Make Your Own Ryder Cup History With Le Golf National Experience

Europe's dominant victory in the 2018 Ryder Cup at Le Golf National was an unforgettable sporting occasion to witness, showcasing the best in team competition across one of the most visually dramatic venues on the continent. Host of the Open de France for many years, the Albatross Course has become a must play for many golfers in search of the ultimate challenge, taking on the water hazards and thick rough, walking in the footsteps of those 24 players who contested the Samuel Ryder Trophy, all in the shadow of Paris.

Courtesy of the superb Novotel Saint Quentin en Yvelines Hotel, you can relive that event and etch your own memories on this grand stage by embarking on a spectacular golf break.

The Location

Situated around 40 minutes from the centre of Paris, Le Golf National is the ideal destination for those who wish to combine sightseeing with their golf and relaxation, walking the streets and sampling the culture found in one of the world's truly great cities, whether it be gazing at the Eiffel Tower, visiting the Louvre, or strolling down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées towards the Arc de Triomphe, the iconic structures within this metropolis are plentiful.

Even nearer to Le Golf National is the Palace of Versailles - listed as a World Heritage Site for 30 years - a breathtaking piece of architecture oozing with history.

Whatever path you take to reach Paris, whether it be car, train or plane, the allure of Le Golf National is waiting.

The Hotel

Overlooking the famed Albatross Course, Novotel Saint Quentin en Yvelines is a tranquil spot to unwind, featuring 131 modern rooms, divided between superior, executive, and suites, all of which are spacious and comfortable, boasting the amenities that you would anticipate to find inside a quality, contemporary hotel.

Within the complex are appetising dining options, notably the Fairplay Restaurant positioned by the golf course, or the signature Novotel Café, where you can enjoy a wide variety of cuisine, whether it be before or after your rounds, perfect for sharpening yourself up with nutrition for the day ahead, or when reflecting on all those shots - hopefully not too many - that you hit.

The Golf Courses

However, what you're here for is the golf, and my, is this something special. If you watched the Ryder Cup or have followed the European Tour's Open de France through the years, the Albatross Course at Le Golf National is instantly recognisible. But here's a reminder anyway. 

Designed by Hubert Chesneau and Robert Von Hagge, in collaboration with Pierre Thevenin, the course opened in 1990, and quickly drew the acclaim of the best players in the world. Retief Goosen, Colin Montgomerie, Martin Kaymer, Miguel Angel Jimenez, Graeme McDowell and Tommy Fleetwood are among the champions here. Just don't emulate Thomas Levet by leaping into the water on the 18th and breaking your leg.

But it was when Thomas Bjorn's incredible squad - highlighted by Francesco Molinari's partnership with Fleetwood - that the wider public appreciated Le Golf National. It's a thrilling course to play, difficult but invigorating. Hitting shots across the water on those closing holes is exhilarating and something that you won't forget in a hurry.

Additionally, the Aigle Course is considered to be a somewhat less punitive alternative, but is just as immaculately presented as the Albatross, and there is also the nine-hole L'Oiselet that is ideal for beginners and those looking for a calmer test.

There is a reason why Le Golf National is considered up there with the greatest in Europe, a modern classic, a Ryder Cup venue and regular stage for the European Tour, a destination that everyday golfers can make their own. 

Le Golf National Review

Overview

If you want to experience a golf break to an iconic destination, play a world-renowned course, and enjoy the best of hospitality in France, then Le Golf National and Novotel Saint Quentin en Yvelines is a combo to match Moliwood.

For more information and how to book, visit Golfbreaks.