Just north of Lille and handy for the hop into Belgium, Golf & Country Club de Palingbeek is a nice little par-72 that's well worth a detour if you're routing via Brussels or Bruges. It's not long on the card, a shade over the 6,000-yard mark from the back tees depending on tee set-up, so it's not a brute. But you'll score far better by plotting your way around than by trying to overpower it.
The layout sits in rolling countryside close to the Belgian border, making it an ideal stop for groups heading to or from Brussels, Bruges or the southern Belgian golf belt. Expect tree-lined fairways, greens that are well defended, and a few water hazards that keep you honest. It's the sort of course where a 3-wood and a sensible line can beat driver-and-hope every time. When the greens are running well they can be deceptively quick, and the bunkering is placed to punish wayward approaches rather than simply frame the holes.
Off the course, there's a relaxed clubhouse for a post-round drink and a bite to eat, ideal for a bit of post-round analysis or a quiet beer before heading on. The practice facilities give you enough to loosen up before your round or work on specific shots if you've got time to spare.
Who is this for?
Anyone building a northern France or Belgium itinerary who wants a quality round without faffing about with long transfers. It's great for societies and mixed-ability groups who appreciate a well-kept course with a friendly welcome and solid facilities.
Who is this best for?
Players who like positional parkland golf and don't mind leaving driver in the bag when the hole calls for it. Mid-to-low handicappers who enjoy strategic, tree-lined layouts and appreciate a course that demands accuracy over length will get the most out of it, but there's enough variety here to keep everyone interested.
