Golf and Tennis Club Valescure: A Timeless Gem on the French Riviera
Golf Valescure: Experience Harry Colt's 1895 masterpiece! A strategic Par-68 gem on the French Riviera amidst historic pine forests.
The Golf & Tennis Club Valescure is one of the most traditional golf courses on the French Riviera – and at the same time, an impressive example of how timeless, sophisticated design works even without extreme length. Located in Saint-Raphaël, the club has welcomed golfers from all over the world since 1895. What once began with nine holes was expanded to 18 holes in the early 20th century by none other than Harry Colt – a name that still stands for strategically designed, world-class architecture today.
Its history alone gives the course a special aura: once a social hub for the European elite, the course is now firmly established among the top regional golf courses. Play-wise, the Par-68 course, with a maximum length of 5,019 meters, initially appears moderate, but this impression is deceiving. Narrow fairways framed by tall pines, numerous bunkers, and small, firm greens demand precise course management.
Here you will find many more travel reports from the most beautiful golf courses in the world.
Strategic Play in the Pine Forest
Characteristic of Valescure is its varied topography with slight elevation changes, which complicate distance control. Short Par-4 holes invite aggressive play but consistently punish inaccurate tee shots. While the course's only Par-5 is reachable for long hitters, it demands a wise decision given the lateral water hazard directly in front of the green.
A highlight – literally – is hole 7: a short Par-3 that is spectacularly played over a busy road. A high protective fence here forces a precise, high tee shot. The course remains challenging on the back nine as well: the tenth hole, a long dogleg right, is considered the most difficult hole on the course.
Brandname
Title will go here and can run on two lines
Brandname
Title will go here and can run on two lines
Harry Colt's Signature
Typical of Colt is the necessity to think through each hole tactically. Whether fade or draw, defensive or aggressive – almost every fairway offers multiple options, but only the correct decision is rewarded. The greens, in particular, demand utmost attention: they are firm, fast, and often subtly undulated, making them reliably playable only with controlled spin.
More Than Just a Round of Golf
In addition to the golf course, Valescure offers ten tennis courts and has been managed by the renowned operating company UGolf Bluegreen since 2024. The inviting club restaurant and the adjoining four-star hotel make the facility an ideal destination for a longer stay. Valescure is a must for lovers of classic golf architecture who prioritize precision over sheer distance.
Brandname
Title will go here and can run on two lines
Brandname
Title will go here and can run on two lines
Brandname
Title will go here and can run on two lines
Brandname
Title will go here and can run on two lines
Brandname
Title will go here and can run on two lines
Brandname
Title will go here and can run on two lines
Brandname
Title will go here and can run on two lines
Brandname
Title will go here and can run on two lines
Release date
16 May 2026
photos
Narrow fairways and small, firm greens demand precise course management at the Golf and Tennis Club Valescure. (Photo: Michael Althoff)
Almost every fairway offers several strategic options - but only the right one is rewarded. (Photos: Michael Althoff)
