English Golf Courses

Golf in the French Alps

Ask any golfer what makes a course memorable for them and one of the first things they’ll likely say is the scenery.

There’s nothing at all quite like playing a round in beautiful surroundings, whether by the sea, in the midst of luscious countryside or against a beautiful mountain backdrop. And for those who have a particular predilection for the latter, the French Alps are absolutely ideal.

You’re not short on options for somewhere to play here either. The most famous course here is unquestionably Evian Masters, home of the flagship tournament on the Ladies’ European Tour. It is set within the grounds of the Royal Parc Evian, looking down on Lake Geneva. There are many superb holes on the course, and a particular stand-out is the short 15th which plays from a high, elevated tee. Take it from us, you won’t forget it in a hurry.

Flaine is another for your list. Situated close to Geneva and Chamonix Mont Blanc, the course towers at an altitude of 1,900 metres – a whopping 6,200 ft – above sea level. What’s more, every tee affords wonderful views of the mountain ranges all around, namely Mont Blanc, Jura and the Belledonne ranges.

The seventh hole is one of the most memorable. The tee is set on a high overhang above a huge ravine, with wonderful views of the vallée de l'Arve, 1,200 metres below, to enjoy from the green. Stunning stuff.

The Golf Club du Lac d’Annecy, meantime, offers one of the most picturesque settings in European golf. It is set against a backdrop of the Dents de Lanfon and La Tournette mountains through the front nine holes, before diving into deep into the forest of Roc de Chere.

Situated below the Mer du Glace, you’ll find the Golf Club de Chamonix. It was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr and many people consider it to be his finest achievement from a lifetime of ingenious course design. It’s setting is quite remarkable: snow-capped peaks and glaciers are visible from every fairway with Aiguilles du Midi, Aiguilles Rouge and Mont Blanc further adding to the captivating aesthetics.

And if it’s a real Alpine golf experience you’re looking for, with stunning pine-fringed fairways, beautiful water features and more, then you’ll find it at Les Gets. As well as enjoying a beautiful setting, the course is a good challenge, with plenty of challenges at every hole.