Biarritz Green, Golf Term

“Biarritz green” is a golf term that refers to a specific type of green or putting surface that features a deep swale or gully running horizontally across it. This type of green design was popularized by the Biarritz Golf Club in Biarritz, France, hence the name.

The Biarritz green is characterized by a deep depression that cuts the green into two distinct sections, creating a challenging and visually striking feature. The gully is typically filled with rough, a bunker, or even water, adding further difficulty to the shot.

The primary objective when faced with a Biarritz green is to navigate the ball across the swale and onto the other side, ideally positioning it for a better chance at sinking the putt. The gully presents a unique challenge, as golfers must carefully consider the distance, trajectory, and spin required to clear the depression while avoiding any hazards.

Biarritz greens are regarded as strategic elements in golf course architecture, testing a golfer's skill in both ball-striking and course management. They require thoughtful shot planning and execution, making them an interesting and memorable feature on a golf course.

A green with a deep swale across the middle. The swale is often a foot or more below the surface of the rest of the green. This feature first appeared at Biarritz Golf Club in France and has been copied many times around the world.