Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace Hotel

France

September’s Ryder Cup takes place at Le Golf National, just outside Paris. It’s the first time the tournament has taken place in France and as such, they’ve chosen a course worthy of the occasion. Opened in 1990, it’s new and fresh, yet mature enough to prove a challenge when Europe and USA do battle. The players will be staying nearby at the Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace, on the periphery of the gardens of the Palace of Versailles. Opened in 1910, the hotel is no poor relation when it comes to design. Cut in white stone to match the style of the palace, its sweeping grand entrance complements the area perfectly and its history tells a fascinating tale. Between 1939 and 1944, it was employed as headquarters for the RAF, then the Luftwaffe, before American forces occupied it to stake out the geopolitical map we know today. These days, a more sedate pace pervades. Marble hallways lead to two restaurants overlooking the grounds of Versailles. Even though one holds a Michelin star for Gordon Ramsay, our pick is Le Veranda. Its sprawling, covered terrace will no doubt be the setting for victorious golfers long into the night, serving brasserie classics – steak tartare, seasonal tomato salad, grilled sea bass – with a good-value wine list. Doubles from £394.