We are extremely fortunate to sit at the centre of a triangle offering the choice of three excellent golf courses, each offering a unique experience.
Large, swish, very international (but reflecting the Scandinavian roots of its founder, Lars Petersson), with a range of facilities and fine dining options is Chateau des Vigiers.
Offering a more intimate, family-run ambience is Chateau les Merles where its Dutch founders have combined contemporary chic with traditional French in both the chateau hotel and dining room. The golf course is compact and challenging.
Sat midway between the two is Villeneuve-sur-Lot Golf and Country Club – where the focus is perhaps on its excellent golf course, and perhaps less so on its hospitality facilities.
Chateau des Vigiers
Lacanaud in only 15 minutes drive from Chateau des Vigiers. Château des Vigiers forms the centre-piece of a spectacular 27-hole golf course. The course opened in 1992 and was designed by Donald Steel, who is considered one of the very best “natural” golf course architects. Arranged in three 9-hole loops, giving three 18-hole combinations, the golf course was rated in the top ten courses in South West France. Other golf facilities include a 6-hole academy course, a covered driving range, practice greens and bunkers as well as resident golf Professionals.
Restaurant “Les Fresques” is situated in the 16th Century château. Head Chef, Didier Casaguana was held a Michelin star since 2014. “Les Fresques” offers a sophisticated and sumptuous dining experience, complemented by an extensive wine list. Open every evening except Sunday and Wednesday.
For those in search of something more relaxed, Brasserie “Le Chai” is set in the old wine-making building and offers a more informal dining experience, also serving lighter meals and snacks. The terrace enjoys stunning views over the golf course, chateau and lake.
More info at Chateau de Vigiers
Chateau Les Merles
Only 40 mins away is the Dutch-run Chateau Les Merles. It has a challenging 9 hole golf course through some stunning, quiet countryside, a covered driving range and putting green situated amongst the Bergerac vineyards and within walking distance of the Dordogne river. A PGA qualified instructor is available for those in need of brushing up.
Their Restaurant and Bistro are home to great creative and contemporary cuisine with a wide selection of Bergerac wines available. It is open 7 days a week, for breakfast , lunch and dinner.
More info at Chateau les Merles
Villeneuve-sur-Lot Golf and Country Club
- An 18 hole course
- A practice range with 6 covered mats and 8 outside
- 2 putting greens, one with a bunker
Villeneuve-sur-Lot Golf and Country Club is located at Castelnaud-de-Gratecombe, 35 mins away, and is a fantastic golf course over an undulating course maintained to an excellent standard.
It was designed by the architect R Berthet, and opened in 1987. It is an undulating 18 hole par 72 layout of 6109 metres with plum trees and orchards bordering many holes, a typically beautiful Lot et Garonne landscape.
It is renowned as one of the best courses in Aquitaine. The course is in the heart of the countryside with holes of different character giving it immense charm.
Going out, there are water hazards at 5 holes. Coming back, some holes climb to a high green, others descend. The course is suitable for players of all levels. During certain months of the year, you may help yourself to apples and prunes from the orchards which border the course. There are many lovely views with the best at holes 4 and 8.
More info at Villeneuve-sur-Lot Golf & Country Club