Reasons to visit France

It’s no secret that France is one of Europe’s most alluring golf destinations. From the sun-drenched fairways of the south to the rolling countryside of Normandy and the prestigious layouts surrounding Paris, the country boasts an impressive collection of world-class courses that continue to attract golfers year after year.

Renowned for its cuisine, culture and timeless charm, the country invites visitors to indulge both on and off the course. Think vineyard-covered hills, historic châteaux and bustling market towns, all complemented by a culinary scene that is second to none.

Put simply, France is a truly outstanding golf holiday destination throughout the year, so follow along below as we list 10 reasons why you should book a golf trip to France.

Why it matters: Travelling to France is effortless, with a range of transport options from the UK including short-haul flights, Eurostar services and ferry crossings. Once there, excellent road and rail networks make it easy to reach top golf regions.

Quick facts:

• Direct flights to Paris, Nice, Bordeaux and more.
• Eurostar from London to Paris in just over 2 hours.
• LeShuttle provides a quick and convenient route from Folkestone to Calais
• Well-connected motorways and rail links across the country.

Travel tip: Consider combining rail travel with car hire for maximum flexibility when exploring multiple golf regions.

Why play here? France is home to an outstanding collection of golf courses, ranging from historic parkland layouts to dramatic coastal designs and world-class resort venues. With such variety on offer, golfers can experience everything from Ryder Cup-hosting fairways to hidden gems set among vineyards, forests and rolling countryside.

Some of our favourite golf courses in France include:

• Le Golf National (Albatros Course) – one of Europe’s most iconic layouts, host of the Olympics and the 2018 Ryder Cup, this challenging, stadium-style course near Paris is a must-play for any serious golfer.
• Golf du Touquet (La Mer Course) – Ranked 59th in Europe by Top 100 Golf Courses, this is a true links classic in northern France, offering fast-running fairways, natural dunes and a genuine test in coastal conditions.
• Golf d’Hardelot (Les Pins Course) – set within a stunning pine forest, this beautifully designed course combines strategic play with immaculate surroundings.
• Terre Blanche Golf Resort (Le Château Course) – Ranked 7th in France by Top 100 Golf Courses, this is a world-class layout in the south of France, known for its pristine conditioning and scenic beauty.
• Cabot Bordeaux (Les Châteaux Course) – a standout inland links-style course that brings a unique and modern golfing experience to the Bordeaux region.

Whether you are looking to take on iconic layouts steeped in history or enjoy relaxed resort golf in stunning surroundings, France offers something to suit every level of golfer.

France offers a superb range of resorts and hotels, from elegant countryside retreats to coastal hideaways and golf-focused properties. Many are set alongside or within golf courses, making it easy to step from your accommodation straight onto the fairways while enjoying first-class facilities and service.

Here are some of our favourite resorts and hotels:

• Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort – Named France's best golf hotel in 2014, 2019 and 2023 at the World Golf Awards. This is a luxury retreat in the south of France, offering refined accommodation, exceptional facilities and direct access to two outstanding on-site courses.
• Le Touquet Golf Resort – A popular stay-and-play destination in northern France, combining multiple on-site courses with a selection of nearby hotels and a lively seaside atmosphere.
• Hotel Barrière L’Hôtel du Golf Deauville – Overlooking the fairways in Normandy, this stylish hotel provides a classic French golf escape with easy access to some of the region’s best courses.
• Domaine de la Bretesche Golf & Spa – A picturesque countryside resort in the Loire Valley, set around a historic château and offering a peaceful setting alongside an excellent golf course.
• Cabot Bordeaux – A standout golf resort in southwest France, featuring two acclaimed golf courses, peaceful surroundings and an ideal base for exploring the Bordeaux wine region.

Whether you are planning a luxury getaway, a relaxed coastal break or a dedicated golf trip, France delivers a wide variety of stays to suit every preference.

Travel tip: Opt for on-site accommodation at golf resorts to make the most of early tee times and convenient access to practice facilities.

France benefits from a varied but highly playable climate, with each region offering excellent conditions at different times of year. From warm southern sunshine to crisp, scenic rounds in the north, it is a destination that can be enjoyed across multiple seasons.

Conditions to expect:

• Mild springs and autumns provide some of the best golfing weather, with comfortable temperatures and excellent course conditions.
• Summer brings warmer days, particularly in the south, while coastal regions benefit from refreshing sea breezes.
• Winters are cooler, especially in northern regions, but still offer playable conditions and quieter courses.

France offers an exceptional mix of scenic coastlines and rolling countryside, giving golfers the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration beyond the fairways. From dramatic sea views to peaceful rural landscapes, the variety here is hard to match.

Along the coast, you will find everything from the wide, sandy beaches of northern France to the rugged cliffs of Normandy and the glamorous shores of the Côte d’Azur. The Atlantic coast around regions like Biarritz and Bordeaux is known for its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere, while the Mediterranean delivers crystal-clear waters and sun-soaked settings ideal for unwinding after a round.

Venture inland and a different kind of beauty unfolds. France’s countryside is dotted with vineyards, forests and gently rolling hills, alongside charming villages, historic châteaux and quiet country roads. Regions such as the Loire Valley and parts of Normandy offer a slower pace, where scenic surroundings and rich heritage create a truly relaxing escape.

Golf is only part of the experience in France. Beyond the fairways, the country is filled with some of Europe’s most beautiful towns and cities, each offering its own blend of history, culture and character. From elegant seaside resorts to storybook villages and historic centres, there is always something to explore.

Historic towns and old quarters:

• Deauville and Trouville – Classic Normandy seaside towns known for their elegant architecture, promenade walks and lively atmosphere, combining coastal charm with a rich cultural heritage.
• Saint-Émilion – A picturesque village in the Bordeaux region, famed for its vineyards, medieval streets and historic monuments set among rolling wine country.
• Chantilly – Located just outside Paris, this refined town is steeped in history, home to the stunning Château de Chantilly and surrounded by beautiful parkland.
• Dinard and Saint-Malo – On the Brittany coast, these towns offer a mix of historic charm and coastal beauty, with Saint-Malo’s walled city and Dinard’s Belle Époque villas providing a memorable setting.

Whether you are wandering cobbled streets, exploring historic landmarks or enjoying local cafés and markets, France’s towns add a rich cultural dimension to any golf holiday.

Travel tip: Take time to explore beyond your resort, as many of France’s most charming towns are just a short drive from its top golf courses.

France is steeped in history, and no golf trip is complete without exploring its remarkable castles, grand cathedrals and cultural landmarks. From medieval fortresses to ornate religious buildings, these sites offer a fascinating insight into the country’s rich and layered past.

The Loire Valley, in particular, is famed for its fairytale châteaux and elegant architecture, making it one of the most iconic regions to experience French heritage. Elsewhere across the country, you will find impressive cathedrals, historic estates and beautifully preserved landmarks that add depth to any golf getaway.

Some of France’s must-see cultural attractions:

• Château de Chambord – one of the most recognisable castles in the Loire Valley, celebrated for its striking Renaissance design and vast surrounding parkland.
• Château de Chenonceau – an elegant Loire Valley château set over the River Cher, known for its unique architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens.
• Chartres Cathedral – a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, renowned for its stunning stained glass and detailed craftsmanship.
• Château de Chantilly – located near Paris, this grand estate combines historic interiors, extensive gardens and one of France’s most impressive art collections.

Whether you are exploring the châteaux of the Loire Valley or discovering historic landmarks across the country, France offers a cultural experience that perfectly complements its exceptional golf.

French cuisine is celebrated across the globe, offering something for every taste with a strong focus on fresh, regional ingredients and time-honoured techniques. In fact, French gastronomy is recognised by UNESCO as part of the world’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, highlighting its cultural importance and enduring influence.

Each region brings its own specialities, from rich, comforting dishes in the countryside to lighter, Mediterranean flavours in the south. Coastal areas serve up exceptional seafood, while inland regions are known for fine meats, cheeses and world-class wines, creating a dining experience that is as varied as it is memorable. Whether you are enjoying a simple post-round meal or an indulgent evening of fine dining, the country’s culinary scene is a true highlight of any golf holiday.

Travel tip: Take the opportunity to explore local specialities in each region you visit, as French cuisine varies significantly and is best experienced close to its source.

When the sun sets, France offers a vibrant yet refined evening scene, with something to suit every style. From chic bars and bustling city centres to elegant seaside dining and relaxed countryside evenings, the atmosphere is as varied as the regions themselves.

In cities like Paris, Bordeaux and Nice, you will find a mix of stylish cocktail bars, wine lounges and late-night venues, alongside a wealth of exceptional restaurants ranging from traditional bistros to Michelin-starred dining. Coastal destinations such as the Côte d’Azur and Biarritz bring a more glamorous feel, with beachfront bars and lively promenades creating the perfect setting for an evening out.

For those seeking a quieter pace, France also excels in laid-back evenings. Think candlelit dinners in charming village restaurants, local wine enjoyed on a terrace, or a peaceful stroll through a historic town after a day on the course.

Part of France’s enduring appeal lies in its deep-rooted traditions and strong sense of cultural identity. Across the country, you will find regions that have carefully preserved their heritage, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into local life alongside world-famous landmarks and experiences.

From bustling markets and historic museums to centuries-old architecture and artisan crafts, French culture is woven into everyday life. Each region has its own distinct character, whether it is the wine traditions of Bordeaux, the artistic heritage of Paris or the coastal influences found in Normandy and Brittany.

Traditional culture remains vibrant, from local festivals and regional cuisine to music, art and time-honoured customs passed down through generations. Whether you are exploring a charming village, visiting a historic site or simply enjoying the atmosphere of a local café, there is a strong sense of history and identity at every turn.

Best time to visit: France offers excellent golf conditions throughout much of the year, with different regions peaking at different times. The most popular months for golf are April to June and September to October, when temperatures are mild, courses are in great condition and crowds are manageable.

Summer brings warmer weather, particularly in the south, making early morning or late afternoon rounds ideal. Northern France and Le Touquet are also excellent in summer, offering pleasant temperatures and fantastic playing conditions.

While these areas can be busy during peak season, midweek tee times and accommodation are often still readily available. In contrast, spring and autumn in regions like Normandy and northern France provide crisp, enjoyable conditions, while winter can still offer playable days, especially in milder areas.

Booking tips:

• Book tee times in advance: Popular courses, particularly around Paris and coastal resorts, can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
• Consider regional combinations: France’s variety means you can easily combine destinations such as Paris and Normandy or Bordeaux and the south for a more diverse trip.
• Plan around travel: With excellent rail and road links, it is worth mapping out your itinerary in advance to make the most of your time.

Q: Is France good for a golf holiday? A: Absolutely. France offers a fantastic mix of high-quality courses, varied landscapes, rich culture and outstanding food, making it a well-rounded golf destination.

Q: Can you play golf year-round in France? A: Yes, although conditions vary by region. The south enjoys a longer season with milder winters, while spring and autumn are ideal in northern regions.

Q: Which airport should I fly into? A: France has several convenient gateways including Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Nice (NCE), Bordeaux (BOD) and Toulouse (TLS), depending on your chosen region.

Q: Is France suitable for all skill levels? A: Yes. The country offers a wide range of courses, from relaxed resort layouts to more challenging designs, with options to suit all abilities.

A golf holiday in France offers far more than just great courses. From stunning coastlines and rolling countryside to world-class cuisine, historic towns and iconic landmarks, it delivers a rich and varied travel experience. With diverse regions to explore and excellent accessibility from the UK, France remains one of Europe’s most rewarding and enjoyable golf destinations.