27 Jul 2012
Posted by Rory 
Beautiful coastal towns, first class golf courses and charming surroundings are the hallmarks of golf in Normandy, which is among the most popular destinations for anyone looking to embark on a French Golf Holiday. With the option of accessing the golfing possibilities either via the Eurotunnel crossing to Calais or from the main ports of Cherbourg, Caen and Dieppe, escaping to Normandy for a golf break could not be easier.
The great contrasts inherent to golf in Normandy make it fascinating and engaging, with plenty of on offer. The coastline is marked by fabulous holiday hot spots like Deauville, Trouville, and Etretat, while inland, lush parkland landscapes await your arrival. The best Normandy golf trips should track the picturesque coastline, whose scenery and attractions are almost as much of a draw as the endless procession of top class golf courses that are just waiting to be played.
Upon disembarking the Eurotunnel, clubs and excess luggage in tow, your first port of call on the journey down the North France coastline should be the charming holiday resort town of Deauville. This golfing hotspot is the star of the show for golfers visiting Normandy, offering not only outstanding golf but also splendid beaches, renowned hotels, casinos and nightlife. Deauville has long been a favourite coastal escape for Parisiens and British alike, and it remains a truly magical place to enjoy a golf break.
The leading golfing light in Deauville is Golf Barriere De Deauville, which surrounds the famous Hotel Du Golf Barriere. Inaugurated in 1931, Golf Barriere De Deauville originally offered 18 holes but following developments it now boasts 27, offering great variety to golfers of all abilities. The original 18 holes were designed by Tom Simpson, an Englishman whose legacy is visible throughout northern France. Since then, an additional Henry Cotton designed loop has been added, rounding off what is a very impressive golfing experience.
While the three loops of nine at Golf Barriere De Deauville are good in their own right, what may live the longest in the memory is the amazing panorama that the resort’s cliff top location presents. Simpson’s two sets of 9 are known as the Red and White, and together they form a delightful 6,508 yard course, not overly long by modern standards but healthy enough to pose a question or two of more talented players games. The addition of the Blue Course, an extra nine holes by the great Sir Henry Cotton, means that there is variety at Barriere De Deauville, which is ideal for a golf break abroad. Gentle undulations and fair conditions for all golfers characterize all three nine hole loops, striking just the right balance of challenging the low handicappers without overwhelming the average player. If you enjoy the tranquil surrounds of classic parkland courses then Golf Barriere De Deauville is an absolute must on a golf tour of Northern France.
Owned and managed by the highly regarded Lucien Barriere group, Golf Barriere De Saint-Julien is only ten minutes from the heart of Deauville, making it a convenient stop off on a Normandy Golf Tour. The resort style championship course, Le Vallon, is reminiscent of the great stadium courses of the United States, and while it is not as challenging as the Golf Barriere De Deauville layout, it is extremely enjoyable and perfect for the days where you are a little tired from the night before! At its peak, Le Vallon stretches to 6,638 yards, but it is relatively flat and certainly manageable for every golf holiday visitor.
For those looking to work on their game, or perhaps groups travelling with children and beginners; Saint-Julien’s Le Bocage nine-hole academy course simply ideal.
Twinned with the excellent Hotel Amiraute on the fringes of Deauville, Golf L’Amiraute is an excellent championship parkland layout. Those familiar with Le Golf National, which is set to host the 2018 Ryder Cup and frequently the host of the French Open, will recognise that the two courses have been designed by the same architect. Vast expanses of water and sand border the fairways and greens which, needless to say, calls for accuracy and course management rather than simplistic brute strength. Be sure to stock up on balls before you head out if you have the tendency to spray it around a bit! A unique feature of Amiraute is the course’s artistic accents. Each tee is marked not by the traditional wooden pegs, but by a distinctive statue!
What about accommodation?
The Hotel Amiraute is located on the outskirts of Deauville but it remains just a stone’s throw from bustling town centre, making it ideal for those who wish to relax and for others with a more adventurous side when the sun sets. While there are more established and grandiose hotels in Deauville, Amiraute has outstanding facilities for both business and leisure. For a golf break in France the town of Deauville has it all – first class golf, beautiful beaches and lively nightlife, and the Hotel Amiraute will provides an ideal base from which to sample it all.
Tennis and squash courts, as well as the outdoor swimming pools, are available for guests’ use, which makes this hotel the best option for golfing families.
This hotel is a landmark in Deauville, and is without doubt the best for groups of golfers. In addition to being surrounded by the 27-hole Golf Barriere De Deauville, the hotel occupies the most amazing location atop the cliff to the south of the town centre. From the bar and the restaurant you can gaze all the way down to the dramatic coastline, making it a great pace to enjoy a relaxing drink after a long day on the fairways. Hotel Du Golf Barriere is a true five star gem that is well known for its outstanding quality of accommodation, while also boasting a popular bar and clubhouse that golfers will simply adore.
If you want to experience a throwback to the Belle Epoque and all the grandeur that Deauville has to offer, then the sublime Normandy Hotel Barriere is the perfect choice. The hotel lies in the heart of the town, offering easy access to the beach, the bars, restaurants and casinos. An excellent spa and the most exquisite accommodation, as well as top class wining and dining are assured at this five star Normandy Hotel.
Is there anything to do away from the golf courses?
For those travelling in family groups or for those who wish to explore more of Normandy than just the pristine fairways of its golf courses, Deauville again comes to the fore.
Deauville, which adjoins Trouville-sur-Mer to form a famous coastal strip, has the glamour, charm and unique atmosphere to make your holiday memorable for more than just golf. The spectacular beach is an obvious draw, while the town itself is a joy to behold. Manicured gardens adjoin the beautiful streets, while at the shore; there are two colossal casinos that are sure to thrill those who enjoy a bit of a flutter.
All in all Deauville is an excellent option for anyone looking to jump on the Eurotunnel and sample the best that Northern France has to offer.
For more information on French Golf Holidays and other European Golf Breaks please visit www.yourgolftravel.com or call 0800 043 6644.
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