Cannes, the Beverly Hills of France, is located in the heart of the French Riviera. The Mediterranean shoreline is lined with fine dining, extravagant shopping and beautiful beaches. While the city is best known for the Cannes Film Festival, the tourist destination features several world renowned courses all within a short drive from the city center.

While researching the local courses, I found the best information from my hotel's concierge desk. The Carlton Hotel provided their own brochure outlining the eight area courses. Glossing through the pamphlet, I immediately noticed the various type of courses. The area's terrain allowed for a wide variety of course types, from parkland style courses along the water to mountain golf with steep elevation changes and breath taking views. Since I only had two days to play, I wanted to golf the top courses. The concierge recommended these two courses as "absolute must plays."

Old Course Cannes-Mandelieu
The "Old Course", founded in 1891 by Grand-Duke Michael of Russia, is one of the oldest golf courses in France. The parkland style course weaves through the north end of Cannes into the city of Mandelieu and along the Mediterranean shoreline. At 5745 meters, 6282 yards, the course requires tactical placement rather than distance. Most holes are lined with mature long needled pine trees.

The course crosses over the Siagne River and golfers will enjoy a small ferry ride between several holes.

Weekday Rate: 120 Euros

Golf Old Course Cannes-Mandelieu Route du Golf 06210 Mandelieu-La Napoule Phone: +33(0)4 92 97 32 00

Golf Country Club de Cannes-Mougins
The world rounded course stretches through the rolling countryside of the Valmasque forest. The parkland style course opened in 1923 and rebuilt in 1997 by golf architects Peter Allis and Dave Thomas. For 14 years, the Golf Country Club de Cannes hosted the Cannes Open, the highlight of the European Tour.

Weekday Rate: 120 Euros

The Golf Country Club de Cannes-Mougins 175 avenue du Golf 06250 Moungins Phone : +33(0)4 93 75 79 13

Other Area Courses

Royal Mougins Golf Resort 424, avenue du Roi 06250 Mougins Phone: +33(0)4 92 92 49 69

Golf d'Opio Valbonne 2195 rte de Roquefort les Pins 06650 Opio Phone: +33(0)4 93 12 00 08

Golf de Saint Donat 270 route de Cannes 06130 GRASSE Phone: +33(0)4 93 09 76 60

Monte-Carlo Golf Club Route du Mont Agel 06320 LA TURBIE Phone: +33(0)4 92 41 50 70

Golf de Biot 1379 Route d'Antibes 06410 Biot, France Phone: +33(0)4 93 65 08 48