FRANCE
Prestige
golf & hotel in Provence's hearth
by R. Bourne and JC Gambert
Provence, the southern-east province
of France, renowned for the beauty and the diversity of its
landscapes, is still an example of good living, a sort of
reference for those who dream of paradise on earth.
Avignon, April 2004
Avigon, former Pope’s city, is the epicentre of coloured
and perfumed Provence which goes from east-southern Alps to
the Mediterranean coasts which gives her its sunny climate.
The Roman have left splendid ruins nowadays invaded by cultural
events (opera at Aix and Orange, theatre in Avignon, jazz
in Toulon, corridas at Arles and Nimes…). And many artists
coming from all around the world have settled there as a second
homeland in the most attractive sites like Gordes, Saint-Rémy,
etc… It is the country of France where good living is
an art. Tourists can enjoy the countryside, a local well known
cuisine and many cultural entertainments while playing golf
on some very good courses and staying at prestigious charming
hotels.
- where
to play -
what to see
- where
to stay
Where to play
AROUND
AVIGNON
-
Grand Avignon
At arrival, the water practice just before the luxurious and
convivial club-house is impressive. All around, oaks, cypress,
pines, weeping willows et six lakes decorate this bucolic
course which can be very tricky when the local wind, the mistral,
blows in gusts. Moreover when it comes to the long par-3 #9
and the drive at the par-5 #10 which go alongside the practice
lake. The resort has also a 9 holes par 3.
-
Châteaublanc
That’s the place where all golfers can have fun just
at the southern entry of Avignon. Beginners can play the 9
holes school while the length and the numerous rivers and
pools all along the Alpilles can be a real golf test even
for good players.
- Provence Country Club
This course has been designed par the former French champion
Jean Garaïalde. It deserves a visit for his exceptional
natural site; the foothills of the Luberon mountains and the
Alpilles (small alps) surround it. The setting is magnificent
with the specific perfumed local vegetation of Provence. The
course is somewhat difficult due to the relief with slantwise
fairways and water hazards. Whatever would be your score,
it’s a course you would certainly like to replay
. - Pont Royal
This is one of the Severiano Ballesteros best-designed golf
courses. Each hole is different with its own difficulties.
Before playing, have a good look at the strokesaver. The #11
par-3 facing the Alpilles mountains is impressive and remains
in the golfers memory because of the ravine, the cliff, the
distance… and the wind…
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Avignon famous bridge
Aix en Provence
Provence golfs map
Grand Avignon club-house
Provence golf club
Pont Royal #11 famous par-3
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