Famous the world over, the Loire Valley with its magnificent golf chateau courses is the third most visited region in France, just after Paris and the Cote d'Azur. Tours is now only one hour from Paris by high-speed TGV.

It is cheaper to play in France than on any of the top British courses. The money that you save on your green fees can pay for you to stay a golf chateau.

France has only 280,000 registered golfers for 340 courses. This means lots of available tee times and no crowds on a course. Most guests just roll on up to the pro shop and take a choice from many available tee times.

Amongst historic chateaux, wine cellars, food specialities, son et lumiere (laser fireworks shows) are a selection of reputed golf courses: Les Bordes, Chateau Sept Tours, Ardree & Touraine, Cheverny, Orleans Donnery, Les Aisses, Sully-sur-Loire, Limere, Ganay.

The peacefulness and scenery in the Loire Valley make a golfing vacation a truly relaxing experience. You can add to the enjoyment of your holiday exploring the legendary Loire Valley by staying at one or more of the romantic castles available.

This Father’s Day, why not treat your Dad to a holiday where he can tee off at the luxurious golf chateau courses of the Loire Valley.

Whether he sees himself as the next Tiger Woods or simply enjoys the sport, he is sure to appreciate the resort
facilities and perfectly manicured 18-hole championship golf course set in dramatic natural beauty and boasting exquisite views. He will be able to enjoy his scenic golf in an unhurried manner.

The Les Bordes Resort not far from Chateau Chambord is undoubtedly the most remarkable of all the resorts in terms of exclusivity and quality challenging golf. It was designed as a golfing Valhalla for Bic ballpoint millionaire, Baron Bich by Robert Von Hagge see Seignosse. It has been named the best course in Europe by the Peugeot Golf Guide.

Les Bordes is consistently ranked amongst the top 100 courses in Europe and one of France's top 5. Water features on 12 of the 18 holes on this course and it really is a challenge even for low handicappers.

Each of the 18 holes would qualify as a signature hole on most courses.

The course was created 20 years ago on part of the late Baron Bich's hunting esate in the heart of the ancient Sologne forest. It was designed with an unlimited budget. No expense was spared. A series of massive lakes was created and the millions of tones of displaced soil from the lakes were used to create the raised fairways twelve of which wrap around the water.

The best round ever played was by French professional Jean Van de Velde who went around in 71 shots. Expect to enjoy this spectacular course, but scoring well may prove to be more difficult.