THE FACTS ABOUT LES BORDES

France

WHAT? An elegant course in the Loire Valley, the work of Texan designer Robert von Hagge. He was given an almost unlimited budget and it shows. Not for the meek, as 12 out of 18 holes involve negotiating water. Feels like an exclusive private forest retreat because it once was WHERE? An hour-and-a-half's drive from Paris, 35km south of the medieval city of Orléans. The gloriously quiet course winds its way past lake and woodland in the Sologne forest on the south bank of the Loire. The nearest town is Beaugency WHY? If they put golf courses in the Louvre, this would have pride of place. Once the hunting estate of Baron Marcel Bich (of Bic pen fame). He and his Japanese trading partner, Yoshiaki Sakurai, built Les Bordes as their private golf club. Now there's no need to wait for an invitation WHEN? Although it is as good as any course in Europe, it's currently offered at a bargain price. Excellent in the summer as an escape from Paris; ideal in spring or late autumn as the forest colours change. Perfectly maintained in near-tournament condition CONTACT 41220 Saint-Laurent-Nouan, France (00 33 2 54 87 72 13; www.lesbordes.com). Green fees from about £50