Château des Vigiers Golf Course
Monestier, (near Bergerac) France
Donald Steel, considered to be one of the very best “natural” golf course architects, created the unique 18-hole, par 72 course in an enthralling setting amidst plum trees, oak woods, lakes and vineyards. Donald, who has contributed to many world-famous courses such as the Jubilee and Eden courses at St. Andrews as well as Chantilly in France, designed the course with the Château as its centrepiece; the 9th and 18th finishing off in front of the Château; and many of the other undulating greens with different perspectives of the Château. When asked by Golf World to name his favourite hole from his long career, Donald chose N° 18 at Château des Vigiers, with its dogleg over a ridge for the second shot over the lake on to the green, in front of the Château.
Château des Vigiers’ course is maintained as a holiday course with short rough, promoting quick play and accessibility for higher handicaps. However, the greens are frequently lightning fast and prove a test for any golfer. With strategic pin positions and longer rough, the course can be turned into a challenge for the best golfer. Indeed, member Per Ulrik Johansson (who played in the 1995 and 1997 Ryder Cup), took five years to get down from his initial score of 75 to 66, now the course record. He adds, “It is an interesting and enjoyable course with tough greens. There are a few really great holes and a lot of good ones.” Mats Lanner spends quite some time at Vigiers and enjoys playing with members and guests.
18 holes Par 72
g White 6073 m SSS:70.7 Slope: 116
g Yellow 5784 m SSS: 69.4 Slope: 115
g Blue 5305 m SSS: 72.3 Slope: 120
g Red 5064 m SSS: 70.7 Slope: 116
Facilities/Services: There is a six-hole academy course with 2 par 4s and 4 par 3s, which is ideal for beginners as well as training schools, 6 covered and 6 open-air driving ranges, a putting green, a chipping green and a practice bunker. The Chateau des Vigiers is an ideal place to begin or improve your game. Vincent Trojani, the resident Professional, is happy to give private lessons. Professionals from other clubs can come to Vigiers with their pupils and stay at the hotel for a week’s golf school.
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