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Between the Vendée and the Loire-Atlantique, many quality golf courses are combined with charming hotels to offer unforgettable golf stays. In this article, we take you to discover 6 unmissable golf courses on the Atlantic coast and their best accommodation options to combine sport, relaxation and discovery.
The Atlantic coast, with its maritime landscapes, pine forests and rich cultural heritage, is a dream destination for golf enthusiasts in search of escape.
1 - Saint-Jean-de-Monts golf course: the elegance of a links on the ocean’s edge
Located in the Vendée, between beach and forest, the Golf of Saint-Jean-de-Monts is one of the most beautiful courses on the Atlantic coast. This 18 holes par 72, designed by Yves Bureau, alternates sensations: the first 9 holes are played in the shade of pine trees, while the last 9 offer a breathtaking view of the ocean and the island of Yeu. The marine influence brings the game to life, changing with the winds.
Where to sleep?
Hôtel Valdys****: a beachfront establishment with thalassotherapy center, ideal for recharging after a game.
2 - Golf de Guérande: between salt marshes and medieval charm
The Golf de Guérande seduces with its typical environment of the marshes of the Guérande peninsula. This 18-hole course, accessible and well maintained, offers a technical game in a peaceful setting. Close to the medieval city of Guérande, it also offers an excellent starting point to explore the surroundings.
Recommended accommodation:
Domaine du Kelenn: the Domaine du Kelenn is an old farmhouse from the 19th century renovated into a charming bed and breakfast.
You will enjoy the intimate setting of the house as well as its table d'hôtes after a good day in the open air.
Hotel Saint-Christophe**** : just a stone’s throw from the legendary beach of La Baule, the Hôtel Saint-Christophe has managed to preserve all its authenticity, within one of the most pleasant areas of the seaside resort. La Table du Saint-Christophe (selected by Gault & Millau and Assiette Michelin) is a well-known address of the Baulois, who appreciate its peaceful atmosphere, its enchanting setting and the gourmet creations of the Chef.
3 - Golf de Pornic: tradition and requirement
One of the oldest courses on the Atlantic coast, the Golf de Pornic has been redesigned by Michel Gayon to become a demanding 18-hole course with a wooded and hilly layout. It is a golf course prized all year round for its quality and friendly atmosphere.
Partner accommodations:
Hotel de la Plage***: located in front of the beach of Monsieur Hulot in Saint-Marc-sur-Mer, between Saint-Nazaire and Pornichet, the Best Western Hotel de la Plage welcomes you for a seaside stay.
Best Western Hôtel de la Cité & Spa***: located in Guérande, this contemporary hotel is a 10-minute walk from the medieval city. It offers many services, such as a heated outdoor pool and a 100 m2 spa dedicated to relaxation.
Le Mauritia***: la rilassante cornice di Pornic e la spa rendono il Mauritia un hotel a 3 stelle dove è piacevole soggiornare per brevi o lunghi periodi. Il piccolo extra: l'hotel si trova a 500 m dal Golf di Pornic e a 2 km dal centro città.
4 - Bourgenay Golf Club: marine panorama and wooded course
Designed by the architect Béto Périgueux, the Bourgenay Golf Club (Talmont-Saint-Hilaire) is a varied 18-hole course that winds between pine trees, ponds and the coastline. A more accessible 9-hole course completes the offer. All just steps from the beaches of Vendée.
Where to stay?
Ibis Styles Les Sables-d'Olonne***: for modern comfort at a low price. Easy and quick access to the main roads.
Côte Ouest Hôtel Thalasso & Spa***: nestled inside a pine forest and open 180° on the sea, it offers a unique experience: boarding for a dream break aboard a Liner, journey through time guaranteed with a 1930s atmosphere & a charming decor borrowed from the most beautiful cruises of the era...
5 - Golf des Sables-d'Olonne: modernity and pleasure of the game
A few minutes from the city center of Les Sables-d'Olonne, the 18-hole golf course of Les Sables-d'Olonne offers a balanced layout, accessible to players of all levels. It benefits from modern facilities and a green setting conducive to relaxation.
Nearby accommodations:
Hotel Vertime Les Sables****: elegant and well located, facing the ocean.
Residence Les Océanes***: ideal for family or friends, close to the golf course. Ideally located a few steps from the embankment of Les Sables d'Olonne, the beach and the Marina, the residence guarantees comfort, tranquility and quality of life.
6 - Golf de La Presqu'île : authenticity and wild nature
Located between dunes, pine forests and marshes, the Golf de la Presqu'île is a 9-hole course very appreciated for its authenticity. It is a peaceful place, perfect for golfers who seek an unspoilt natural setting.
Where to sleep?
Les Dunes Hotel Spa***: relaxation guaranteed after a day on the green. Located in a quiet and facing the ocean, it is only a few steps from the city center and shops.
Domaine de la Presqu'île****: the Domaine de la Presqu'île offers vacation rentals, type cottages with 2 or 3 bedrooms as well as traditional holiday homes, in a residential area of leisure and services in the immediate vicinity of the sea and beaches.
Golfers staying in the region will have every opportunity to enjoy the surrounding treasures, whether to extend the experience or satisfy the accompanying non-golfers.
Nature lovers can indulge in many outdoor activities. The region is crisscrossed with perfectly equipped cycle paths, notably the Vélodyssée, which runs along the coastline. On foot or by bike, it is possible to cross pine forests, salt marshes and coastal paths with unique panoramas. The protected natural areas, particularly around Guérande or on the island of Yeu, offer exceptional ornithological observations and total immersion in the Atlantic landscapes.
As for heritage, the region is full of emblematic cultural sites. The medieval city of Guérande, with its ramparts, cobbled streets and artisans, is absolutely worth a visit. The castle of Talmont, near the Golf de Bourgenay, or the abbey of Saint-Jean-d'Orbestier, in Les Sables-d'Olonne, illustrate the rich historical past of the region. Without forgetting Pornic, whose old port, the small coves and the coastal path offer a romantic and refreshing walk.
The local gastronomy is also an essential component of the stay. Between the typical producer markets, oyster and seafood tastings by the sea, or regional specialties such as lamogette (a small white bean traditionally cooked with garlic and served as a side dish, often with Vendée ham) or the prefoo (a warm bread garnished with a mixture of garlic and butter, served as an aperitif), each stage of the stay can be transformed into a culinary discovery.
Finally, for a moment of relaxation after a part or a day of excursion, the region offers many thalassotherapy and Spa establishments, notably in Saint-Jean-de-Monts, Pornic or Bourgenay. These wellness centers allow you to fully relax with marine treatments, whirlpools facing the ocean and targeted massages.
Photo credit Alexandre Lamoureux
The diversity of courses (18 or 9 holes, links or wooded), the quality of hotel facilities, the sweetness of life and the wealth of tourism make the Atlantic coast an essential golfing destination. Whether you are an experienced golfer or amateur in search of discovery, you will find here a perfect balance between sport, relaxation and exploration.