Southern France offers a completely different, sun-soaked golf experience that perfectly complements its luxury lifestyle. The Provence and French Riviera regions are home to exclusive, high end resorts where golf is simply part of the opulent setting. Terre Blanche Golf Resort near Cannes is a standout, boasting two championship courses, Le Château and Le Riou, designed by Dave Thomas. Set on 750 acres of rolling Provencal hills, it delivers a spectacular combination of challenging play and five-star luxury. Further south, the region around Biarritz offers a rugged Atlantic coastline feel. Courses like Golf de Seignosse weave through the ancient pine forests, while the courses in the Deauville region of Normandy, like the Hôtel Barrière L’Hôtel du Golf Deauville, offer half-timbered elegance overlooking the English Channel.

Seasons and Optimal Travel Time

The prime time for a French golf vacation is the classic European period of late spring through early autumn, specifically May, June, September, and October. These months provide the most comfortable temperatures for golf, typically in the mid-60s to mid-70s, before the intense heat and holiday crowds of mid-summer set in. June is often considered perfect, with long days and fewer crowds before the school break. September is also highly sought after, as the weather remains pleasant and the grape harvest, or vendange, begins in the wine regions. While August is warm, many Parisian and provincial businesses close as the French take their annual holiday, making some smaller towns quieter, but coastal areas busier. The northern courses near Pas de Calais are great for cooler summer play.

French golf resorts prioritize elegance, history, and gastronomy in their hospitality model. Many luxury golf hotels are converted historic châteaux or elegant manor houses, such as the stunning Château des Vigiers in the Bordeaux region. The Terre Blanche Golf Resort is known for its vast villas, dedicated spa, and Michelin starred dining, offering a self contained, high end retreat. Near Le Golf National, travelers often stay in boutique hotels in the charming, historic suburbs or book an accommodation and golf package directly with the course’s partner hotel, the Novotel. The emphasis is on blending the refined atmosphere of the French countryside with modern, impeccable resort amenities.

Wine, History, and Coastal Leisure

The non golf appeal of France is arguably its greatest asset, guaranteeing a memorable vacation even for those who don’t play. For groups based near Paris, exploring the unparalleled historical and cultural treasures is essential, from the Louvre to the Château de Versailles. In the South, you can spend days touring the world famous vineyards of Bordeaux, enjoying wine tastings, or relaxing on the glamorous beaches of the French Riviera. The Basque region, near Biarritz, offers excellent surfing lessons on the Atlantic Coast, delicious Basque cuisine, and day trips into the Spanish side of the region for a unique cultural blend. Taking a gourmet cooking class anywhere in the country is a universally enjoyable activity.

Ready to combine the pleasures of a fine Bordeaux and historic French culture with a round on a celebrated Ryder Cup course? France offers an unmatched, elegant, and diverse golf vacation. Contact our travel specialists today to explore custom luxury packages or request a free quote for your journey to the heart of European golf.