, a stunning four-star suites in a traditional French PLAY more simple, quicker dishes. If it’s I Flights hotel and golf course set in the surrounding, while maintaining a drink you’d like then the Lions More than 18 picturesque countryside. the external fortress styling. The fl ights per day bar and wine cellar lets you taste Taking full advantage of its majority of the rooms are located operate direct some of the region’s celebrated natural surroundings in the heart in annexes overlooking the estate, from London wines, while the Sports Bar allows of the 185 acres of gently courtyard and golf course, while to Dole-Jura you to relax with a beer or undulating countryside, designers each suite benefi ts from stunning Airport. Flight cocktail, watch the sport in front Terry Sprecher and Géry Watine, exposed timber beams. time is less of an open fi re and enjoy a snack. than an hour a former French PGA Champion, When you’re ready to dine, the with a transfer In those moments when you were hired in 1990 to create a choice is as impressive as the of around 50 aren’t wining and dining, playing parkland course fi t for any golfi ng building. L’Armancon gourmet minutes. golf, taking advantage of the vast holiday. The duo have gone on to restaurant serves authentic cuisine practice facilities (you’ll fi nd a 20- design more than 50 courses in Stay bay grass range, short game area, 14 countries. One night’s wedge zone and large nine-hole The Long Drivers European B&B for two in a superior putting green), or having a lesson Tour competed here in April, but room, two in the ZONESAcademie there’s at 6,721 yards from the tips, and menu, three an array of relaxation options. with four teeing options, length is course dinner The all-new Spa Vinésime and not the course’s defence. Instead, in Bistro Le Charme d’Orient, located under the natural streams which come Rubillon, two stone vaults directly from the into play on three holes, large green fees or hotel, opened in March and a 90-minute lakes, century-old trees and the golf lesson for includes a six-place Jacuzzi, countless (often vast) bunkers are two. From hammam, sauna and massage what brilliantly protects this €433. and beauty institute. An immaculate par 73 layout. outdoor heated pool, fi tness The quartet of par 3s here are Contact studio, tennis court, and a particularly special, none more so T: +33 (0) 380 billiard room offer further 90 3030. than the 11th with its semi-island E: reservation stress-reducing options, while green sitting in front of the @chailly.com you can even take cookery stunning chateau hotel, a building W: www. classes, rent a bicycle, visit a local classifi ed as an historical monument. Stay in luxury and relax by the pool while chailly.com vineyard or arrange a hot air Formerly a medieval fortress, it trying some of the region’s superb wines. balloon ride.

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FP_GOLFWORL_3609117id3507268.pdf 04.06.2018 14:54 BRITTANYREGIONAL GUIDE & N Easily accessible and boasting no fewer than 50 courses , the regions of Normandy and

asily accessible via ferries to Devon, a region of grand, dramatic across the Strait of Dover. Alight on Saint-Malo and Roscoff and coastal landscapes, while the craggier, French soil and you’ll soon discover that regular flight routes into a harsher-edges and undiscovered feel of Brittany is blessed with three coastlines, a Enumber of airports, most British Brittany bear comparison with the variety of dramatic coastal landscapes, golfers’ first taste of French golf will landscape of Cornwall. Imagine both numerous fine pebbly beaches and plenty come on the Opal Coast. And with good blessed with a more clement climate than of very good golf. That golf takes second reason. All too often overshadowed by we enjoy, courtesy of the Gulf Stream, billing to those beaches for most visitors the capital an hour south and the and you have a compelling reason to is no bad things – the courses are usually sunshine of the French Riviera, France’s visit, play and explore. uncrowded and the green fees affordable. northern corner deserves deeper St Malo Hôtel, Golf & Country Club, exploration. In many ways, what you will Brittany Pléneuf-Val-André, Dinard Golf and find is oddly familiar. With its gently If you’re visiting the region by car – Golf des Ormes are four of the region’s undulating terrain rolling over lush highly advisable, given how convenient it standouts. The upmarket St Malo is a meadows, rural farmland and rolling is to do so – one of the easiest ways in is fine example of the new generation of coastal dunes, Normandy has the feel of via Calais, just over 90 minutes by ferry French golf clubs, a sprawling affair

WHERE TO STAY St Malo Golf Resort Set in a restored 18th century priory founded by a hermit named Gaultier, the St Malo Golf Resort’s hotel’s past life is evident in the open beams and stone walls. All 30 of its rooms are well equipped, very spacious and air-conditioned with their own balcony or terrace overlooking the golf course. It also features an outstanding restaurant in the l’Etang, which offers a wide range of local cuisine and panoramic views over the beautiful Mirloup Lake. www.golf-brittany.com/ hotel

110 Golf World The Open Issue 2018 BRITTANY & NORMANDY NORMANDY Brittany have plenty to offer the travelling golfer.

whose principal 18-hole parkland Founded by a group of British settlers east, Golf des Ormes is a pretty parkland Surcouf course covers 250 acres of land in 1887, making it France’s second-oldest course played out through rolling on the edge of the Mesnil forest and club, Dinard was designed by the woodland. It’s laid out over the grounds borders the picturesque Mirloup Lake. Scotsman Tom Dunn who was clearly of a private castle in the heart of a 370- Designed by Hubert Chesneau, architect inﬂuenced by the courses of his acre estate, and is every bit as enchanting of Ryder Cup venue Golf National near homeland. Oozing quality and as that sounds. Stay on site at the hotel, Paris, the 6,700-yard course was created sophistication, it delivers everything you apartment/studios, nature lodges, tree in 1986 but has the feel of an old would expect of a commanding links or raft houses and enjoy a variety of established estate. And like Le Golf – sandy turf, rolling fairways, classic pot family activities. National, Surcouf features heavily. bunkers, superb sea views, heather, gorse Nearby, Pléneuf-Val-André is more Complemented by a restored 18th and some small and well-guarded greens. spectacular clifftop than traditional century priory hotel (see box) and with What’s more, at less than 6,000 yards, links, and none more spectacular than on an excellent, nine-hole par-36 course, St it’s the perfect example of how a shorter the par-5 11th, one of Europe’s most Malo is the type of place you’ll want to course can still present a stiff test. spectacular holes, played out alongside enjoy at leisure, ideally overnight. By contrast, some 40 minutes south the cliffs. The challenge you’ll encounter

The sprawling St Malo resort course is set on the edge of the Mesnil forest and plays around the beautiful Mirloup Lake.

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The Open Issue 2018 Golf World 111 BRITTANY & NORMANDY

Golf de Pléneuf Val Dinard Golf Club is a André is clifftop golf at strong links that enjoys a its very best. stunning coastal location.

changes drastically when the wind whips red/white 18-hole combination mixes in off the Emerald Coast. HISTORY AND parkland and woodland, and also ARCHITECTURE delivers some magnificent coastal views. Normandy The 27-hole Golf Barrière Saint- Resist the overtures of Paris and drive While it would be remiss to overlook Julien is just a 15-minute drive away and west through Brittany and you’ll soon Monet’s waterlily pond at Giverny and the while it lacks a little of its big sister’s ancient Bayeux Tapestry in the town of find yourself in Normandy. If this is the same name, all roads historic lead to sophistication and character, it’s an your first port of call, it’s easy to enter the iconic medieval abbey of Mont-St- enjoyable heathland test of golf. The Normandy via the port of Cherbourg, Michel, one of the wonders of the true Valley is a demanding tree-lined layout via a ferry from Southampton or Western World. Set in the bay with plenty of water hazards to hold Portsmouth. Normandy is also just an where Normandy and Brittany merge, your attention, while the Woodland is a hour’s drive from the northern fringes of at the mouth of the Couesnon River, the scenic and altogether more comfortable the capital and an even shorter jaunt Mont is accessed by a causeway nine-holer that the less accomplished uncovered only at low tide. It attracts from the Loire Valley, making this a golf vast numbers of tourists for very good golfer will relish. destination that can be enjoyed and reason. From the rock-top abbey to the Continuing the heathland theme reached in several ways. Whichever route narrow alleys below, stepping onto the is Champ de Bataille, located 15 miles you take to get here, though, you will island is like stepping back into the from the Gallic town of Evreux. Set have a wide variety of top quality golf Middle Ages, albeit with some of the within the estate of the Chateau du courses from which to choose. region’s best museums, hotels, Champ de Bataille, the 6,600-yard par restaurants and shops squeezed into the In this region, famed for its camembert, equation. Only during the highest of tides 72 flows through avenues of mature apples and cider and the fresh seafood, is the island entirely surrounded by water, trees, simultaneously evoking thoughts of there are more than 40 courses spread as but be warned. The distance between Woburn and Wentworth. far afield as the Bay of Mont Saint- low and high tides can reach an Heading out towards Paris from Michel at the south-west corner to the astonishing 15m, with the waters Deauville, Golf d’Evreux is framed by Seine Valley to Pourville in the northeast. sweeping in at ferocious speeds, said to naturally rolling land and is noted for Many of the best courses are located in be as fast as a galloping horse. the year-round quality of its greens. the Deauville area, including the historic Other notable must-plays include the Golf Barrière de Deauville and its sister stunning 109-year-old Etretat, which course, the picturesque Golf Barrière starts inland before taking you on a Saint-Julien. Founded in 1929, spectacular five-hole stretch of cliffside Golf Barrière de Deauville is located just golf, the classic links at Granville in the a couple of minutes from the centre of bay of Mont Saint-Michel, Willie the trendy, well-to-do seaside town and Park’s Dieppe-Pourville, one of the enjoys three nine-hole loops (red, white oldest in France, Omaha Beach, and Golf and blue) crafted by Tom Simpson and de la Presqu’Ile du Cotentin on the edge Henry Cotton. The widely preferred of Cherbourg & Bessin Natural Park. n

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Etretat vue du ciel ©Altitude Drone Shutterstock.com

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FP_GOLFWORL_3609112id3485045.pdf 17.05.2018 11:30 THE SOUTH WEST AQUITAINE World renowned for the quality of its wines, France’s south-west corner is also home to many of Europe’s finest golf courses. The wise traveller knows to combine both.

THE INSIDER’S PASS

The Biarritz Destination Golf Pass allows visitors to play at up to eight courses while enjoying preferential green fees. Courses signed up include Arcangues, Biarritz le Phare, Chantaco, Hossegor, Ilbarritz, Makila Golf Club Bayonne Bassussarry, Moliets, Mont de Marsan, Pinsolle-Soustons and Seignosse. Green fees rise from €100 for two courses in the low season to €134 in the high. For details see biarritz- destination-golf.com SOUTH WEST

or Aquitaine, read the south- 100 Continental Europe courses can be before he was the big draw in golf west of France. And for the found in and around the Aquitaine area. course design he is today – Le Châteaux south-west of France, read the Even more impressively, those six are is one of the classiest venues on the F country’s largest wine-growing complemented by a strong supporting Continent, a heathland with echoes of region. Aquitaine is France’s largest cast that are all within easy reach. Walton Heath. It darts about an region full stop, a land comprising five Easy access from a variety of British expanse of prime terrain in no departments: the Gironde, the Landes airports, excellent transport links across discernible configuration, its holes are and the Pyrenees Atlantiques along the the region, accommodation to suit every named after Grand Cru wines and the coast and Lot et Garnonne and the budget and taste and weather far better link to the area’s most famous export Dordogne located inland. It’s a world than we typically enjoy, Aquitaine ticks continues in the large wine bottles that of magnificent forests, parks, lakes, ski every box for the travelling golfer. sit on the side of the fairway to signify slopes and the beachside resorts of 165m. Play here and you’ll be following Biarritz, Lacanau, Mimizan and Heathland heaven in the footsteps of greatness: when the Archachon, not to mention some of the Head to Bordeaux, to its northern European Tour stopped here for an country’s finest golf courses. Most outskirts and the region of Pian Médoc, event in 1999, the field featured Seve visitors to the region make straight for home to the exceptional resort of Golf and Jose Maria Olazabal – though both Bordeaux and raise a glass or two of du Médoc. Home to two courses in our were upstaged by eventual winner Retief Cabernet or Merlot, which is all well Top 100, Le Châteaux is the number 1 Goosen. By contrast, the Vignes course and good. But for golfers, the region is (GW’s no.14), but Vignes (ranked 52) offers more of a woodland-parkland home to several hidden gems and boasts certainly doesn’t suffer from being a setting but the same sense of escapism great variation and strength in depth. ‘second’ course. and tranquillity. No visit to the region Six of Golf World’s most recent Top Laid out by Bill Coore in 1989 – can be considered complete without a

WEB: www.privategolfkey.com EMAIL: [email protected] TEL: +33 (0) 1 4122 9611 SOUTH WEST

Château des Vigiers, home to world-class golf and a luxury hotel.

visit to Golf du Medoc and at least one at Moliets (ranked 87) weave between round on both courses. The neat hotel tall pines and over distinctive mounds, gives you every excuse to extend your GOLF AND GRAPES circumnavigating ‘proper’ bunkers stay – and sample those wines at leisure. For any golfer with even a passing along the way. The front nine is (www.golfdumedocresort.com) interest in fine wines, this corner of impressive enough but the real surprise France is a dream destination. All roads awaits after the turn, when genuine lead inevitably to Bordeaux, from where Three nines and four stars it’s easy to take one of the many linksland awaits at 13. It is as excellent Your next essential stop lies an hour to chateaux and vineyard tours. One of the as it is unexpected, with a huge bank of the east of Bordeaux at Château des best lies 45 minutes east of the city at pure white sand stretching up the left Vigiers, home to three Donald Steel Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage edged by a carpet of rolling, vibrant- loops of nine and a magnificent castle town. Known worldwide for its Grand Cru green fairway, the distinct colours revamped as a four-star hotel, another wine, it’s one of Bordeaux’s largest providing a jagged contrast. The funky, winemaking appellations and a more perfect base for an overnight stay. From picturesque alternative to the big city. To North Berwick-style green concludes there, set your sights south and towards gain a greater understanding of the wine- one of the finest holes in France, a the resort town of Biarritz and the making process, Private Golf Key offers single hole worth the journey alone. border of Basque Spain, where a number exceptional tours of the region’s finest The ocean-side holes that see you of excellent courses lie in wait. Here châteaux, gaining access you otherwise home are played out with the sound alone you’ll find four that grace Golf wouldn’t enjoy. of the Atlantic waves crashing in World’s Top 100. The woodland holes the background – and as good as

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116 Golf World The Open Issue 2018 adRocket

PAYS BASQUE PARIS LANDES BÉARN PYRÉNÉES BORDEAUX

Live your passion in the South West of France

From Biarritz to Moliets, from St-Jean de Luz to Pau, in the Basque Country, or in the Béarn and the Landes, 16 golf courses expand over a 100 kms. Is that not extraordinary ? And particularly because 2 of them are of historical interests. Pau Golf Club and Biarritz le Phare were the two courses designed in Continental Europe in 1856 and 1888. (JJVYKPUN[V`V\Y^PZOLZ`V\YWO`ZPJHSƒ[ULZZHUK`V\Y∏OHUKPJHWπ`V\TH`JOVVZLIL[^LLUHNVSMJV\YZL^P[O a sea or mountain view, a golf course in town or located by the forest, a softly hilly one or a challenging one and HUOPZ[VYPJHSVYHJV\U[Y`VUL@V\^PSSILZ\YL[VƒUK8\HSP[`([TVZWOLYLHUK+P]LYZP[`

This Golf Pass offers you the possibility to play on 10 golf courses of the region :

• Arcangues • Biarritz Le Phare • Chantaco • Hossegor • Ilbarritz • Makila Bayonne • Moliets • Mont de Marsan • Pinsolle • Seignosse

BOOK YOUR GREEN FEE ONLINE (for 2 to 8 rounds) - [email protected] Photo : ©Claude Rodriguez AND ENJOY PREFERRED RATES ALL YEAR ROUND WITH THE BIARRITZ DESTINATION GOLF PASS ! From 100 € for 2 rounds créa

www.biarritz-destination-golf.com [email protected] • [email protected] Biarritz Destination Golf : see destination golf news on Facebook

FP_GOLFWORL_3609111id3485041.pdf 01.06.2018 09:54 SOUTH WEST

The surprising and superb 13th and 15th holes at Moliets.

anything on the continent. bluegreen.com). Less than 10 minutes drama of previous courses but is still (www.golfmoliets.com) further south stands Hossegor, a leafy, worth a visit. (www.golfhossegor.com) English-style parkland that lacks the If you have time – and if you don’t, Beauty and the Beast make time – drive 45 minutes further An easy 25-minute drive south lies south towards Biarritz and you’ll reach another essential stop off, in the shape ESSENTIALS Chiberta, located in Anglet. Expect of Seignosse (ranked 51). Laid out by HOW TO GET THERE It’s far easier to fly another hybrid that combines sedate the enigmatic Robert Von Hagge and than drive, with loads of flights from the inland appeal with enough seaside surrounded by a small number of UK to both Biarritz and especially excitement to rank 73 in our Top 100. houses so costly they’d make even a Bordeaux, both ideally placed for all the In truth, the journey is worth making sheikh sweat, Seignosse is an absolute courses mentioned here. Flight time is for Anglet alone, a charming fishing must play, but it comes with a warning. around 90 minutes, so up then down. port with an upmarket marina and a Beautiful when the conditions are WHEN TO GO The south-west of France distinctly upmarket resort feel. Make benign, when Seignosse turns and the may not enjoy the outstanding climate of time to stay in the chic, four-star Hotel wind whips in off the Bay of Biscay, she the south east, but between May and du Chiberta, from where you can can feel like a more exacting September you’ll be unlucky to get explore any of the 16 courses Carnoustie. Expect a relentless anything other than glorious surrounding Biarritz – including the sunshine. Better still, with several of the examination of your game and mind courses mentioned here built on sandy historic Golf de Biarritz le Phare, right among pine trees and around water soil, Aquitaine is also a very decent in the heart of the town – or just soak hazards. Expect sweaty palms and short-haul winter option. up the sunshine and wish you didn’t nervous excitement. (www.seignosse. ever have to go home. n

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hotel**** spa restaurants

châteaux course vignes course

Bill Coore (USA) - 1989 Rod Whitman (CAN) - 1991

www.golfdumedocresort.com

CONTINENTALENGLAND’S EUROPE’S TOP 100 CONTINENTALENGLAND’S EUROPE’S COURSESCOURSES 2018 2015 GOLF DU MEDOC (CHATEAUX) TOP 100 No.14 COURSESCOURSES 2018 2015 France's GOLF DU MEDOC ( VIGNES) Best Golf Course No.5 2

training center Situated among the vineyards of the wine tasting Bernard Pascassio MÈdoc between Bordeaux and the spectacular Atlantic coast beaches, Golf du Medocís 36-hole resort offers DFFHVV WR VRPH RI WKH ˋQHVW JROI DQG wine tours in south-west France. Only 20 minutes from Bordeaux Merignac international airport, the resortís elegant hotel is merely yards from the 1st tee of both highlyregarded courses. For golf, gastronomy and wine tasting, a visit to Golf du Medoc Resort on the wine route is a must.

TOP 100 GOLF COURSES IN CONTINENTAL EUROPE 2018

Chemin de Courmateau - 33290 Le Pian MÈdoc T. 33 (0)5 56 70 31 31 - F. 33(0)5 56 70 78 78 [email protected]

FP_GOLFWORL_3609115id3505567.pdf 01.06.2018 11:27 A RESORT FIT FOR ROYALTY Set against the backdrop of the Alps and overlooking the southern shore of Lake Geneva lies the Evian Resort – a tranquil retreat fit for a king.

STAY & PLAY estled among almost balconies that make it look like Flights The royals, celebrities and 50 acres of lush, green a grand old steamship – the aptly- Fly direct to aristocrats used to come for the parkland and perched named hotel has, for more than Geneva spa, the scenery, the service and on a secluded crown 100 years, been one of Europe’s International the unbridled luxury, but just as N from more overlooking the southern French most féted destinations. many people today come for than 20 UK shore of Lake Geneva, the five-star With 11 bars and restaurants, airports in one the golf. The Evian Resort Golf Hôtel Royal Palace is an opulent, another luxury hotel – the four- hour and 45 Club has hosted The Evian decadent and tranquil retreat. star Hotel Ermitage – and a minutes. Championship – the fifth major In 1909, the Evian mineral casino among the extensive array in the women’s game – since 2013 water company commissioned of leisure facilities, it was no great Hotel and the course itself has recently renowned French architect surprise that the Evian Resort Two nights’ been upgraded to make it more B&B for two at Jean-Albert Hébrard to create a was crowned France’s Leading Hôtel Royal challenging for the world’s best hotel that would reflect the style Resort at the 2017 World Travel and a round of golfers with the addition of 77 and prestige of its future clientele. Awards. golf each costs bunkers and 176 new trees. King Edward VII had promised The famous spa town of from €764. The 18-hole course is one of to be one of the hotel’s first guests, Evians-les-Bains is just a brisk the oldest in France. Scented by although he sadly passed away walk downhill, although during Contact fuchsias, geraniums and century- T: +33 (0)4 50 before he could enjoy the suite the summer a free cable car-style 26 9595. old woodland, it snakes in and custom built for him. railway can shuttle guests back W: evian around towering pines, mountain Instantly recognisable by the and forth between the town and resort.com tops and sun-kissed terraces. elegant creme façade and brown the resort. At just under 6,500 yards off

France_ Evian_nw 2.indd 2 6/8/18 12:25 PM ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

FIRST-CLASS INSTRUCTION IN A FIVE-STAR SETTING Leading coach David Leadbetter has recently opened a new academy at the Evian Resort. David Leadbetter has bays and the very enjoyed a long- latest game- standing relationship improvement with the Evian Resort. technologies, In addition to working including Trackman, with many leading Boditrak, SAM LPGA Tour players, PuttLab, MySwing, Leadbetter guided and a WellPutt indoor the tips, length isn’t this par 71’s Suzann Pettersen and putting green. The of the Chablais Alps, providing Lydia Ko to their new academy is biggest defence. Negotiating the an imposing and eye-catching victories at the highly managed by the treacherous array of slopes on and backdrop. prestigious Evian resort’s head off the greens is the real secret to By the time you reach the Championship – one professional, Jean- good scoring. Courtesy of its closing four holes, dubbed the of the fi ve majors in Philippe Serres, who hillside topography, almost every ‘Evian Puzzle’, your course the women’s game. has spent 12 years fairway cambers towards water, management, patience and green- Now with the learning David’s sand or rough, while the newly- reading will have been fully tested. launch of The teaching principles. enlarged greens are characterised Over these fi nal holes, your ball Leadbetter Academy At this year’s Evian by deceptive undulations and will inevitably fl irt with more at Evian Resort’s Championship in beautiful training September, David dramatic tier changes. water. The good news is that you course, players of all Leadbetter will open a Your attention is drawn towards can mull over your mistakes in the abilities – from luxury suite bearing these changes in elevation as early Anglo-Saxon clubhouse, and enjoy beginners to aspiring his name at the Hôtel as the 2nd hole. The short par-3 some local delicacies on the terrace professionals – will be Royal. Guests will fi nd tumbles downhill to a putting overlooking the 18th green and able to benefi t from some of his personal surface divided into two sections the lake beyond. the world’s most items, as well as by a large knoll. The next par 3 – famous coach’s key tailored tips and the club’s signature hole – arrives teaching philosophies. services, including on the 5th and demands a 100- The new facility off ers golf lessons available yard carry over two lakes with covered and outdoor at the hotel itself. Dent d’Oche, the highest summit

The Open Issue 2018 Golf World 3 THEREGIONAL GUIDE SOUTH Europe’s most cultivated and sun-kissed playground is also home to more than 150 golf courses, including the No.1 ranked resort in our Golf World Top-100.

hile it’s fair to say that than the rest of the nation, the prime golf Daube (a beef stew) and the pièce de many of France’s better- season in the south stretches from late résistance, tapenade – an olive dip made known courses can be April until early October. Then there’s of black olives, capers, anchovies, garlic Wfound in and around the cuisine. In this part of the world, the and olive oil that is usually served with Paris – or even further north – southern thrill of the golf is comfortably matched croutons or breadsticks. France has enough top quality courses by the sumptuous post-round dining And finally, there’s the choice. Boasting and fringe benefits to attract even the options. You can’t leave Provence without well over 150 courses, a single visit will most discerning golfer. For a start, there’s sampling Bouillabaisse (a fish soup/ only scratch the surface of all the region the climate. Blessed with more sunshine stew), pastis (aniseed flavoured liqueur), has to offer. To make a visit to the south

Combining five-star accommodation with Michelin Star dining and incredible golf, Terre Blanche is the star attraction in the south of France.

122 Golf World The Open Issue 2018 SOUTH more manageable, our advice is to divide unspoiled lush nature, the resort woodland to ravines to lakes and streams it into three distinct regions: Provence- combines five-star accommodation with and, of course, the famous chateau itself. Alpes-Cote d’Azur; Rhône Alpes; and Michelin-star dining and world-class Terre Blanche may be the jewel in the Midi Pyrénées Languedoc-Roussillon. golf. The resort is part of the prestigious crown of the region, but it’s by no means European Tour Properties portfolio, the only option. In fact, there are some Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur which gives it access to a wide range of 63 other courses in Provence-Alpes-Cote If you’re a frequent reader of Golf World, consultancy services from expert d’Azur. Take Dolce Fregate, where you’ll know there are significant agronomists. As a result, it’s always superb Provencal cuisine and wines can differences between the golf courses immaculately maintained. “Terre be savoured alongside scintillating featured in our Top-100 Courses Blanche is like an oasis to me,” says its Mediterranean views, superb golf courses ranking and those featured in our Top- German owner Dietmar Hopp. “An and four-star accommodation. 100 Resorts ranking. In many instances, oasis which is soothing to the soul.” While in the region it would be folly a great resort golf course won’t cut it in The resort boasts two Dave Thomas- not to visit Pont Royal in Mallemort. our rankings that focus solely on the designed championship courses, both of Seve Ballesteros’ only design in France quality of the golf course. There are which blend seamlessly into the existing has lost its way on several occasions exceptions to the rule, of course, and it landscape. The Chateau is the stiffer during the past couple of decades, but just so happens that one of them can be challenge and, as a result, is the choice the resort is in the early stages of an found in the south-east corner of France. for hosting professional events, while the impressive revamp that will see a seven- Terre Blanche is No.1 in our Top 100 Le Riou course is largely reserved for figure sum invested into the golf course, Resorts Contintental Europe ranking. Its members and guests. Aside from the practice facilities and clubhouse. flagship course, the Chateau, is also excellent variety of holes, the Chateau is The major attraction at Pont Royal is ranked 14th in our Top 100 Courses characterised by constantly changing the views. The course looks out over the Continental Europe ranking. Nestled in vistas – from mountains to valleys to Alpilles and Luberon, Durance Valley

WEB: www.privategolfkey.com EMAIL: [email protected] TEL: +33 (0) 1 4122 9611

The Open Issue 2018 Golf World 123 SOUTH

The 2nd hole at Pont Royal is a delightful downhill par 3 over water.

and the mountains of Trévaresse. As you experience them. Tignes, Avoriaz, We say ‘for now’ because the French would expect from a Seve design there Meribel, Courchevel, Les Gets, Three government is still debating the name are plenty of do-or-die options and more Valleys and Chamonix double up as ski following a restructuring of France’s than the occasional quirky hole – resorts in the winter and golf resorts in regions a few years ago. In this region, including the first, which slops viciously the summer. The aprés ski seamlessly popular with holidaymakers and expats from left to right and has a large tree in becomes aprés golf in the region’s entranced by the warm climate, the middle of the fairway. The greens are fabulous bars and restaurants. picturesque towns and villages, quick and true, and several holes could undulating countryside, chateaux, stake a claim to being the resort’s Midi Pyrénées Languedoc-Roussillon vineyards and Mediterranean beaches, signature. Stay on-site at the Moulin de For now, the area of land between the the countryside varies from the Pyrénées Vernegues hotel, not just for its two- Atlantic and the Mediterranean in the mountains, beaches, the marshy minute cart ride to the tee, but for the southwest corner of France is known as Camargue and the Cévennes mountains. exquisite cuisine, spa and secluded pool. Midi Pyrénées Languedoc-Roussillon. The region is also home to almost 40 courses, the most northerly of which is Rhône-Alpes Souillac. Carved out of an oak forest, its This region is home to Evian and its PAY A VISIT TO tight fairways and elevated greens fabulous resort, built to attract Europe’s CARCASSONNE demand pinpoint accuracy from tee to travelling elite more than 100 years ago. The second-most visited location in green. To the south, Golf Club de The Evian Resort Golf Club annually France after Paris, Carcassonne is about Toulouse is one of the premier golf hosts the final major of the ladies’ season. 50 miles east of Toulouse in attractions boasting city and mountain Overlooking the shores of Lake Geneva the Aude plain between historic trade views. In the south of the Massif Central, and at the foot of the Alps, the course is routes linking the Atlantic to Domaine de Mezeyrac offers golf in a characterised by sloping fairways, the Mediterranean and the Massif 100-year-old oak forest, an on-site hotel Central to the Pyrénées. Perched on a dramatic elevation changes and multi- rocky hilltop and jammed with a chaotic and cottages. On the Mediterranean tiered greens. Off the course, there are array of battlements and turrets, the coast, Robert Trent Jones Snr’s La three impressive accommodation options fortified city looks like something out of a Grande Motte is within walking distance – the exquisite five-star Royal Hotel, the children’s storybook. It has been a of the beaches of the seaside resort that four-star Ermitage and a lavish bed-and- UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997. bears the same name, while Cap d’Agde breakfast in the centre of the academy, is an excellent Ron Fream design with its Le Manoir du Golf. very own Amen Corner. The remainder of the Rhone-Alpes On the Catalan coast near Perpignan, collection is headlined by the Lyon area, Saint Cyprien resort boasts two courses, home to a trio of outstanding courses in while in the Pyrenees, Domaine de Lyon GC, Gouverneur and Salvagny. If Falgos has an idyllic south-facing setting you plan on venturing further afield, it’s near the Spanish border. Nîmes worth noting that the courses become Campagne, Nîmes Vacquerolles and more sparsely located and, therefore, Golf de Carcassonne complete the require more careful planning to selection of high-quality courses. n

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GOLF STAY IN NÎMES, GOLF ESCAPE GOLF & SPA BREAK, DOMAINE DE FALGOS, AT VACQUEROLLES IN CARCASSONNE, AT MONTPELLIER MASSANE BETWEEN SEA & PYRENEES GOLF COURSE AT LE DOMAINE D’AURIAC RESORT MOUNTAINS Summer off er: unlimited golf. A one night stay for two at 3 night-stay for 2 in a Camargue A 3 days / 2 nights stay “golf Accommodation on a double room the Domaine in a Superior Room room including breakfast, & spa” at Le Domaine de Falgos basis for a 2 nights stay minimum. including a dinner at the gastronomic 3 greenfees 18-holes on Massane in the Pyrenees. Starting from 105 € / person / day. restaurant and green fee. golf course and 2h Spa access for 2. Double room & half board basis + unlimited access to the golf Valid from July to September. Starting from 560 € for 2 / extras and Starting from 400 € / person. and the spa. local taxes on supplement. Valid until 31st December 2018 Tel: +33(0)4 66 233 333 www.golf-nimes.com Valid every day except feast days and (subject to availability). Starting from 332 € / person. public holidays. Tel : +33(0)4 67 87 87 87 Tel: +33 (0)4 68 39 51 42 Tel: +33(0)4 68 25 72 22 www.massane.com www.falgos.com www.domaine-d-auriac.com

Project co-financed by the European Union. CerclePrestigeSudDeFrance Europe is investing through the European Regional Development www.tourisme-occitanie.com/cercle-prestige www.sudfrancegolf.com Fund.

AP_PRESTIGE_2018_210x297_GOLF WORLD MAGAZINE.indd 1 23/04/2018 12:40 FP_GOLFWORL_APPRESTIGEid3484831.pdf 15.05.2018 12:41 ADVERTORIAL FEATURE A PARADISE IN PROVENCE Pont Royal blends golf, gastronomy, wine and relaxation in one luxurious resort.

itting in the foothills of the have already delivered a new mountain views, the dog-leg left Alps in the very heart of clubhouse, irrigation system, two- STAY & 7th almost dares you to carry a SProvence, it is no surprise tier driving range, six-hole golf PLAY drive over a huge valley towards a that the great Seve Ballesteros course, Pont Royal Academy and a narrow strip of fairway for a short, chose this stunning piece of land (David) Leadbetter Golf Academy The resort downhill approach into a slick Pont Royal to design his only French course. based at the 37-acre Durance includes a green with little room for error. What the Spanish great created Training Centre. Plans to extend Provencal- You could always opt for a safe in the small market town of the short course to nine full holes style village, iron off the tee, but you’d know Mallemort some 26 years ago is a have already been approved, while wooded Seve would be disappointed. par 72 masterpiece that reflects the the clubhouse will be extended areas, lakes, A devilishly difficult par 4, and way he saw and played the game. with new changing rooms, pro pools, bars, picturesque par 5 flanked by some restaurants, Drama, fun and a strategic test shop and terraces. A fitness centre and tourist of the many apartments and villas await as you weave through just and spa, to complement existing information. that make up the resort village under 7,000 yards of pine, plateaus physio facilities, is also planned. follow, building seamlessly and Provencal countryside flanked Exciting times lie ahead, just as Stay towards the signature par-3 11th – by Luberon and Alpilles mountains. they do on the 1st tee – a short, The four-star a 215-yard shot across a rocky It’s a combination that has downhill dog-leg hole flanked by Moulin de valley to a raised green. Vernègues, or attracted the Challenge Tour for out of bounds, trees and with a apartments, Seve, the master of drama, sets its inaugural Open de Provence by huge pine in the middle of the house and up a thrilling close with a narrow, Hopps Group in September, an fairway ahead of a shallow green. villas within the undulating par 4 leading to the event that will return until 2021. A testing par 3 over water on-site Pierre final three. The short par-4 16th’s That news has seen Pont Royal’s follows, taking you past the & Vacances green is surrounded by trees and members, who have owned the resort’s four-star, and classically village. sand, before the 17th’s fairway club since 2001, announce a seven- Provencal 102-room Moulin de tries desperately to pull your ball Getting there figure investment plan to establish Vernègues hotel and spa. It leads Fly direct to left and leave one of the course’s the resort as Provence’s premier to a truly memorable stretch Marseille from toughest greens blocked out. The destination over the next five years. starring a par 4 that almost sings more than 20 par-5 18th is a classic finale. An Since taking over, the members Seve’s name. Flanked by stunning UK airports in elevated tee shot to a fairway that around two dog-legs left and is flanked by hours. Transfer trouble leaves an approach into a approx 30 mins. long, narrow green with water Contact looming left and sand right. T: +33 (0) 490 But whatever happens you can 57 4079 guarantee the array of local wines, E: info@golf- beers and produce awaiting you in pontroyal. the adjacent clubhouse, hotel and com W: golf- restaurants will pontroyal. help you Pont Royal’s stunning Shot shaping and strategy conditioning and views. is a must to score well. com celebrate... or forget.

The Open Issue 2018 Golf World 2 adRocket

EUROPEAN GOLF RESORTS TOP 100 2017 No.1

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V3 GOLF WORLD suppl France-2017.indd 1 05/05/2017 09:56:03 FP_GOLFWORL_GOLFWORLDsid3489674.pdf 18.05.2018 09:17 TOP 100 COURSES FINDING FRANCE’S STARS Where you will locate the 16 courses in Golf WorldÕs 2017 Top 100 Courses Continental Europe and the 16 that were in the ‘Next 100’. EUROPE’S 1. Morfontaine (1) 12. Golf du Medoc (Vignes) (52) 22. Evian (Next 100) 2. Les Bordes, France (3) 13. Sperone (57) 23. Granville (Next 100) CLEAR NO.1 France had 16 entries in the Top 3. Fontainebleau, France (6) 14. Chiberta (73) 24. Hossegor (Next 100) 100 – one more than mainland 4. Chantilly, France (11) 15. Saint Emillionais (77) 25. Joyenval (Marly) (Next 100) 5. Golf du Medoc (Châteaux) (14) 16. Moliets (87) 26. Kempferhof (Next 100) Spain and two ahead of 6. Terre Blanche (Chateau) (15) ------27. Les Aisses (Next 100) Portugal. It had seven of the 7. Saint Germain (19) 17. Barbaroux (Next 100) 28. Pleneuf-val-Andre (Next 100) top 20; the Netherlands 8. Hardelot (Les Pins) (24) 18. Belle Dune (Next 100) 29. Saint Endreol (Next 100) was next with four. 9. Le Touquet (La Mer) (31) 19. Cannes Mougins (Next 100) 30. St Nom La Breteche (Red) (Next 100) 10. Le Golf National (32) 20. Chantaco (Next 100) 31. Terre Blanche (Le Riou) (Next 100) 11. Seignosse (51) 21. Chantilly (Longeres) (Next 100) 32. Chateau de Taulane (Next 100) 9 8 18 P DENOTES GOLF PASS IN THIS AREA P P 1 23 P 4 28 P 21

7 26 25 30 P P 3 10

P 2 27 P 22

12 5 15

14 11 P P 16 24 P 32 P 20 29 P 17 6 31 19 13

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FP_GOLFWORL_3609116id3507256.pdf 04.06.2018 14:49