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Around 60 miles from Paris in the northeast of France, is the historical province of Champagne-Ardenne, best known for its production of the world’s most famous sparkling wine. But it’s not just the grape that reigns supreme here—there’s “golf among the grapes” —with a collection of challenging and affordable courses for players of all abilities and some beautiful stately homes and chateaus to spend the night. These three elements of the “good life” that compliment each other can provide a strong focus for visiting the region: enjoy a few rounds of golf, taste the champagne and stay in luxury.


GOLF AMONG THE GRAPES There are several courses to play in this


up-and-coming golf area of France. Get pro- ceedings underway at arguably the pick of the bunch by teeing off at Golf de Reims situated just west of Reims, in the middle of the famous vineyards. This picturesque, gently undulating 18-hole woodland course provides an attrac- tive mix of tight tree-lined fairways and large elevated well-guarded greens in the beauti- ful backdrop of the 15th century Chateau des Dames, surrounded by a moat. Founded back in 1928 by the Reims and Épernay Champagne houses, the par-72 course, which was originally a 9-hole lay- out, was later extended to 18 holes by Michael Fenn in 1973. To avoid the numerous trees that come into play, it is important to plot a strategic route around the course and it’s not unusual on any given day to hear more sounds of golf balls hitting timber than woodpeckers during nesting season. At each teeing ground


the various Champagne Houses such as Moet & Chandon, Louis Roederer,


Château and 18th fl agstick at Golf de Troyes-la Cordelière


Laurent Perrier and Mumm advertise their produce, whetting the appetite for a fl ute or


SUMMER 2011 / NCGA.ORG / 53


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