Golf Club de Lyon

Les Brocards — the historic, classic, and subtle course of Golf Club de Lyon, proven by the French Open

Les Brocards unfolds across wooded, relatively flat terrain east of Lyon, near the Rhône River and the airport. The fairways weave through forested areas, clearings, and several sectors where water subtly comes into play.

Golf Club de Lyon was founded in 1919. The construction of a new road forced the club to leave its first site and relocate to Villette-d’Anthon in the early 1960s. Fred Hawtree designed Les Brocards, which opened in the mid-1960s. The course hosted the French Open in 1979, followed by several European professional events.

Hawtree created a classic parkland course, featuring doglegs, strategically placed bunkers, and readable greens. Its difficulty is more subtle than spectacular, arising from the necessity of planning the next shot and the quality of its par 3s.

The course measures approximately 6,100 meters. While it appears accessible from the tee, the doglegs and trees quickly narrow the angles. The greens reward approaches played from the correct half of the fairway.

Golf Club de Lyon boasts two eighteen-hole courses and a rich sporting history. Les Brocards offers a more classic and shorter experience than Les Sangliers, which is highly appreciated by members.

The Round selects it for its balance, tradition, and ability to remain engaging without spectacular effects.

Club founded in 1919; relocation in the early 1960s; Les Brocards designed by Fred Hawtree and opened in the mid-1960s; French Open 1979.