France is not always the first country golfers think of for a golf trip, which is exactly why it is such a pleasant surprise. It has hundreds of courses, many of them excellent, set among vineyards, châteaux, forests, coastal dunes and Mediterranean hills. Green fees are often good value, the courses are rarely crowded midweek, and the food and wine are as much a part of the trip as the golf.
Why golf in France?
- Variety. Links-style coastal golf, forest and heathland courses, parkland near historic châteaux and Mediterranean hill courses.
- Value. Outside the most famous resorts, green fees are often lower than in other popular European destinations.
- Uncrowded courses. Golf is less mainstream in France than in the UK or the USA, so many courses are quiet, especially on weekdays.
- Food and wine. Many clubhouses serve excellent lunches, and many golf regions are famous wine regions too.
- Easy access. France is easy to reach by air, rail and, from the UK, by ferry or tunnel with your car and clubs.
The main golf regions
The north coast: Opal Coast and Picardy
The coast between Calais and the Somme has some of France's best-known golf, with links-style and dune courses among pine forests and sand hills near seaside towns such as Le Touquet and Hardelot. It is the closest golf region to the UK and makes a superb long weekend.
- Best for: links-style golf, short trips, and golfers driving from the UK.
- Good to know: like any coastal golf, the wind can be strong. Read links vs parkland courses.
Normandy and Brittany
Normandy offers clifftop and coastal courses near Deauville and Étretat, as well as parkland courses inland, with the D-Day beaches, Mont-Saint-Michel and fine seafood nearby. Brittany has a rugged coastline, charming towns and a relaxed pace, with courses on headlands and among pine woods.
Paris and the Île-de-France
The Paris region has a high concentration of courses, from historic private clubs to modern championship venues that have hosted international team competitions. Many are within easy reach of the city by car or train, so you can combine golf with sightseeing.
- Best for: a city break with golf.
- Good to know: some private clubs only accept visitors on certain days or with an introduction. Book ahead and check the rules for visitors.
The Loire Valley
The Loire Valley combines golf with châteaux, gardens, wine and cycling routes. Courses are often set in the grounds of historic estates or among forests and vineyards, and the gentle climate makes it pleasant from spring to autumn.
Bordeaux, the Atlantic coast and the Basque Country
The south-west is one of France's best golf regions:
- Bordeaux combines golf with world-famous vineyards and a beautiful city.
- The Landes coast has courses among pine forests and dunes along the Atlantic.
- The Basque Country around Biarritz has some of the oldest courses in continental Europe, with clifftop holes above the Atlantic and the Pyrenees as a backdrop.
The climate is warmer and sunnier than the north, making spring and autumn trips particularly appealing.
Provence and the Côte d'Azur
The south of France offers golf in the hills behind the Riviera, around Cannes, Nice and Saint-Tropez, and among the lavender, olive groves and vineyards of Provence. Courses are often hilly, with views over the Mediterranean or towards the Alps.
- Best for: sunshine, scenery and luxury.
- Good to know: this is the most expensive region, especially in summer. Hilly courses are best tackled with a buggy, and summer afternoons can be very hot.
Languedoc and the Pyrenees
West of Provence, the Languedoc offers better value, with courses near Montpellier, Narbonne and Perpignan, Roman and medieval towns, and good wine.
The Alps
In summer, the French Alps offer spectacular mountain golf, with cool air and stunning scenery near ski resorts and lakes. At altitude the ball flies further, and the season is short, typically from late spring to early autumn.
When to go
| Region | Best months | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| North coast, Normandy, Brittany | May to September | Mild summers; wind and rain are possible at any time |
| Paris and the Loire | April to October | Warm summers; spring and autumn are lovely |
| South-west and the Basque Country | March to June, September to November | Warm and sunny; summer can be hot and busy |
| Provence and the Riviera | March to June, September to November | Hot summers; winter golf is often possible |
| The Alps | June to September | Short season; ball flies further at altitude |
August is the main French holiday month. Coastal resorts are busy, prices rise and some businesses close. Spring and early autumn usually offer the best balance of weather, value and availability.
Practical tips
Handicap and membership
Many French courses ask visitors to show a handicap certificate or proof of membership of a golf club or federation, and some have a maximum handicap for busy times. Carry your membership card or handicap record on your phone. Read the World Handicap System explained.
Booking and green fees
- Book in advance in high season, and for well-known courses.
- Midweek is quieter and sometimes cheaper.
- Look for regional golf passes, which some tourist areas offer, giving reduced green fees at several courses.
- Buggies are available at most courses but are less universal than in some destinations; many golfers walk with a trolley.
Lunch and course etiquette
Lunch is an important part of the French day, and many clubhouses serve an excellent set menu. Courses can be quieter between noon and two o'clock, which can be a good time to play, but book the restaurant if you want to eat. Pace of play and etiquette are as in any other country; see golf etiquette 101. Dress codes vary: smart golf clothing is always safe.
Language
Many staff at popular courses speak English, but a few words of French go a long way. Useful terms include le départ (the tee), le parcours (the course), le chariot (the trolley), la voiturette (the buggy) and le green (the green, happily the same).
Getting there with your clubs
Driving lets you bring your clubs and move easily between courses; motorways are excellent but many have tolls. If flying, check your airline's sports equipment rules and read travelling with golf clubs. Many courses also hire clubs.
Sample trip ideas
- A long weekend on the north coast: three rounds on the Opal Coast, seafood dinners and an easy journey home.
- A week in the south-west: Bordeaux vineyards, Atlantic forest courses and the Basque coast.
- Golf and châteaux: four or five days in the Loire, mixing rounds with castle visits and wine tasting.
- Riviera sunshine: a spring week in Provence, with hill courses, markets and the Mediterranean.
Frequently asked questions
Is France good for golf holidays?
Yes. It offers great variety, good value outside the top resorts, quiet courses, and the bonus of superb food, wine and culture.
Do I need a handicap to play golf in France?
Many courses ask for one, or for proof of membership of a golf club or federation. Some have maximum handicap limits. Carry your details and check when you book.
When is the best time to play golf in France?
Late spring and early autumn are ideal for most regions. Avoid August if you prefer quieter courses and lower prices.
Is golf expensive in France?
Some well-known resorts are expensive, especially on the Riviera in summer. Many other courses offer good value, particularly midweek and outside peak season.
Can I hire buggies and clubs?
Yes, at most courses, though it is wise to book buggies in advance, especially in summer.
The bottom line
France rewards golfers who give it a try: varied, uncrowded courses, sensible green fees, and the chance to combine golf with some of the world's best food, wine and scenery. Pick a region to suit the season, carry your handicap details, book ahead in summer and make time for a long lunch. For more destination ideas, read our guides to golf holidays in Spain and Portugal, golf in Scotland and how to plan a golf trip.