Looking for a golf school to fine tune your game before the upcoming season. John Cook is offering Women & Golf readers a chance to do exactly that at Chateau Des Vigiers.
Whether you’re looking to fine tune your swing before the season gets underway, a complete novice seeking to grasp the game’s fundamentals or merely in search of sunshine, wine and relaxation, Becky Gee may have the perfect solution.
Renowned golf instructor John Cook and his son Matthew, both highly regarded Level Five coaches with experience working alongside tour professionals, are giving ladies the opportunity to blow the cobwebs away from their clubs after the long winter and get ready for the golfing season under the Dordogne sunshine. Based at the romantic Chateau Des Vigiers, recently voted the best golf hotel in France, the golf school is designed to enable you to immerse yourself in the entire French experiance. The golf school comprises two mornings of coaching, three rounds of golf at the charming Chateau Des Vigiers and 4 nights B & B accommodation.
The Course
The course consists of three loops of nine and each provide a solid test for the seasoned golfer without proving in any way intimidating for those requiring a little more forgiveness. Designed by acclaimed course architect Donald Steel, the course meanders its way through a tranquil mix of plum trees, oak woods, lakes and vineyards, until ultimately reaching the unforgettable 18th. Described by Steel as his career favourite, the dog-leg necessitates a solid drive over a ridge before gifting the player with stunning views across the lake (nestled invitingly in front of the green) and the Chateau.
Accommodation
The golf school will be based in The Relais, a hotel situated only metres from the 1st Tee, although guests are offered the opportunity to upgrade to the luxurious Chateau itself. Designed with the golfer in mind the rooms are bright and airy with plenty of space for all your golfing essentials. Guests are offered exclusive use of the pool, gymnasium and sauna, whilst a tasty continental breakfast is offered in the Relais’ breakfast room.
What To Do
The last day of the golf school is free to relax or to explore the region. Château des Vigiers is a 40-minute drive is St Emelion, one of Bordeaux's largest winemaking appellations. Many of the region's finest vineyards can be found atop the steep limestone slopes of the village itself, though with its fascinating Romanesque churches and quirky shops and cafés flanking the narrow streets, the village is worthy of at least half a day in its own right.
Alternatively Bergerac, perched on the edge of the Dordogne, with it medieval old town and lively café scene is a quaint town to explore and perhaps partake in a spot of shopping. Those instead wishing to enjoy some rest or recuperation may like to visit the Maria Galland Beauty Centre which offers a variety of professional beauty treatments, as well as a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, outdoor heated swimming pool and fitness centre.
How To Get There
Located just 20 minutes from Bergerac and about an hour east of Bordeaux, Château des Vigiers is easily accessible from many airports in the UK.
John Cook Golf School 3rd-7th April
What's Included- £532 (exluding flights and transfers)
- 4 x nights b&b accommodation (sharing) in Relais des Vigiers
- 3 rounds of golf
- 2 mornings 2-hour tuition with John and Mathew Cook
- Welcome Dinner
- Welcome Drink
- Use of the Range and Academy Holes
- Wine Tasting
To book this trip or for further information, contact John Cook on 07885 682287 or email [email protected].
You can discover more about Chateau Des Vigiers in the January/February 2016 issue of Women & Golf magazine, now on sale. Never miss an issue click here to subscribe and enjoy W&G delivered to your door
