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Between golf courses and Loire castles

26th April 2024 543

With its renowned vineyards, iconic châteaux and winding rivers, this region of north-west France offers an idyllic setting for golf enthusiasts looking for an escape and an exciting challenge.

Spanning an area rich in history and natural diversity, the Anjou Val de Loire is home to an exquisite selection of golf courses, from fairways stretching through vineyards to technical challenges on the banks of the majestic Loire. Offering breathtaking panoramas and unforgettable playing sensations, you'll find courses to match your expectations! But the appeal of the Anjou Val de Loire is not limited to its golf courses. The region abounds in cultural treasures, with castles and historic residences that bear witness to its glorious past.

Between rounds, visitors can immerse themselves in the enchanting atmosphere of picturesque villages, savour fine local cuisine and explore vineyards renowned for their exceptional wines. Whether you're looking for a relaxing family golfing break, a romantic getaway for golf enthusiasts or a unique travel experience combining sport and culture, the Anjou Val de Loire promises an unforgettable experience for all lovers of the little white ball. Get ready for unforgettable moments of play in an enchanting setting where tradition and elegance combine with a passion for golf.


Discover 3 Golfy Network golf courses to try out the greens in this destination!

Just ten minutes from Poitiers city centre, the Mignaloux golf course offers everything a white-ball enthusiast could wish for. Reworked in 2023 to make hole 18 the highlight of the course, so that golfers can leave on a high note, the course design has the unusual feature of returning to the club house four times on holes 4, 9, 12 and 18. This is the perfect opportunity to hit a few more shots. Superbly covered by vegetation, such as the American red oaks on hole 11, the golf course is photogenic - and therefore pleasant to play - whatever the season. Its wide fairways are welcoming, but the greens require a certain amount of care as they are very well defended by numerous bunkers and water hazards. The course's unique physiognomy guarantees visual pleasure, comfort and a sporting challenge to make it a memorable one.​

Golf d'Anjou has taken root on the farmland that once belonged to Roland Paulze d'Ivoy de La Poype, a man of many facets. A former fighter pilot, industrialist and enthusiast, in 1989 he entrusted Fred Hawtree with the design of his course, preserving most of the estate's trees - offering a picturesque view in autumn - and surrounding its fairways with magnificent ponds. Between the dense forests and the water features, such as the one on hole 13, it's easy to stay focused in this sumptuous setting. This course, like its creator, has always known how to defend itself.
Anjou Golf & Country Club, rooted in the history of a family descended from Count Roland de La Poype, attracts many golfers every year with its history, lush vegetation and technical layout. Designed by renowned architect Frederic Hawtree, this 18-hole course features formidable obstacles such as water hazards and bunkers, and requires a mastery of trajectories to score well. It's an ideal course for perfecting your game and putting your skills to the test.​

Located in Baugé, Golf de Baugé offers an 18-hole course surrounded by lush greenery. Designed by Alain Prat, the course was reduced to 18 holes with three practice holes after the Japanese investors left. In 2017, Denis Millerand and Geoffrey Gabiller saved the club, preserving jobs and restoring its reputation. The course, surrounded by trees and hills, offers a varied experience for golfers. The clubhouse, housed in former stables, has a charming atmosphere. The golf course at Baugé is renowned for the quality of its greens, offering golfers the chance to achieve impressive scores. Imposing relief and a succession of holes offer stimulating challenges for golfers of all levels.


After a day on the greens, discover the art of living in this golfing destination...

The Châteaux of the Loire: a journey through time

Chambord Castle
Chambord Castle
Chenonceau Castle
Chenonceau Castle
Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud / ©Sebastien_GAUDARD
Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud / ©Sebastien_GAUDARD

The Loire Valley is dotted with majestic châteaux, witnesses to a bygone era and symbols of French grandeur. These UNESCO World Heritage sites take visitors on a journey back in time.

Not to be missed is Chambord, the largest château in France, with 443 rooms and a revolutionary double staircase. Chenonceau, nicknamed the ‘Château des Dames’, boasts elegant architecture and a unique location on the Cher. And don't forget Amboise, perched on a rocky spur, offering spectacular panoramic views over the valley and home to Leonardo da Vinci's last residence.

But there's much more to the Loire than its famous names. Explore the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, a historical treasure trove housing the tombs of such illustrious figures as Eleanor of Aquitaine and Richard the Lionheart. Transformed into a cultural centre, the abbey offers authentic stays at the 4* Hotel and a star-studded gastronomic experience at Thibaut Ruggeri's Restaurant.

Gastronomy: wines and local flavours

The Loire Valley region, land of history and flavors, promises a unique culinary journey. Iconic wines like Saumur and Savennières captivate with their nuances, while Cabernet Franc reds like Bourgueil and Chinon seduce with their subtle fruitiness. Crémants de Loire offer a sparkling touch perfect for any occasion. In terms of cuisine, foie gras and rillettes embody the local delicacy, followed by sarayon de Tours for a sweet touch. Accompanied by characterful cheeses and fresh local produce, each meal becomes a delicious experience.

Events: The equestrian art of the Cadre Noir de Saumur

Experience French equestrian art with the Cadre Noir de Saumur shows. Events throughout the year highlight the excellence of traditional French horse riding. Attend unforgettable shows such as the Printemps des Écuyers and the Musicales du Cadre Noir, testimonies of the passion for horses and their history.

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