Known and celebrated around the world for its mineral water, Évian is also one of Haute-Savoie’s crown jewels.
But beyond its natural beauty and discreet elegance, the town has become a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts. Every year in early July, it hosts The Amundi Evian Championship, one of the five Major tournaments in women’s golf, on the legendary Champions Course. A one-of-a-kind venue that blends sporting excellence, an exceptional natural setting, and French sophistication.
Here's how to make the most of 48 hours in Évian, centered around the world of golf.
Getting There: A Journey as Pleasant as the Destination
Located just an hour’s drive from Geneva International Airport, Évian is easily accessible via a scenic route along the shores of Lake Geneva, offering soothing vistas and charming Savoyard villages. For those preferring public transport, regular train connections run from major French cities, and boat transfers are available from places like Lausanne. Once in Évian, the town is best explored on foot.
Elite Golf Experience on The Champions Course
One of the most iconic 18-hole courses in Europe, The Champions Course attracts the world's best women golfers each summer. Outside of tournament dates, it welcomes passionate players looking for a challenging game in a breathtaking setting. With flawless fairways, remarkably precise greens, and panoramic views of Lake Geneva, the golfing experience here reaches an exceptional standard.
A Second Course and a World-Class Training Center: The Lake Course & the Academy
For a lighter but equally refined format, head to The Lake Course. This 6-hole course, designed to suit all levels, can be played in about an hour — perfect for improving at your own pace in a setting as immaculate as the Major course. The Evian Resort Golf Academy offers tailor-made coaching sessions with certified Golfzon Leadbetter professionals, using top-tier tools such as TrackMan Range, TopTracer Range, and the Big Tilt XL putting platform to hone your game in optimal conditions.
Recharging After the Game: Elegance and Comfort
At the heart of the Academy, Le Manoir du Golf, with just 8 rooms, offers a warm and intimate atmosphere where fine wood and leather create a classic British-style clubhouse feel. It’s the perfect address to extend the golfing experience in a cozy, refined setting.
For a truly exceptional stay, the Hôtel Royal — the iconic five-star palace — embodies French luxury at its finest. Lake-view rooms, a world-class evian® spa, signature treatments, an outdoor pool, and Michelin-starred dining all invite you to fully disconnect and indulge in total well-being.
Dining: From Green to Gourmet
At lunchtime, Le Chalet du Golf is the perfect pit stop. With a panoramic terrace overlooking the 18-hole course and a menu that’s both fresh and indulgent, local ingredients take center stage in a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.
For a quicker bite, the Academy’s snack corner, open Wednesday through Sunday, offers a fast and tasty selection — hot dogs, paninis, fries — all served in a laid-back setting with one of the finest lakefront terraces around.
In the heart of town, the Évian Resort’s restaurants — such as Umberto, Pub Le Bureau, or La Terrasse du Baron, to name just a few — offer a variety of cuisines where regional products shine, prepared by chefs with a true passion for the area.
End the day on a high note
No visit to Évian would be complete without an evening stroll. As the sun sets over Lake Geneva and the mountain peaks turn golden, the city reveals an even more peaceful side. A moment suspended in time, perfect for rounding off a day of activity, pleasure and contemplation.
