The French Riviera is world-renowned for its Mediterranean coastline, luxury hotels, festivals, and lifestyle. But beyond its beaches and perched villages, the region is also a popular playground for golf enthusiasts. Between the sea and mountains as a backdrop, you’ll find golf courses of rare beauty, sometimes designed by renowned architects.
Thanks to a mild climate year-round, the PACA region is one of the few places in France where you can play outdoor golf even in winter. But it’s between April and October, when nature is at its most colorful and temperatures range between 68 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit, that the golf courses of the French Riviera reveal all their splendor.
Whether you’re a beginner golfer, an experienced player, or a luxury golf getaway enthusiast, you’re sure to find your perfect match on the French Riviera. Here’s our selection of the best golf courses on the French Riviera not to be missed!
The Best Golf Courses on the French Riviera
The French Riviera offers an idyllic setting to play golf on courses as varied as they are exceptional; here are the ones we recommend during your stay:
The Cannes-Mougins Golf Club
Located in the wooded valley of Mougins, this historic club founded in 1923 is a must-play golf destination on the French Riviera. Nestled in the heart of the Valmasque forest, this 18-hole course (par 72) combines technique, elegance, and preserved nature. Designed by architects Peter Alliss and Dave Thomas, the course alternates water hazards, strategic bunkers, and well-maintained greens.
The club has hosted the Cannes Open several times, making it a prestigious address, not to mention its refined clubhouse, gourmet restaurant, and modern driving range that make the experience unforgettable.
The Royal Mougins Golf Club
Just 10 minutes from Cannes, the Royal Mougins Golf Club is one of the most upscale references in the region.
This private golf club, reserved for its members and guests of its 4-star hotel, offers a very technical 18-hole course designed by Robert von Hagge.
Surrounded by olive trees, lakes, and gentle slopes, it offers a luxurious and calm experience in a typical Provençal setting.
The spa and infinity pool are major assets for golfers seeking absolute comfort.
The Saint Donat Golf Club
In Grasse, the perfume capital, this 18-hole golf course is set on a former family estate. Created by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the course is varied, challenging, and shaded, making it pleasant even in summer. The Golf de Saint Donat is appealing for its well-maintained fairways, natural obstacles, and undulating greens. The atmosphere is friendly, and the 24-bay driving range allows for practice at any time of day. The terrace restaurant offers a simple and tasty Provençal menu.
The Golf De La Grande Bastide
Located in Châteauneuf-Grasse, this 18-hole course designed by Cabell Robinson is ideal for golfers of all levels. With its wide and open fairways, numerous water features, and well-placed bunkers, it’s truly enjoyable to play at Golf de la Grande Bastide.
The view of the hills of the Nice hinterland is magnificent, especially at dawn. Easy to access, affordable, and well-maintained, it’s an excellent choice for a round with friends or a first experience on a French Riviera golf course.
The Opio-Valbonne Golf Club
One of the oldest golf courses in the region, this hilly 18-hole course was also designed on a 220-hectare estate, among century-old oak trees and natural streams. It is appreciated for its peaceful setting, history, and variety of play.
Note: The establishment has a restaurant with a panoramic terrace. A perfect place to combine sport, relaxation, and discovery of local cuisine.
Special Mention to the Swedish Golf Club of the French Riviera
Less known to the general public, the Swedish Golf Club French Riviera (Svenska Rivieraklubben) is a private club created by Nordic expatriates settled in the region. It doesn’t have its own course, but the organizers offer enthusiasts meetings and tournaments at various golf courses on the French Riviera (notably in Valbonne, Saint Donat or Cannes-Mougins).
Its uniqueness lies in its friendliness, cultural events, and its roots in the Swedish and Scandinavian community of the region. It’s an interesting option for foreign golfers who wish to meet other enthusiasts while discovering the best golf courses of the French Riviera.
Is the French Riviera Really a Golfer's Paradise?
The answer is a resounding yes: the French Riviera is a golfer’s paradise. With over 30 courses between sea and mountains, a sunny climate for more than 300 days a year, and high-end infrastructures, the French Riviera stands out as one of the best golfing destinations in Europe. From prestigious private clubs to more accessible courses, everyone can find a course suited to their level and preferences.
Whether you’re on holiday in Cannes, Nice or in the backcountry, there’s always a golf course just a few kilometers away. And that’s not all: the golf courses of the French Riviera are often located near vineyards, charming villages, Michelin-starred restaurants or fine sandy beaches, making each round an exceptional moment to be fully enjoyed.
So, whether you’re a passionate golfer or simply curious about trying a new activity, don’t hesitate any longer: the French Riviera awaits you, club in hand. In conclusion, if you wish to play a round during your stay in the region, we offer a wide range of accommodations available on the French Riviera, all with just one click, take advantage of it now!