Weekend golf escape to La Baule: A hidden gem on France’s Atlantic Coast

If you're looking for a golf holiday to France that blends luxury, stunning seaside views, and French charm, look no further than La Baule. Tucked just south of Brittany in the Loire Valley, this is a great alternative to Le Touquet that offers more reliable weather and has a refreshing change of pace.

Our recent FAM trip to Hôtel Barrière L’Hermitage La Baule proved just how perfect this destination is for a weekend golf retreat - and it's just over an hours flight from the UK.

Over the course of three days, we discovered the exceptional golf, local flavours, and five-star hospitality.

Our weekend began with a smooth flight from Gatwick to Nantes. Within minutes of landing, we were greeted with our private transfer to La Baule. Even though we hit rush hour, the journey was a visual treat, crossing the scenic Pont de Saint-Nazaire bridge and catching glimpses of the coastline.

Alternative flights from the key UK airports are also available, including Manchester (1.5hrs) and Edinburgh (2hrs). Or, for those preferring a slower pace, ferry crossings into nearby Brittany (St. Malo or Roscoff) also make the region accessible with a scenic drive south to La Baule.

From the moment we arrived at L’Hermitage, it felt like a five-star experience. We were welcomed by attentive staff and checked into sea-facing rooms that offered breathtaking views over La Baule Bay. Immediately setting the tone for a luxurious stay.

The hotel itself is a grand Anglo-Norman building, offering direct access to one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches, two heated pools (indoor and outdoor), a spa, and a choice of elegant restaurants and bars. The updated rooms and public spaces, including the newly renovated Le Pavillon dining room, reflect refined elegance while offering all the comforts expected of a contemporary five-star stay.

That evening, we had the privilege of dining at Ciro’s La Baule on its opening night. The menu features the freshest local seafood - think oysters, langoustines, and sole meunière - paired with a curated French wine list. The service was impeccable, and with it nestled in the heart of the bay, it felt like you were on a luxury cruise ship.

We ended the night with a walk along La Baule’s famous 9-mile bay, hopping between local bars. Everything was walkable, laid-back, and exactly the kind of unwinding you need after a travel day.

We enjoyed breakfast in the hotel’s newly refurbished Le Pavillon - chandeliers, warm service, and all the croissants you could want!

Then it was off to Golf International Barrière La Baule, just 15 minutes away. Transfers were seamless, and we arrived to find buggies, clubs, and a friendly team at the clubhouse.

Our first round was on the Lucien Barrière Course (Red) - a wooded, narrow, and challenging course in top condition. This course is a masterclass in woodland golf, with narrow, tree-lined fairways and subtle doglegs.

The front nine is relatively flat, while the back nine introduces gentle slopes and water hazards, demanding strategic play. It’s a course that rewards accuracy and shot-making, offering a satisfying challenge for all levels.

Even under grey skies, it played beautifully and left a strong impression. The par 3s that were scattered throughout the round provided the perfect opportunity to play with risk and reward. With long fairway bunkers and discreet water features, strategic play was essential.

Lunch was enjoyed at the clubhouse, which overlooked the 18th green - an ideal spot to recount shots both triumphant and tragic.

The afternoon brought a surprise: a 2CV rally adventure through the region. Paired up in classic French cars, we were tasked with navigating scenic towns, oyster farms, and cobbled medieval streets - armed only with clues and paper maps. It was a uniquely fun and competitive way to explore the area, blending the challenge of driving and problem-solving with plenty of laughs along the way. A definite highlight amongst the group.

Back at the hotel, we had some time (and energy!) to check out the padel courts. This was part of an impressive complex featuring 25 tennis courts, beach tennis, and more, and just a few minutes away from the hotel.

Dinner that night was at Le Ponton, a laid-back beachfront restaurant just a short walk from the hotel along the bay. With hearty dishes, a warm and sociable atmosphere, and wine flowing freely, it was the perfect spot to unwind and relive the day’s adventures.

Despite a few sore heads from the night before, we were up and ready to tackle the Diane Barrière Course (Blue). The contrast from the Red course was striking. American-style, with dramatic water features and bold layouts, it tested us from the first tee to the last putt. With the sun finally breaking through, the setting was picture-perfect.

Prepare yourself for the 9th - a par-5 dogleg right that unfolds into a minefield of fairway bunkers. Safe to say, I found more than my share of them! With a completely blind tee shot, this hole demands strategy over strength. Pick the right line, trust your yardage, and you’ll give yourself a fighting chance at par.

We enjoyed a long lunch on the clubhouse terrace before exploring more of the golf club's offerings. The club’s practice facilities are outstanding: a 55-bay driving range (10 covered), approach zone, putting green, practice bunker, and a high-tech swing analysis studio. Equipment hire, electric carts, and caddies are available, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable round.

Back at the hotel, we spent our final hours soaking up the sun and making use of the Hermitage’s exceptional spa and pool. With the beach stretching endlessly before us, it was hard to believe this place is such an easy journey from home.

On our flight back, the consensus was clear: La Baule is a hidden gem. With world-class golf, impeccable service, and the charm of the French coast, it’s everything you want from a weekend golf escape, without the long-haul hassle.

So if you're looking for a luxury golf weekend with friends, a romantic retreat, or just an excuse to play incredible rounds and soak up the sea, La Baule should be at the top of your list.