Fontainebleau Golf Course: A French Golfing Masterpiece on CGE Golf's Escorted France Tour 2027

Golf de Fontainebleau is a 1909 Tom Simpson-designed course set inside the historic Forest of Fontainebleau, 70km south of Paris, and it's one of the headline stops on CGE Golf's Escorted France Tour 2027. Ranked among continental Europe's finest inland layouts, it pairs a serious strategic test with one of the most scenic settings in French golf — and it's included in the CGE itinerary alongside a visit to the UNESCO-listed Château de Fontainebleau.

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Quick Facts: Golf de Fontainebleau

   ▪️ Established: 1909 

   ▪️ Designer: Tom Simpson 

   ▪️ Location: ~70km south of Paris, Île-de-France 

   ▪️ Course type: Inland, forest/heathland 

   ▪️ Notable feature: Sandstone rock outcrops, mature pine and oak forest 

   ▪️ Tournament history: French Amateur Championship and other national events 

   ▪️ Nearby landmark: Château de Fontainebleau (UNESCO World Heritage Site)  Paris & The French Riviera Escorted Golf Experience 2027

   ▪️ Included in: Paris & The French Riviera Escorted Golf Experience 2027

A Course Rich in French Golfing History

Golf de Fontainebleau was founded in 1909, making it one of France's oldest and most prestigious clubs. It was designed by English architect Tom Simpson, whose strategic design principles also shaped courses such as Chantilly and Morfontaine — two other benchmarks of French golf architecture.

Over more than a century, the course has hosted the French Amateur Championship and other national events, cementing its status as one of the country's defining venues. Unlike many newer developments, Fontainebleau has kept its traditional character intact: the clubhouse, the routing, and the playing experience remain close to Simpson's original vision.

A Stunning Setting in the Forest of Fontainebleau

The course sits inside the Forest of Fontainebleau, a former royal hunting ground famed across France for its towering pines, ancient oaks, and distinctive sandstone boulders. Each hole feels self-contained, giving players a sense of seclusion rarely found on modern resort courses.

That immersive, forested setting is part of what sets Fontainebleau apart from the resort-style courses more commonly found on golf holidays — and it's a major reason CGE Golf built it into the France itinerary.

A Strategic Masterpiece, Not a Long One

Fontainebleau's challenge doesn't come from length — it comes from precision. Tom Simpson's design rewards accurate shot placement and course management over raw power:

   ▪️ Tree-lined fairways that look generous but punish wayward drives

   ▪️ Strategically placed bunkers and subtle elevation changes

   ▪️ Fast, undulating greens that demand a precise short game

   ▪️ Doglegs that require positional thinking off the tee

Players who manage the course thoughtfully score well; those who play too aggressively tend to find trouble. It's this balance — fair but exacting — that has earned Fontainebleau its reputation among golf purists.

Memorable Holes From Start to Finish

Rather than relying on a few signature holes, Fontainebleau delivers consistent quality across all 18. Expect:

   ▪️ Narrow driving corridors framed by pines

   ▪️ Sculpted bunker complexes

   ▪️ Elevated greens demanding precise approaches

   ▪️ Natural rock outcrops woven into the layout

An Authentic French Golf Experience

Where many large commercial resorts feel interchangeable, Fontainebleau retains a distinctly French clubhouse atmosphere — traditional hospitality, regional wines, and post-round conversation with fellow travellers. On the CGE Golf tour, this is paired with time to explore the surrounding town. 

Beyond the Course: Château de Fontainebleau and the Town

The town of Fontainebleau is home to the Château de Fontainebleau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site once home to French monarchs including Napoleon Bonaparte. Between rounds, CGE Golf travellers (and non-golfing partners) can explore the château, browse boutique shops, and enjoy the town's cafés — making this stop as much a cultural experience as a golfing one. 

FAQ: Golf de Fontainebleau

Who designed Golf de Fontainebleau? 

The course was designed by English golf architect Tom Simpson and opened in 1909.

Where is Golf de Fontainebleau located?

It's located in the Forest of Fontainebleau, approximately 70 kilometres south of Paris, France.

Is Golf de Fontainebleau difficult to play? 

It's considered a strategic rather than a long course — the challenge comes from tree-lined fairways, bunker placement, and fast greens rather than sheer yardage.

What else is there to do near Golf de Fontainebleau? 

The nearby town of Fontainebleau is home to the Château de Fontainebleau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with cafés and boutique shopping.

How can I play Golf de Fontainebleau as part of an organised trip?

Golf de Fontainebleau is one of the featured courses on CGE Golf's Escorted France Tour 2027, which combines rounds at top French courses with guided cultural excursions.

Ready to Play Fontainebleau in 2027?

Fontainebleau is just one stop on CGE Golf's Escorted France Tour 2027 — a fully guided trip through some of France's most celebrated courses and cultural landmarks.

→ View full Paris & The French Riviera Escorted Golf Experience 2027 itinerary 

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→ Speak to a CGE Golf tour specialist

Spaces on escorted tours are limited by group size — enquire early to secure your place.