Olympics, visit and play golf in the southwest of France

France’s largest area – larger than Austria – New Aquitaine’s capital is Bordeaux. Stretching south from La Rochelle to Pau in the Pyrénées inland east to Limoges – France’s ceramic’s capital, Nouvelle-Aquitaine’s agriculture and viticulture are important globally. France’s second large wine producer, aerospace and technology industries thrive, as do pharmaceuticals in this massive area. Its Atlantic coastline is home to reserves plus famed tourism resorts – Arcachon, Biarritz, Royan. Important forests add to the beauty, vitality from north and inland to the Basque country and Pyrénées. Mountains also dot importantly Nouvelle-Aquitaine and some great forests – “Green and Black” (truffles) in the Dordogne plus  the “white Périgord Grain fields” and Bergerac’s vineyards. The Gironde Estuary – Western Europe’s largest – is home to the famed vineyards of Bordeaux and Medoc. The extreme south is Basque Country, home to popular Biarritz and other resorts including historic Pau. A fishing and trading center since the 12^th century, La Rochelle reflects France’s maritime glories in the « Vieux Port« , its half-timbered houses, Renaissance architecture, plus its famed 14^th century Towers guarding its entrance. Modern massive « Les Minimes Marina » is a vital transportation hub for the north of France – one of the world’s largest marinas. 

Biarritz

South West History and Heritage

Julius Caesar described  Gaul – “Aquitania” – as the land from the Pyrénées to the Garonne River which became a Roman district with extended borders north to the Loire and east to Massif Central. Defiant, Charlemagne finally conquered Aquitaine in the 8^th century. Poitiers Counts gained control for several centuries and extended lands to Toulouse. Eleanor of Aquitaine married England’s Henry II; his son Richard-the-Lion-Heart eventually declaring crown lands. Returned to France in the Hundred Years’ War; numerous Emperors from Napoléon to kings ruled the Aquitaine. Aquitaine was finally incorporated into the Third Republic of France,  In 2016 it was re-organised as Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

South West Natures and Landscapes

With four distinct seasons New Aquitaine offers  a uniquely diverse range of different landscapes. From snow-capped summits to long sun-soaked beaches, and shady forests to the attractive  cities and villages, it delights. Europe’s leading agricultural region, its livestock, vineyards are famed, as is its important agri-food industry. The Pyrénées soar in the south; the rest of the topography is mainly lowlands, forested or older low lying mountain blocks. Nature is abundant with five Regional Parks and 30 Reserves – nine Regionals, 21 Nationals; new ones are opening soon. Mild winters lead to hot summers with cool onshore breezes helping, rainfall is moderate.  

South West Art and Culture

South West France’s rich heritage yields interesting traditions  in food specialities, wines, sporting activities, museums, art, festivals, and monuments. Over 90 bull rings in Aquitaine host bullfighting; “Férias” are a Red and White tradition from June to August. Basque Pelota (tennis precursor), Rugby ( by the British), Skittles « Quilles« , and Basque Power games « Jeux de Forces »  are famous Aquitaine pursuits.

Religious and historical monuments are found throughout New Aquitaine. Medieval villages, Castles and Fortifications are prevalent with designated touring circuits to follow. Several important Paleolithic sites are exceptional. French is the official language; but several other native languages are used too. Basque is common in the far south.

South West Gastronomy

Gastronomy offers many local treasures – Truffles, Foie Gras, Cassoulet, Duck Magret and Confit, Entrecôte Bordelaise, Pauillac lamb Persillade, Agen Prunes, Cèpes,  Bayonne ham are some. Wines are famed worldwide from Bordeaux, Medoc, Saint-Emilion along with Pyrenees Atlantic’s Jurançon, Armagnac in the Landes, Lot’s Côtes Buzet and Duras plus Dordogne’s Bergerac, Garonne delight too. Bordeaux’s most  famed wines are  Margaux, Medoc, Sauterne, Saint-Emilion, Bergerac, Monbazillac, Madiran.

South West Festivals and Traditions

Harvests have many traditions plus festivals; these vary regionally throughout New Aquitaine. Wine and spirits are usually more festive- but don’t miss oysters, food, cheese, and others. A variety of music festivals – rock, jazz, country – are organized annually throughout all regions. Local calendars publish most cultural activities and festivals.

South West Activities

Sports and outdoor activities are popular in New Aquitaine. Soccer, tennis, golf, cycling, fishing, swimming, archery, fencing, boxing, wresting are pursued everywhere. Rugby is king… all water sports too besides surfing and sailing. Canoeing, kayaking are growing. Skiing in the Pyrénées and other winter sports are pursued. Golf has expanded in recent years considerably into other areas of New Aquitaine from the south.

South West Tourism

Discoveries await from the Atlantic’s beaches, forests, mountains to picturesque villages, castles, fortifications, ancient ruins and historic excavations.

Lovely La Rochelle offers a great visit to discover the triumvirate  Atlantic Islands with Ile de Ré being the most preferred.  Wonderful moments discovering the Vieux Port, starting at the Tour de l’Horloge then the Tour de la Chaine, taste  fresh seafood from le P’tit Blue, relax at Café Leffe enjoying the views. Climb the Towers… 15^th Century Lantern Tower is the oldest on the Atlantic Coast. Market lovers will adore La Rochelle’s market. Rue St. Nicolas is tops for shopping and dining…try Cave de la Guinguette – unforgettable is a “Guinguette”! Foodies will love the L’Astrolabe. The Arcades are must visits too. Half-timbered houses, La Rochelle’s restored Hotel de Ville, plus some slate protected edifices are unique. Historians will want to understand the Siege of La Rochelle. Beautiful beaches offer relaxation after sightseeing – Plage de Concurrence is tops. Plage de Minimes offers more modern accommodations and dining. Want to stay in a Lighthouse as a guardian ? Contact the « Association Phare du Bout du Monde » for day and night stay.

Globally famed for its decorated porcelain, Limoges’ historical center amazes with medieval timber-frame dwellings on the Rue de la Boucherie, the Museum of Beaux-Arts housed in the former Episcopal Palace beautifully depicts the history of Limoge’s medieval enamel works. The impressive Gothic Cathedral St.-Etienne de Limoges took six centuries to complete, medieval timber-frame houses line Rue de la Boucherie.  The National Museum Adrien Dubouche collections are revered. The Gothic Cathédrale Saint-Étienne de Limoges took six centuries to complete. Known for its enamel and stain-glass works, its architectural treasures are not to be missed and unusual sites like its unique cemetery.

Stroll the Quartier de la Boucherie, visit the quaint, tiny Chapelle Saint Aurelieni, then indulge in Limoges cuisine. Try the Limousin beef with Cèpe mushrooms. “Baronet” lamb chops are not to be missed. The 1885 Covered Market – Les Halles – offers unique dining. It’s great architecture – Eiffel Tower’s little sister – houses  more than 40 stands from spices to pastries, lunch is the best time. Shopping for porcelain, head to Blvd Louis Blanc…Galerie Le Bocal offers a collection of craftspeople and their creations.

Romanesque churches, medieval abbeys, ancient chateaux surround Cognac and its interesting historical past.  Francis I was born at the Royal Chateau de Cognac making it a Royal location – famed for “its liquor of the Gods”. Old Cognac is the historic center named  after this double-distilled spirit – Cognac. Discover Cognac’s secrets, take a private Cognac tour, enjoy the Cognac Museum, dine at some of Cognac’s exceptional tables, visit  Roman and Medieval treasures, plus discover river boat rides, hiking and biking getaways, or relax and stay in charming 18^th century lodgings. In town visit Hennessy, Martell, Otard, Camus and Remy Martin tastings, Courvoisier lies east in Jarnac.

Dordogne’s charming Périgueux is home to turrets, domes. Its famed Saint-Front Cathedral – with its five cupolas recalls Venice’s St. Marks – as well as important Gallo-Roman ruins. An excavated Roman house showcases baths, murals plus the Tour de Vesone’s remains of a Gallo-Roman temple. Périgord Museum of Art and Archaeology offers unique ancient artifacts, African sculptures, plus modern paintings. Périgueux is really two towns-the Roman and the Medieval. Views from the Mataguerre Tower delight with lovely old residences and architectural marvels. Street dining for lunch is fun…don’t miss trying the “pâté de foie gras.” Roman Périgueux is just west of the town;  smaller showcasing  treasures. A picnic is memorable in “Les Jardins des Arènes” an old Roman Amphithéâtre.

Nearby are the famed caves of Vezere Valley dating back 17000 years including 600 partial wall paintings covering interior walls and other important archeological finds which attract global guests.

On the banks of the Dordogne lies enchanting Bergerac in the heart of Périgord Pourpre – “Town of Art and History” by France’s Ministry of Culture – plus wines from the Roman’s conquest. Bergerac’s noted wines are Pecharmant, Monbazillac and Saussignac. Developed around an 11^th Century castle,  Bergerac received travelers and pilgrims initially. Today, delightful fountains, historic alleys and winding medieval streets, half-timbered buildings and the Old Town’s Place Pélissière enchant not only architecture fans. A visit to the Maison des Vins de Bergerac regals with its expose of its wines and 13 appellations. The National Tobacco Museum is also intriguing. Try a “gabare” barge up river or from Beynac or La Roque Gageac discovering chateaux and tiny towns. Chateau de Monbazillac famed for its sweet wines offers visits as does Chateau de Tiregand – a famed wine chateau.  Nearby Eymet is an enticing bastide town  as is medieval village Issigeac, while Jardins de Sardy are appreciated by garden lovers. Gastronomy is king in Périgord -cèpes, truffles, chestnuts, Agen prunes, Sauce Périgord are well-known. 

A world heritage site – Bordeaux’s Saint-Emilion is a charming medieval village located in the heart of its famed wine region. Émilion was a Brittany monk who arrived in the 8^th century and accomplished some miracles, followers came, religious center followed after his demise carrying on his legacy. The village, its vineyards, plus over 200 km of underground galleries were the first vineyard appointed UNESCO Heritage – Cultural Landscape (1999). The wine is famed; its diversity is due to complex geology and its micro-climate. Annually Spring Feast and “Ban des Vendanges” for the harvest are celebrated; discover many activities, tastings, dining, even the opportunity to create your own wine.

Arcachon Golf Club****

Seaside resort Arcachon is famed for its oysters and lies near Europe’s highest natural sand dune – Dune de Pilat stretching 2.7 kilometers, 104 meters high. Dune visits are one of Aquitaine’s highlights.  Arcachon’s districts are named after the seasons; Ville d’Été is summer full of shopping streets, the main beach area, plus a 19^th century Casino Chateau Deganne. Ville d’Hiver (winter) is home to many extravagant 19^th century homes. Nearby Cap Ferret is on pine tree headland with top beaches for swimming and surfing overlooking Pilat Dune. Casual bars, relaxed ambiance are found here with oyster farming and tastings too. Walkers can hike the six-kilometer path to the Dune or visit the Cap Ferret Lighthouse.

Biarritz and Hotel du Palais 5* By Hyatt

Since the 1800’s European royalty flock to elegant Biarritz with its alluring sandy beaches, trendy lifestyle. France’s last Empress Eugenie de Montijo put Biarritz in the limelight with Emperor Napoléon III building their summer retreat here changing the whaling village forever.  Villa Eugénie today is the elegant Hotel du Palais with waves coming gently over the white sand to its doorstep – the emblem of Biarritz. Biarritz has many resplendent mansions, Art Deco architecture galore like its famed 1929 Municipal Casino, which today is a theater, luxury pool, and restaurant. 1864’s Imperial Chapel built for Napoleon III and Eugenie de Montijo is delightful  nearby the Hotel du Palais. Sports and surfing entice many to Biarritz on France’s Basque coast. Famed for its “Rocher de la Vierge” with a statue of the Virgin Mary that can be reached by bridge, one has superb views of Biscay Bay; walk or ride to Biarritz’s Phare built in 1830 – a famed symbol and scenic point for more photo ops. Its Grande Plage has enticed tourists for decades like the breathtaking Maritime Promenade with its benches. European surfing was born here in 1957 becoming the “Mecca of Surfing”. Golfers adore Biarritz with its 16 courses within less than 100 kilometers – crowning Biarritz  “Queen of the Greens”.

Overlooking the Pyrénées Pau lies inland from the Atlantic with the “world’s most beautiful view of the earth just as Naples has it of the sea”; Pau sits on the ancient “Boulevard des Pyrénées”. Occupied since the Gallo-Roman era, it is close to Spain’s border having hosted the Kings of Navarre since the 1500’s becoming a leading political, intellectual center. Wealthy aristocrats, intellectuals, leaders came to Pau for its climate plus its sparking of aviation’s development – the Wrights’ brothers  were prominent. Home to France’s first golf club – Golf Club Pau 1856*** – is one of the world’s oldest; it was founded by Lord Hamilton. Nearby is the renown Pyrenees market town of Lourdes, famed for its Sanctuaries Notre-Dame de Lourdes which bringing millions of pilgrims annually to visit the “Grotto of Massabielle” to drink and bath in its hot spring waters.

Bordeaux

Situated on the Garonne River, New Aquitaine’s capital Bordeaux is a port city, hub for its famed vineyards, and is the Region’s most influential metropolitan area. Gardens grace its public quays, an array of 18^th and 19^th century mansions, impressive museums are here, imposing architecture surrounds its famed Place de la Bourse with its curved Three Graces fountain and reflecting pool “Miroir d’Eau”.  Celtic inhabitants called it “Burdigala” originally in 300 BC; Romans invaded in 60 BC making it eventually the capital of Roman Aquitaine. 

Bordeaux’s more than 350 historical buildings await plus monuments, dozens of museums, art galleries, and its new Wine Experience center attracts – even Parisians.  Famed for its gastronomy there are more than nine Michelin Star restaurants  in the city center. Easy visits to the surrounding wine domains of Gironde, Medoc, Graves, and Bordelais await; annually, it  hosts the world’s main wine fair, Vinexpo.  Museums – Cité du Vin – are a must just like the many superb Markets – adored by all;  open aired or covered they shouldn’t be overlooked – plan ahead your visits. Enjoy a concert at Bordeaux’s Grand Theater,  dine in charming medieval St. Pierre – Bordeaux’s Old Town. Visits should also include the “Port of the Moon”, majestic Bordeaux Cathedral, plus strolling along the park-lined  Quays and Majolan Park. Shopping awaits on rue St. Catherine…wine and cheese tastings tempt everywhere. Some Bordeaux tastes include “Lampreda à la Bordeaux” – a snake like fish entrée adored by the rich. “Canelé » is a crunchy carmel with sweet vanilla, rum interior. Crepes galore and “Niniche” – a chocolate carmel sweet – are special Bordeaux delights.

South West, Where to stay ? Dordogne, Bordeaux, Médoc

Chateaux des Vigiers****, Les Vigiers, 24240 Monestier

The perfect discovery of French history, gastronomy, and service excellence awaits at this “Petit Versailles” situated amongst 27-holes of golf in Dordogne’s verdant undulating countryside. Chateau des Vigiers welcomes all royally and elegantly with it centuries old allure of carved marble fireplaces, magnificient hand-woven tapestries, authentic period furniture, and imposing staircases. Relax, dine, enjoy the unique Salons, Drawing Room, Billard Room, and Library with top service levels meeting all needs while discovering its Michelin Star cuisine. A perfect complement to the Games; discover the Bordeaux’s tempting offerings and enchanting nearby Dordogne delights – plus play three unique Donald Steele 9-hole layouts, enjoying relaxation and pampering at the Chateau.

For over a decade  Michelin Star “Les Fresques” enchants, thanks to its unique, creative regional delights matched with superb selections of top local wines. The Chateau’s individually decorated 25 accommodations mirror the Chateau’s past reflecting perfectly the tastes, styles of the epoch. The Dependances provide additional housing with a more rural style. Service levels are five-star from arrival to tee times to dining and one’s last taste as managed by Sandra and her friendly, professional team.  Spa offerings are available too.

Golfers of all levels will enjoy the variety of Steele’s tests, the Valley – 3143 m, par-36, the Vines -3069 m, par-36, the Lake – 2854 m, par-35. Hilly with stands of oak, vineyards, prune trees, lakes and streams, plus bunkering lead to burrowed greens. Steele designed a fair test with four sets of tees; practice facilities are available. Lessons, coaching offered by Matthew and team. Cosy 19^th hole bar at the Chateau welcomes, as does casual dining daily at the Bistrot.  Electric bike rentals, tours, Bergerac “gabare” trips, vineyards, etc. arranged. A unforgettable souvenir awaits…

Médoc Resort*****, Le Pian-Médoc

Located near the famed “Route des Chateaux” this MGallery Collection Golf Resort is home to two testing 18-hole courses –  Chateau and Vignes.  The resort offers heated pool, hammam, modeling and fitness areas plus dining options with wines from local vineyards.

One of France’s top courses – ranked France’s No.1 for several years – Chateaux (par-71, 6345 m) was  designed by Bill Coore.  It has hosted a variety of French amateur and professional national competitions, plus some international events. Testing, frequently exposed to varying winds, heathland more than parkland, its long and bunkered,  with a number of testing water hazards or bunkering before arriving to large greens. No weak holes, it’s long but playable with precision plotting. Only three par-5’s, but the  par-3’s are treacherous. Magnums mark distance on each hole; each hole is named for a regional great wine. A definite must play…

Canadian Rob Whitman designed Vignes (par 71- 6237 m) a fine complement technically to the Chateaux in 1991. Maturing, the Vignes has gained stature in recent years. Heathland too, it isn’t quite as long, its numerous dog-legs, water obstacles demand precision for avoiding trouble. The inward nine has great par-5’s and some short tests too while the 8^th is memorable on the front. Médoc Resort***** offers excellent practice facilities, an Academy, plus the latest training tools and technics.

And yet…

Château de Courtebotte – Saint-Jean-de-Blaignac: an elegant 17th-century castle nestled in the heart of the Saint-Émilion vineyards, offering luxurious rooms, refined cuisine, and an outdoor pool overlooking the vineyards.

Domaine de Raba – Talence: a historic estate with authentic charm, housing a refined hotel, a renowned restaurant, and beautifully maintained gardens.

Les Sources de Caudalie – Martillac: a haven of peace in the heart of the Bordeaux vineyards, renowned for its vine-based spa and gastronomic delights.

La Réserve at Pavillon du Château Raba – Talence: located in a wooded park, this 19th-century castle offers an elegant stay, with its Michelin-starred restaurant and wellness area.

Château de Mirambeau – Mirambeau: a 16th-century castle transformed into a luxury hotel, offering sumptuous rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a refined spa.

Hôtel de Tourny – Bordeaux: a charming hotel ideally located in the historic center of Bordeaux, offering an elegant setting and tastefully decorated rooms, close to the city’s main attractions.

Le Vieux Logis – Trémolat, Périgord Noir: a charming hotel nestled in a medieval village in the Périgord Noir, offering an authentic and refined setting, with elegantly decorated rooms and gourmet cuisine highlighting regional products.

South West, Where to dine ? Bordeaux, Biarritz

Some dining suggestions to tempt…

In Bordeaux…

Restaurant Le Chapon Fin, Bordeaux: Located in Bordeaux’s Golden Triangle in the city center, established in 1825 it has a long history of Michelin stars, prominent guests too.

Le Quatrième Mur, adjacent to Bordeaux’s Grand Theatre. Two choises – Brasserie (ground floor) with a single fixed menu or Table d’Hotes (first floor) offers more exclusive dining, seating 12 guests.

Brasserie Bordelaise, historic center, rue St. Remi. Enjoy traditional recipes of local cuisine. Some national alternatives too.

 Coffee Napoléon 3, near the Grand Theatre. A European Heritage listed café, is offers local cuisine with an elegance. Enjoy salads, lamb, duck, plus a variety of omelettes.

 Brasserie L’Orléans, Quartier des Grands-Hommes. Situated in an impressive stone edifice, it stays open late for after theater diners.

For Bordeaux’s Michelin starred restaurants, see latest guide.

In Saint-Emilion, La Table de Pavie*** Michelin, Hotel de Pavie.  Chef Yannick Alleno’s passion provides a modern enticing cuisine, creativity.

In Biarritz,

Hotel du Palais, Biarritz offers elegance, excellent cuisine and service in a historical setting seaside.

Le Birdie, Avenue de Chateau, Bidart delights with amazing panoramas of the coast, cliffs, spectacular golf center and training course. An excellent cuisine and cave are available for both lunch and dinner with top service, unique selections and local specialties. Reservations essential.

Golf Club Biarritz le Phare****, Biarritz. Terrace and Club house dining are sport chic. “Moules frites” are excellent plus interesting wines and daily selections. Lunch only; open to public.

Le Clos Basque: A renowned restaurant for its traditional Basque cuisine, featuring dishes that highlight fresh local products. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, perfect for a relaxed evening with friends or family.

Les Rosiers: Located by the sea, this restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Its refined and creative cuisine, showcasing the flavors of the region, makes it a popular destination for food lovers.

L’Impertinent: A modern and elegant restaurant offering inventive and daring cuisine, crafted from seasonal local produce. Its chic and contemporary atmosphere makes it an ideal place for a memorable culinary experience in Biarritz.

Golfing – New Aquitaine

Whether a beginner or experienced golfer, New Aquitaine’s golf courses offer an opportunity to play in exceptional natural settings, picturesque landscapes plus an exceptional variety of challenges and layouts. Championship layouts are found plus many 9-hole tests, and  some with on-site accommodations too.

Interesting  “must plays” are….

Chateau des Vigiers, Monestier, 27 holes**** designed by UK’s top architect Donald Steele in a verdant regal Dordogne setting.

Médoc Resort, Le Pian-Médoc – 36 holes***** heathland golf. Bill Coore’s Championship Chateaux tests; one of Europe’s best. The Vignes 18-hole layout offers challenges for all in a heathland setting.

Golf de Biarritz le Phare****, Biarritz. France’s second oldest course (1888 design Tom & Willie Dunn, 1920 H.S. Colt). In the heart of Biarritz, le Phare is a private association; par-69, 5372 yds. This challenging undulating layout demands precision shot-making to well-defended sloping greens beautifully maintained. Superb vistas and nature, sea breezes challenge continually on this ocean front track. Excellent practice facilities plus delightful dining and ambiance daily til sunset. The Club House displays wonderful images, memorabilia of golf and the Club’s history. Walkers only; no carts. Play with a member if possible; guests have restricted times.

Golf de Chiberta***, 104 Blvd des Plages, 64600 Anglet

Designed in 1911 by Tom Simpson  revamped in 2011 by   Stuart Hallett – Chiberta’s 18 hole-layout stretches 5600 m from the tips, par-71. It follows the beach for a links feel, then winds through forests over hilly terrain. Dotted with water hazards, strategic bunkering leading to testing greens, Chiberta challenges from the first drive as do the variable sea breezes. For beginning golfers, Chiberta’s flat Imperatrice 9-hole course, par-29  offers an excellent round . Practice facilities, Club House dining and facilities are open to guests; reservations essential. No carts allowed. A hotel is adjacent.

Golf de Seignosse****, is an 18-hole 4**** par 73 course of 5880 meters open since 1990 in Seignosse, 40 – Landes. Designed by architect Robert Van Hagge.18th is one of the two PAR-6 in France (728 yards), the longest hole in France !

Golf de Pau 1856***, Pau is France’s oldest course and one of the world’s earliest. A testing layout, par-69, 5314 meters, it challenges with a flat layout dotted with water, testing fairways and trying fast small greens. Club House, practice facilities await with a warm welcome from Simon; visit their Museum too. Reservations essential.

Hossegor Golf Course ****, Opened in 1930, the Golf Club of Hossegor offers an 18-hole, 4-star course of 5797m, par-71.

Chantaco Golf Course****, 18 holes (5833m PAR-70), open since 1935 in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, 64 – Pyrénées Atlantiques designed by Harry Colt.

About the 2024 Olympics Events   

Here are some of the main locations in France that will host various competitions and events related to the 2024 Olympics:

• Olympic Stadium (Stade Olympique): Known as the Stade de France, north of Paris, it will be the main venue for opening and closing ceremonies, as well as athletics events.
• Football: The matches will be organized in 7 of the largest stadiums in France, in Paris (Parc des Princes), Nantes (Stade de la Beaujoire), Bordeaux (Stade de Bordeaux), Marseille (Stade de Marseille), Nice (Stade de Nice), Saint Étienne (Stade Geoffroy-Guichard), and Lyon (Stade de Lyon).
• Olympic Village: Located in the Saint-Denis region north of Paris, it will provide accommodation for athletes participating in the Games.
• Seine-Saint-Denis: This region will host several events and sports facilities, including the Olympic Village, Olympic Aquatic Center, and Olympic Stadium Aquatic.
• Champ de Mars: Located near the Eiffel Tower in the heart of Paris, it will be the site for beach volleyball events.
• Château de Versailles (west of Paris): The Château de Versailles will be the starting and finishing point for the road cycling event.
• Place de la Concorde : In the heart of Paris, it will host the marathon finish and the race-walking event.
• Le Bourget (northeast of Paris): Shooting events.
• Château de Vincennes (east of Paris): Equestrian events.
• Vélodrome National de Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines (west of Paris): Track cycling competitions.
• Village de la Voile (Olympic Marina, Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur): Yachting regattas etc.
• Parc des Expositions de la Porte de Versailles (south of Paris): It will be used for events such as taekwondo and judo.
• Toussus-le-Noble Aérodrome (west of Paris): Archery events.
• Golf National*****, Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines – Guyancourt : Golf events at the Golf National 5*, Albatros course, Vallée de Chevreuse (southwest of Paris)

GOLFING HELP

Like hotels, an official, free, and independent classification of all French golf courses exists; we recommend consulting it and using it !

All your needs from booking and tee times, stays, equipment for your golfing activities are answered in English and French. CLICK HERE TO DISCOVER

Susanne Kemper and Stéphane Coudoux

5 Olympic rings, 5 regions in France, 5 stars…

Are you coming to France for the Olympic Games and planning to visit the country and play golf ? Golfstars publishes 5 in-depth articles advising and guiding you to make your trip a success and play golf in the best conditions, you will find in each article divided into 5 regions (Paris and Île-de-France, the West, the Northeast, the Southwest, and the Southeast) our top recommendations for dining, accommodation, outings, sightseeing, and golfing! Here are the links to our regional articles:

Paris Île-de-France (phone code 01): CLICK HERE

The West (phone code 02): CLICK HERE

The Northeast (phone code 03): CLICK HERE

The Southeast (phone code 04): CLICK HERE

The Southwest (phone code 05): you re reading !

About Susanne Kemper

Susanne Kemper has covered the US PGA Tour circuit on the West Coast and major PGA events, European DP Tour events, PGA Majors, WGC events, major South African, Latin American, and Australian tournaments for over 20 years, as well as the Ryder Cup since Valderrama. She has covered numerous LPGA and LET events and their Majors, as well as several Solheim Cups. Living and working from Switzerland, she has written numerous articles on travel destinations worldwide for various international publications in multiple languages.

About Stéphane Coudoux

Stéphane Coudoux was born and has been living in Paris for 63 years. He has been working in golf media for 38 years and used his extensive experience to create the official GolfStars golf classification in 2014, based on the objectivity of golf services and facilities, similar to hotels. As an extension, his exclusive and free Search Engine allows golfers and travelers to freely choose their golf trip.