It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful golf courses in eastern Paris, one of the most challenging and one of the most famous, Arnold Palmer obliges. Located in Seine-et-Marne, 40 km from the capital and about ten minutes from Disneyland, the Crécy route continues to evolve, under the leadership of its new owner, Éric Vignot. The owner of the Bussy-Saint-Georges golf course has taken over this little gem which, surprisingly, has not enjoyed the expected success since its opening in 1995.

“We first invested in the Vignoly course, because the maintenance left something to be desired, and we gave it an aspect in line with its standing. It is still an 18-hole course designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer, ”emphasizes Eric Vignot, who relies on his two sons (Pierre-Louis and Adrien) to manage the activity. And the Vignots have gone all out: acquisition of the latest generation mowers for a perfect smooth lawn, carts equipped with GPS, watering with automated management of the water stock of the 14 lakes, installation of dry toilets and washing areas. clubs on the course… But also elimination of penalizing roughs, enlargement of certain greens, renovation of bunkers and front greens and creation of advanced tees to make golf more affordable.

The new inhabitants of golf - Photo: DR

A completely successful facelift because although it has become more affordable for ordinary people, Vignoly remains a pleasure for the eyes and a golfing challenge, enhanced by impeccable maintenance. “We then reduced the second course, the Montpichet, to 9 holes because two 18 holes were not justified, adds Eric Vignot. We have also lowered the prices, which are too high to be competitive. »Choices that pay off, with a significant increase in attendance and a return to profitability from the first quarter of 2017.

The owner of the Crécy estate has a passion for the little white ball but also for parrots. He thus intends to open soon, on part of the old course of Montpichet, an animal park dedicated to this bird of the psittacidae family. Nearly 30 hectares - twice the area of ​​the Vincennes Zoo - where the largest aviary in Europe will be erected, with the creation of an ecosystem and a pampa where llamas, howler monkeys and a couple of jaguars.

Five lodges will also be built. “People will wake up among the birds, even if it will be a place of entertainment for the animals before being an animal park,” explains Eric Vignot. The Crécy Safari Park relies on the arrival of 200000 visitors from the first year of operation.

Installed in an old farmhouse dating from the seventeenth century, the living areas have also benefited from some alterations. The 28 spacious apartments (30 to 60m² in area) of the hotel were renovated this winter with a trendy decor. They are all equipped with air conditioning, an equipped kitchenette, a dining and living area, as well as a bathroom. Without forgetting the panoramic view on the golf course or on the interior courtyard, with its swimming pool and its dovecote.

The restaurant has been modernized and enlarged with a 45 m2 pergola or a terrace (new designer furniture not included) for lunch in the fresh air. It has two terraces, with two atmospheres to choose from: an interior courtyard or a view of the golf course. You will be able to discover the new menu offered there since April 2018 (menu at 22,90 euros with starter / main course / dessert every lunchtime). Member of the Golfy network, the Crécy domain now offers a swing revision course at 299 euros (329 euros for 2 people).

On the program: one hour of swing with control of grip, posture and alignment, one hour of approach (lifting, rolling, bunker exit), half an hour of putting, 9 holes on a guided course, 10 practice ball seals, a free Footjoy glove and 20% discount at the pro-shop. Unpack starting at 79 euros / month offers similar services (information on https://www.domainedecrecy.com/golf/cours/).

The Paris Est Golf Pass also allows you to play the Vignoly course at a reduced price, as well as those of Lésigny, Disney, Bussy and Meaux. Another novelty for 2018, the “Crecy days” are organized there during seven Sundays: a friendly competition with barbecue on the course, snacks, music…

At Crécy golf, there is now something for all tastes and all levels.

For more information : www.crecygolf.com

By Frank Crudo