Golf des Yvelines

The Golf des Yvelines, set only a short distance from the Château de Versailles and the Château de Rambouillet, provides a pleasingly regal backdrop for your game. Spread across the spectacular park belonging to the magnificent 17th-century Château de la Couharde, this 90-hectare woodland course, which opened in 1990, offers a remarkable natural setting only 30 minutes from Paris.

Surrounded by ancient oaks, beeches and lime trees, the landscape changes colours with the seasons, and it isn’t uncommon to spot deer, rabbits and other forest animals on the fairways.

Beneath the trees

Designed by the celebrated British architect Bill Backer, the Golf des Yvelines offers two complementary courses.

The more than 2,000-metre 9 by 31-hole course Les Tilleuls (the Limes), is ideal for a warm-up, or for helping beginners perfect their technique. For a real golfing challenge, you should try out the 18 by 72-hole Les Chênes (The Oaks). The 9 first holes, which border the forest, are guaranteed to provide a satisfyingly complicated drive! And don’t relax too soon when you return to the flat – the formidable bunkers there also give a challenging ride.

After your game, you can recharge batteries in the unique setting of the Château de la Couharde, where, on fine days, you can sit on its terrace overlooking the park.