Rating 3.5/5
Golf d’Arras
Arras Golf Club, in France’s northern Pas-de-Calais region, is just an hour’s drive from the Eurotunnel terminal exit near Calais. On ten consecutive occasions between 1999 and 2009, this parkland track held the Ladies French Open, which shortly after, moved onto the Paris International Golf Club in northern Paris.
Located in the Starke valley, this course really is a tale of two halves, with the front nine providing a stark contrast to the back nine holes. Running through what is termed as marshland, the first nine holes are typified by an abundance of water and tough approach shots. The 2nd hole has water all along the right hand side as well as over the back of the green so attack with caution! The 6th is a fun hole with an elevated tee leading down to a wide fairway. From here there is another accurate approach shot needed to avoid the right-side water hazard.
The back nine couldn’t be more different, with barely any water in play but much more undulating and with numerous dog legs. Highlights include the 13th which is a severe downhill dog-leg from left to right and the final hole, a long Par 5 just short of 600 yards. Making sure you pick your position is key as you may find your second shot obstructed by a line of trees. There is then still some way to go to reach the protected green.
The clubhouse called l’Infini, was completely redeveloped in 2010 and now boasts a lively sports bar fully fitted with multiple screens showing live sports and a good choice of beers on tap. Around the outside of the bar looking out onto the course, is an exceptional restaurant serving first-class French specials.
To conclude, this is a good golf club with a decent course and a fine clubhouse. There is also a 9-hole course onsite called ‘Les Aubépines’, perfect for beginners or when adding an extra 9-holes after lunch!
Detail
- Designer: Jean Claude Cornillot
- 18 holes
- Par 72
- Length: 6,117 metres (6,690 yards)
- Slope 137
- Golf club website: http://www.arras-golf-resort.com/
- Phone number: 03 21 50 24 24
- Public
- Address: Rue Briquet Taillandier, 62223 – Anzin Saint Aubin
