Swing and Good Vibes: An Afternoon of Golf Initiation in Villars

This afternoon, we swapped mini-golf for a real full-size golf initiation. Thanks to the sessions offered one to three times a week at the Golf de Villars, we decided to give it a try.
Here, there are no elitist clichés: golf is open to non-members, whether for an initiation or a full round. The verdict? A sport more technical than it seems… but one we quickly got hooked on!

On the way to the Golf de Villars

Located at 1,600 metres above sea level, the Golf de Villars overlooks the village and offers an exceptional setting. A major bonus: it is accessible by cogwheel train from Villars station. We get off directly at the “Golf” stop – no chance of getting lost!
From the train, you can already spot the green, the buggies, and a few players on the course. The adventure begins even before setting foot on the practice ground.

A great initiation

At the reception, Léonard, our guide for the afternoon, equips us according to our handedness (right- or left-handed). We head to the covered practice area, set against a typically Alpine backdrop: a small pond, cows with their bells ringing, the Villars–Bretaye train passing by, and behind the clouds… the mountains.
We start with some practice swings: stance, grip, movement fluidity, target choice… Not so easy to coordinate everything and find the relaxation needed for a successful swing.
Thanks to Léonard’s precise explanations, we quickly make progress. Of course, we are still far from Tiger Woods’ level, but the fun is there – and we’re definitely enjoying ourselves.

A golf course committed to nature

The Golf de Villars also stands out for its commitment to sustainability. For several years, the course has been maintained with an ecological approach, including limited watering (rainwater does the rest), manual and mechanical weeding without chemicals, a few beehives installed near hole no. 10, and a variety of plants and rustic grasses that strengthen biodiversity. While walking around, visitors can also find information boards about the local wildlife and flora, such as birds, amphibians, and plants. This golf course is truly integrated into its natural mountain environment.

The putting green

We continue with the putting green, a small course reminiscent of mini-golf. This time, a change of club: out comes the putter. The goal? To aim for the hole in as few strokes as possible, despite the sometimes sloping terrain. A little final game rounds off the activity in a cheerful mood.

After the effort, relaxation at the Club House

The afternoon ends at the Club House, enjoying a hot drink. The clouds slowly lift, revealing the Diablerets and the Dents du Midi. The Mont Blanc remains hidden, but that gives us a perfect excuse to come back for a good meal at the Golf restaurant.