Golf might not be the first activity that comes to mind when you think of Chamonix, but with Mont Blanc towering above the fairways, it’s one of the most spectacular places in the Alps to play a round.

The 18-hole course in Chamonix was designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Sr. and sits between the Mont Blanc massif and the Aiguilles Rouges, at the foot of the iconic Drus. The setting alone makes it memorable, but the course itself is equally respected for its thoughtful layout and mountain character.

For experienced golfers, the name Robert Trent Jones Sr. needs little introduction. Over a career spanning more than 70 years, he designed more than 400 courses in 35 countries, shaping modern golf course architecture as we know it today. Playing his work in Chamonix offers a rare chance to combine world-class course design with an exceptional alpine landscape, with another of his courses located just over the border in Geneva.

Read on to discover more about golf in Chamonix and the region’s long-standing golfing heritage in the northern Alps.

Golf in Chamonix

Chamonix Golf Club | 35 route du Golf, Les Praz, 74400 Chamonix Mont-Blanc

www.golfdechamonix.com | +33(0)4 50 53 06 28

The Chamonix golf course is a high-quality facility located in the village of Les Praz, just outside the town centre. Its story dates back to 1934, when the original four holes were created to serve a local population of around 4,500 residents. Following early success, the course was expanded and officially reopened on 20 July 1935 with nine completed holes.

The outbreak of World War II soon interrupted its development. From 1939, as resistance fighters were forced higher into the mountains, access to the course was restricted. During this period, it was used exclusively by Nazi officers stationed at the Majestic Hotel in central Chamonix.

The surrounding mountains became the setting for intense fighting during the final stages of the war. One notable event was the battle of the Col du Midi at 3,532 metres in February 1945, where artillery fire and aerial bombardment were used to seize the position. Resistance fighter François Baz was killed during these operations. Chamonix was liberated on 17 August 1945, marking the end of the occupation.

It wasn’t until 1972 that the local council committed to expanding the course once more. A further nine holes were added, and on 26 September 1982 the course was officially relaunched as the Chamonix Golf Club following redesign work by Robert Trent Jones Sr.. The result was an 18-hole, par-72 course that remains in use today.

Private lessons and week-long courses, including English-speaking instruction, are available for players of all levels. The practice area typically opens from April, operating daily from 9am to 6pm, with the main course opening between late April and early May depending on snow conditions.

Golf near Chamonix (within an hour’s drive)

Once you’ve experienced golf in Chamonix, there are several excellent courses within easy reach of the valley. Nearby destinations such as Courmayeur and Megève are both under an hour away and make easy day trips, combining high-quality golf with scenic forest walks, mountain views and some of the Alps’ best shopping.

Geneva is another popular option for a golf day trip. Rich in history and set on the shores of Lake Geneva, the city offers a mix of lakeside walks, restaurants and luxury boutiques, alongside a strong selection of well-regarded golf clubs in the surrounding area.

All of these destinations can be reached in around an hour by car from Chamonix, making it easy to broaden your golfing experience while staying in the valley.

Golf in Geneva

Golf Club of Geneva | Route de la Capite 70, 1223 Cologny, Switzerland

www.golfgeneve.ch | +41 22 707 48 00

Founded in 1921, the Golf Club of Geneva is located in the commune of Vandoeuvres, on the heights above Cologny. In 1973, the course was redesigned by Robert Trent Jones Sr., enhancing its layout within the parkland setting of Bessinge.

From the opening hole, players enjoy views over the city of Geneva and Lake Geneva, including the iconic Jet d’eau. The southern side of the course offers equally impressive views towards Mont Blanc and the Alps, making it one of the most scenic golf courses in the region.

The club is private but welcomes visiting golfers by prior arrangement. It is located around 10 minutes from central Geneva and approximately 30 minutes from Geneva Airport. Visitors are advised to contact the club in advance to confirm access and tee times.

Facilities include an 18-hole championship course, a covered driving range, multiple putting greens, and dedicated areas for bunker play and short-game practice.

About Geneva

Geneva sits on the shores of Lake Geneva at the foot of the Alps and combines international influence with striking natural surroundings. It is home to the European headquarters of the United Nations and the Red Cross and has a long history shaped by diplomacy, diversity and the Protestant Reformation.

One of the city’s most recognisable landmarks is the Jet d’eau, the world’s tallest water fountain, which serves as a constant point of reference when exploring the city. Geneva’s Old Town offers a glimpse into its medieval past, while more than thirty museums and galleries showcase the city’s cultural and historical depth.

Golf in Megève

Mont d’Arbois of Megève | 3001 route Edmond de Rothschild, 74120 Megève

www.mont-darbois.fr | +33 (0) 4 50 21 29 79

Located above the village of Megève at an average altitude of 1,320 metres, the Mont d’Arbois Golf Club is the oldest 18-hole alpine golf course still in use today. Its origins date back to the 1920s, when Baroness Noémie de Rothschild established Domaine du Mont d’Arbois as a prestigious mountain resort.

In 1964, her son Baron Edmond de Rothschild, a passionate golfer, commissioned the creation of the golf course, entrusting the design to professional golfer Henry Cotton, who was also involved in the development of the nearby course in Courmayeur.

The course is naturally integrated into the Mont d’Arbois plateau and is designed to be both environmentally respectful and enjoyable to walk. Its gently rolling terrain, combined with wide fairways and panoramic mountain views, makes for an accessible yet memorable round in a classic alpine setting.

The Mont d’Arbois Golf Club is open daily, typically from 9am to 6pm in the low season and from 8am to 7pm during peak summer months, weather permitting.

About Megève

Originally developed in the 1920s as France’s answer to the glamour of St Moritz, Megève quickly became a favourite destination for Europe’s elite. Today, it retains its elegance and timeless charm, blending traditional Savoyard architecture with modern luxury.

The village is centred around a picturesque medieval square, with 13th-century buildings sitting alongside stylish boutiques, cafés, restaurants and high-end hotels. Megève’s refined atmosphere, combined with its alpine setting, makes it a popular year-round destination beyond the golf course.

Golf in Courmayeur

Golf Club of Courmayeur & Grandes Jorasses | Lieu-dit Le Pont-Val Ferret, 11013 Courmayeur AO, Italy

www.golfcourmayeur.it | +39 0165 89103

The Golf Course of Courmayeur and Grandes Jorasses was originally designed and built in the 1930s by British architect Peter Gannon. Thanks to the foresight of the Gilberti family, the course was further improved in the 1940s by Henry Cotton, and it remains open today largely in line with his original layout.

Set beneath the dramatic Grandes Jorasses range, the course offers a traditional alpine golfing experience in a compact and scenic setting. Teaching professionals are available at the club, and regular tournaments take place throughout the summer, particularly from July to August. These include inter-club events with Chamonix, continuing a long-standing cross-border golfing tradition.

About Courmayeur

Developed around two ancient churches on the Italian side of Mont Blanc, Courmayeur is a village rich in history and alpine character. Cobbled streets and traditional buildings preserve its old-world charm, while a lively selection of restaurants, bars and independent boutiques give it a distinctly Italian atmosphere.

The largely traffic-free centre makes Courmayeur easy to explore on foot and gives it a relaxed, family-friendly feel. Cultural highlights include the Duca degli Abruzzi Museum, which brings the area’s mountaineering heritage to life through historic documents, equipment and stories from the pioneers who shaped the sport.

Take a swing at a golf holiday in Chamonix

With world-class terrain both on and off the course, golf in Chamonix offers far more than just a round with a view. The valley’s central location also makes it easy to combine golf here with nearby destinations such as Megève, Courmayeur and Geneva, adding variety to a longer stay.

Chamonix stands out among global golf destinations thanks to its mix of alpine scenery, outdoor activities and lively summer atmosphere. Whether you’re pairing golf with hiking, biking or simply enjoying the town during one of its many annual events, it’s an ideal base for an active mountain holiday.

Golf in Chamonix isn’t just about the fairways — it’s about making the most of everything the valley has to offer.