Kent golfers flocking to France to play at St Omer Golf Course
12:27, 22 October 2009
updated: 12:27, 22 October 2009
The holidaying golfer is spoilt for choice when it comes to breaks in France.
With more than 600 courses situated in every corner of the country, they guarantee you a unique and distinct setting wherever you play. Parkland, mountains, traditional, links, wooded or clifftop - there are courses to suit everybody’s taste.
St Omer has a long-established reputation as one of the finest courses in France.
The great thing about St Omer, pictured, is that it offers golf for all abilities. The forward tees provide an enjoyable game while even the European Tour pros find it tough off the very back.
It's a pretty, woodland course set over lush, rolling terrain and it offers great views. There are plenty of chances for the driver but be careful as you approach the greens as they are particularly well-guarded.
Annual hosts to the European Tour and now boasting a superior three-star hotel overlooking the 18th, Aa Saint Omer is definitely one of the highlights of golf in northern France.
Built in 1990, the Le Val championship course winds its way through some picturesque countryside and over lakes. Set on the banks of the River Aa, the club is among the most famous in France and the elevation of the Aa St Omer Open championship to the full European Tour has now put it firmly on the map.
Boasting a terrific championship track and a short academy course, there is something for every golfer at this outstanding destination, just a short drive from Calais. The undulating par-71 layout features a number of elevation changes that result in many shots being played 'blind' to the target. At just 6,845 yards, the course is modest in length by European Tour standards meaning that the driver will often take a back seat in favour of fairway metals, hybrids and long irons from the tee.
Opened in September 2008, the three-star Best Western Hotel Du Golf sits to the left of the ninth hole. The 54 rooms are ideal for golfers, with many overlooking the course, and are complete with all the amenities required for a comfortable stay.
St Omer is the most easily accessed of northern France's golfing delights - ideal for a short golf break. But don't take my word for it, check it out yourselves.
KM Group Sports Editor Mike Rees travelled across the Channel with P&0 Ferries. Contact 08716 645 645 or log on to www.poferries.com
St Omer Golf Club: +33 (0) 3 21 38 59 90
Hotel: www.book.bestwestern.com
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