An 18-hole cultural escapade around greater Paris

The tour starts with a day on the Fontainebleau golf course, reputed as one of the most beautiful in Europe and also one of the oldest in France (opened in 1909). The Mouchy Cup (launched by the Duke of Mouchy in 1927), which attracts the best French amateurs, is held here. The 18-hole course goes through a section of forest full of a heather and enormous bolders. 

1st night a the Château de Bourron, a listed historical monument.

Visiting the Château de Fontainebleau is an idyllic way to begin the day, where the greatest French royal families lived, from the House of Capet (Capétiens) to the Orléans, not forgetting the Bonapartes. Louis XIII's famous horseshoe-shaped staircase forms the entrance and guides visitors inside majestic settings including six appartments, galleries, a theatre and several chapels. The Galerie de Diane is reputed as the longest room in the building. Orléans is only a few miles away and we suggest visiting the gothic Saint-Croix cathedral. Building started in 1287 and only finished 600 years later in 1829. There is an arrow to see right at the top of the bell tower; it was put there by architect Emile Boeswilwad in 1859, inspired by and similar to the one Viollet-le-Duc put on Notre-Dame in Paris. Jane of Arc used to come here to pray during the siege of Orléans in 1429. To end the afternoon, off to the Hôtel Groslot, built between 1549 and 1558 during the Renaissance. François II died here in 1560. A statue of Jane of Arc stands at the foot of the steps opposite the facade made in the 19th century by Marie d’Orléans. The interior decor showcases historical antique furniture: Louis XI gave a wooden chest and works by Dupuy to the family who lived here at the time.

We recommend staying in Orléans for the 2^nd night.

Today's settings are besides the Cosson river. The Sologne golf course was built post-WWII and the woods are home to wild deer you may encounter during the round.

3rd night at the Château des Grotteaux, a 17th century château in the Loire Valley.

Spend the fourth and final day touring the Loire châteaux. Starting with the Château de Chambord, the largest château in region with 440 rooms, 85 staircases and 365 fire places. The château's treasure is the double helix staircase, designed so two people going up or down can always see each other but never meet at the top or bottom. End the visit on the balconies for the best view over the magnificent 13,600-acre estate. Then go onto the Château de Blois to admire the Renaissance facade made up of various styles of architecture, recounting the lives of the kings and queens who lived here. The terraced gardens offer an unrivalled view of Blois. Stop off to see the Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire if you have time at the end of the day. The château once belonged to Catherine de Médicis and today exhibits works by contemporary artists and photographers.

4th night at the Château de Chaumont.