Best Public Golf Courses in France: Open to All Golfers

Oui to Public Golf: Discover France’s Welcoming Fairways

Looking to play on the best public golf courses in France? You don’t need a private club tie or elite invitation. From the coasts of Biarritz to the hills of Provence, France’s open-access courses are scenic, challenging, and ready to welcome players of all levels.

Whether you’re planning a full-blown golf trip or just want to squeeze in a casual round during your vacation, these are the best public golf courses in France where anyone can play and everyone can enjoy.

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1. Golf National (Albatros Course) – Guyancourt, Paris Region

Golf National is France’s golf crown jewel — and it’s open to the public. This dramatic, tournament-style course features water hazards, tight approaches, and heart-racing finishes. Book ahead and bring your A-game.

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2. Evian Resort Golf Club – Evian-les-Bains, Haute-Savoie

Perched above Lake Geneva with the Alps in the background, Evian Resort is as scenic as it gets. Despite hosting a women’s major championship, it’s open to visitors and provides rental clubs, excellent service, and walkable beauty.

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3. Golf de Seignosse – Landes, Southwest France

A favorite among locals and tourists alike, Seignosse is challenging, thrilling, and gorgeous. Fairways snake through dense pine trees, and no two holes feel the same. Best of all? It’s fully open to public play.

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4. Golf de Chiberta – Anglet, Basque Coast

Located near Biarritz, Chiberta blends true coastal character with old-world charm. It’s walkable, breezy, and beautiful — a standout for golfers looking to combine sun and strategy.

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5. Golf de la Grande Motte – Occitanie, Southern France

Great for travelers new to the game or just seeking a low-pressure round, Grande Motte is fun, scenic, and stress-free. With wide fairways and gentle greens, it’s ideal for casual golf with a coastal backdrop.

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6. Golf International de Pont Royal – Provence

Pont Royal is tucked into the Provencal countryside and offers tight tee shots, bold greens, and brilliant views. Open to all golfers and a regular Challenge Tour stop, it’s a thrilling ride for golf fans.

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7. Golf d’Hossegor – Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Southwest Coast

Hossegor is a blast from the past — a traditional French course that rewards precision and touch. It’s scenic, strategic, and always welcoming, with a relaxing club atmosphere.

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8. Barbaroux Golf Club – Var, Provence

Quirky and unforgettable, Barbaroux is France’s answer to American-style golf. Expect island greens, massive bunkers, and blind shots galore — all available to book online.

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9. Golf Club de Lyon (Les Sangliers) – Rhône-Alpes

While Lyon’s best-known course, Les Brocards, leans private, Les Sangliers offers an accessible and enjoyable public round just outside one of France’s most vibrant cities.

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10. Golf Bluegreen Bellefontaine – Near Paris

Bellefontaine is a great intro to French golf — close to Paris, well-maintained, and open all week. With two nines and laid-back service, it’s a fantastic first stop for traveling golfers.

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Tips for Playing Public Golf in France

• Reserve online to guarantee tee times — weekends fill fast
  
• Rental clubs are common, especially at resort or tourist-friendly courses
  
• Respect the dress code: collared shirts and soft spikes
  
• Bring a few extra balls: Some forested layouts are tight and punishing
  
• Pair golf with sightseeing — many courses are near vineyards, castles, or coastlines
  

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Conclusion

Golf in France doesn’t have to be exclusive or intimidating. From coastal links to alpine escapes and Provençal fairways, there’s a public golf course for every type of player — and many are just as stunning as their private counterparts.

So if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and cultural golf getaway, say “oui” to France’s public fairways. The views are amazing, the courses are welcoming, and the wine afterward is always world-class.

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FAQs

1. Do I need a handicap certificate to play public golf courses in France?
   Most public courses do not require a handicap, though some championship venues may request it for certain tee times.
   
2. Are tee times easy to book online in France?
   Yes. Many courses have booking portals or partner with golf travel sites for smooth online reservations.
   
3. Is it expensive to play golf in France?
   Compared to other countries, France offers good value — especially at public and municipal courses. Expect mid-range prices at most public venues.
   
4. Can I play golf near major cities like Paris or Nice?
   Absolutely. Great public courses are available near Paris, Nice, Lyon, and Marseille.
   
5. What’s the best time of year to play public golf in France?
   Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and prime course conditions.