Built in 1908 under the impetus of Joseph Aletti, director of the Société des Grands Hôtels de Vichy, and the Compagnie Fermière de Vichy, the golf course was part of a drive to breathe new life into the town, making it more modern and sophisticated.
In the early 20th century, Vichy, already famous for its spa treatments and charming way of life, attracted an international elite – the sports-loving British in particular. Against this backdrop, the golf course became a popular leisure and social venue, fully meeting the expectations of a demanding clientele.
The first 9-hole course was laid out by champion Arnaud Massy on a 25-hectare site, with an artificial river running through it and croquet and boules facilities for ladies. In 1912, the course was extended to 14 holes, then to 18 holes in 1914, for a total surface area of 40 ha. The Vichy golf course, now owned by club members, welcomes some 1,500 regular and occasional players every year, and hosts around 40 competitions.
The Neo-Norman-style clubhouse, the original bell tower of which has now disappeared, was designed by Gustave Simon, a Deauville-born architect at the Compagnie Fermière.
