The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, is famous for its glamorous coastline, luxurious resorts, and Mediterranean beauty. But beyond the glitz and glamour, it is also home to some of the most breathtaking golf courses in Europe. With stunning sea views, lush landscapes, and world-class course designs, these courses provide an unforgettable golfing experience. Here are the most scenic golf courses on the French Riviera that every golfer should play.
1️⃣ Terre Blanche Golf Club
Designer: Dave Thomas
Course Length: Le Château – 6,616 meters (7,235 yards)
Slope Rating: 145
Why It’s Stunning: Nestled in the rolling hills of Provence, just inland from the French Riviera, Terre Blanche Golf Club is known for its immaculate fairways and scenic beauty. With views of the Esterel Mountains and lush forests surrounding the course, it offers a serene and luxurious golfing experience.
Course Highlights: ✅ Two championship courses designed by Dave Thomas
✅ Breathtaking views of Provence and the Riviera countryside
✅ Eco-friendly course with state-of-the-art facilities
Best For: Golfers who want a luxurious and tranquil golf retreat.
2️⃣ Golf de Saint-Donat
Designer: Robert Trent Jones Jr.
Course Length: 6,031 meters (6,597 yards)
Slope Rating: 138
Why It’s Stunning: Located near Cannes, Golf de Saint-Donat is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of Mediterranean flora, rolling hills, and strategic course design. The layout features natural water hazards, picturesque fairways, and an abundance of scenic beauty.
Course Highlights: ✅ Lush vegetation and Mediterranean pine trees
✅ Scenic water features enhancing the visual appeal
✅ Well-maintained fairways and undulating greens
Best For: Golfers looking for a challenging yet picturesque round near Cannes.
3️⃣ Golf de Cannes-Mougins
Designer: Harry Colt & Tom Simpson
Course Length: 6,312 meters (6,904 yards)
Slope Rating: 140
Why It’s Stunning: One of the most prestigious golf courses on the Riviera, Golf de Cannes-Mougins boasts a stunning parkland setting, framed by centuries-old trees and natural streams. It has hosted numerous professional tournaments and remains one of the top-ranked courses in France.
Course Highlights: ✅ Historic course with a championship pedigree
✅ Stunning tree-lined fairways and rolling terrain
✅ Located just minutes from the glamour of Cannes
Best For: Golfers who want a high-end golf experience with a rich history.
4️⃣ Golf de Roquebrune Resort
Designer: Michel Gayon
Course Length: 5,874 meters (6,424 yards)
Slope Rating: 136
Why It’s Stunning: Perched between Saint-Raphaël and Sainte-Maxime, Golf de Roquebrune offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Maures mountains. Its elevated positioning provides stunning sunset views, making it one of the most scenic courses in the region.
Course Highlights: ✅ Unmatched Mediterranean Sea views from multiple holes
✅ A mix of hilly and flat terrain, adding variety to the game
✅ Luxury resort amenities for a complete golfing getaway
Best For: Golfers looking for a seaside golf experience with panoramic views.
5️⃣ Royal Mougins Golf Club
Designer: Robert von Hagge
Course Length: 6,004 meters (6,567 yards)
Slope Rating: 145
Why It’s Stunning: Royal Mougins is a prestigious private golf course, offering exclusivity and incredible scenery just a short drive from the Riviera coastline. With its undulating fairways, olive trees, and lakes, the course embodies the charm of the French Riviera.
Course Highlights: ✅ Private, elite course with impeccable maintenance
✅ Beautifully landscaped fairways and challenging greens
✅ Luxury clubhouse and spa for a full resort experience
Best For: Golfers who want a premium and exclusive golf experience.
6️⃣ Golf Riviera Barbossi
Designer: Robert Trent Jones Sr.
Course Length: 5,661 meters (6,194 yards)
Slope Rating: 134
Why It’s Stunning: Golf Riviera Barbossi, located in Mandelieu-la-Napoule, is a true hidden gem of the French Riviera. This course is unique in its artistic approach, featuring sculptures and artwork along the fairways, creating a visually engaging experience while you play. With its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea and backdrop of the Esterel Mountains, every hole offers a stunning view.
Course Highlights: ✅ The only golf course on the Riviera with an open-air sculpture park
✅ A mix of challenging holes, lush fairways, and well-placed bunkers
✅ Convenient location near Cannes and the coast
Best For: Golfers who want a combination of scenic beauty and artistic charm.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Play?
If you’re planning a golf trip on the French Riviera and want the best scenic experience, here’s a quick breakdown:
- For a championship-level luxury experience: → Terre Blanche Golf Club.
- For a picturesque yet affordable round: → Golf de Saint-Donat.
- For historic charm and professional-level play: → Golf de Cannes-Mougins.
- For dramatic sea views and stunning sunsets: → Golf de Roquebrune Resort.
- For exclusivity and top-tier luxury: → Royal Mougins Golf Club.
- For a mix of art and nature: → Golf Riviera Barbossi.
The French Riviera is more than just a glamorous holiday destination, it’s a golfer’s paradise. With its combination of coastal beauty, elegant landscapes, and world-class course designs, these courses guarantee a memorable golfing experience. Pack your clubs, soak in the Mediterranean sun, and enjoy some of the most scenic rounds of your life!