JC Skiera is very keen on a number of sports, one of which is golf! Here is his review of the golfing opportunites around our region (the Haute Savoie) of the Alps.
Chamonix : an interesting and very playable course set in stunning scenery. Not that posh in comparison to some of the others but expensive green fees in peak season (July – August), circa 65 euros, cheaper the rest of the time. I am a member so I’m a bit biased. Really nice restaurant and friendly staff.
Megève : definitely posh but less interesting as a golf course, the greens are often in poor condition. High green fees.
Annecy : two courses around the lake : Talloires : expensive in high season, a short but hilly mountain-type course kept in excellent condition, especially the greens (which are notoriously small). Giez : longer and more playable “parkland” course, worth a visit, friendly atmosphere and decent pro-shop (a rarity).
Evian Masters : splendid championship course with fantastic practice facilities but very expensive in Summer. Best time to play is just after they’ve had the Ladies Masters.
Esery (near Bonneville along the M40 motorway) : really nice and fairly challenging parkland course, super fast and very big greens, superb club house, shop and restaurant. Absolutely worth a try.
Divonne : haven’t tried this one but my mate who is a scratch golfer says it is better than Evian.
Bossey (at the foot of the Saleve mountain near the Swiss border) : very challenging course, Jean Van de Velde is a regular!
Aix Les Bains, 30 minutes from Annecy, old parkland course with character and in good condition. Playable throughout the year.
The 2 others are Flaine and Les Gets, useful if you are staying nearby but not really comparable to the others.
Posted by Gareth 
