35th Grand Prix de Valcros

Golf de Valcros

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France

Located in La Londe-les-Maures on the slopes of the Massif des Maures, Golf de Valcros is an 18-hole course set within a 50-hectare landscape of cork oak forests. Designed by the prominent architect F. Hawtree and inaugurated in 1964, the layout follows the course of the Maravenne stream and is characterized by fairways, bunkers, and greens surrounded by olive trees and oleanders. The course measures 5,283 meters with a par of 70, offering a layout that requires precision and technique rather than brute physical power. The design reflects Hawtree’s traditional approach, integrating the existing terrain and preserving the natural environment rather than altering it aggressively. A notable feature of the course is the fourth hole, which was historically recognized as the smallest par in the world before its extension in the 1990s. The course layout is structured to allow golfers to evaluate their skills in both power and accuracy, with the green speed recorded at 2.95 meters. Valcros has a rich history of competitive play, having hosted various tournaments including the Grand Prix de Valcros. The course record of 62, or eight strokes under par, is held by Baptiste Escaravajal and Matthieu Berti, who achieved this score during the 2019 Grand Prix. The club, which counts approximately 600 members, continues to host regular competitions, including the 17th Trophée Seniors de Valcros, maintaining its reputation as a venue for serious golf within the Mediterranean landscape.