The Ryder Cup will soon reach the tee at the Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines National Golf Course, its first ever visit to France. Have you got 5 minutes? That’s all you need to discover a destination where golf is more than a hobby: it’s pure joy, and a way of life.
Welcome to the European pioneer…
French golfing history dates back to 1856, with the opening of Pau golf course. It was not only the first golf course in France, but the first golf course in mainland Europe. It was born thanks to the influence of English golfers, who never need an excuse to savour the French art de vivre.
Golf’s popularity growing in France
The French Golf Federation is the 7th biggest sports federation in France. Just behind rugby and, defying all expectations, just ahead of pétanque! It’s really popular, then. And it’s showing no signs of stopping…
In France, golf is first and foremost about leisure…
In 1907, Arnaud Massy won the British Open, and is still the only French person to have won that major tournament to this day. But the French aren’t losing any sleep. If you ask them why they took up golf, 93% say “to relax”.
A bespokegolfing experience
What is your dream landscape? In France, you’re spoilt for choice. Purists with a taste for bunkers will love golf links like Wimereux or Dinard Golf Club. Then there’s Evian, which every year hosts the Evian Championship, an iconic women’s tournament. In the city, by the sea, or in the mountains, there’s no shortage of meticulously manicured courses within an hour of wherever you are. Even in the Basque Country! Since 1928, Saint-Jean-de-Luz has been the “birthplace” of the sport in the region: Chantaco Golf Course.
Golf and maybe more…
While golfers from the four corners of the globe make the trip to play on our greens, they also do so for the little extras… Golf and fine dining around Bordeaux or in the Basque Country. Golf and the dolce vita in Provence or on the Côte d’Azur. Golf and culture in the Loire Valley or around Paris. Golf and nature in Brittany or the Alps…
Grab your clubs and go play!
The Ryder Cup is the sporting event with the third widest media coverage in the world, after the Football World Cup and the Olympic Games. This year, we are expecting up to 80,000 spectators and a thrilling atmosphere at the prestigious Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines National Golf Course, near Paris.** Why not come for a round in France before everyone’s doing it?
