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How to Play Pétanque

Pétanque is a fun and relaxing outdoor game that combines skill, strategy, and a bit of friendly competition. Originating from France, this game is perfect for spending time with friends or family, and it’s easy to pick up for players of all ages. At Mt Rosa Lodge, we’re proud to offer our guests the opportunity to enjoy this classic game on our outdoor pétanque court, set amidst the stunning views of the Gibbston region. Here’s a guide on how to play pétanque, so you can make the most of your stay at our luxury accommodation in Gibbston.



Pétanque Sign


What is Pétanque?

Pétanque is a game where players take turns throwing metal balls (called boules) towards a smaller wooden ball, called the cochonnet (or "jack"). The goal is to get your boules as close as possible to the cochonnet, either by throwing them accurately or by knocking your opponent’s boules out of the way. Played on a flat surface (often gravel or dirt), it’s a social and low-impact activity, ideal for leisurely afternoons at our vineyard retreat near Queenstown.


The Rules of Pétanque

  1. Setting Up the Game:To start, one player throws a small circle (around 3-4 meters in diameter) on the ground. This is where the game will take place. Then, the first player throws the cochonnet to a distance of 6-10 meters from the circle.

  2. Throwing the Boules:Players then take turns throwing their boules from within the circle, trying to get as close as possible to the cochonnet. Boules should be thrown with an underhand motion.

  3. Scoring:After all players have thrown their boules, the player with the boule closest to the cochonnet scores 1 point for each of their boules that is closer than any of their opponent’s boules. The game continues until a player reaches 13 points (or another agreed-upon number).

  4. Strategy:The beauty of pétanque lies in its strategy. You can choose to throw your boule gently and accurately to land near the cochonnet, or you can throw with more force to knock your opponent’s boules out of the way.


Enjoy Pétanque at Mt Rosa Lodge

At Mt Rosa Lodge, we’ve created the perfect setting for enjoying pétanque with friends and family. Our pétanque court is a wonderful spot to relax and enjoy the game while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and mountains. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway in the Queenstown region or a peaceful retreat in the Gibbston area, you can unwind and engage in some friendly competition right on our property.

Pétanque is the ideal way to spend a leisurely afternoon, and we encourage all our guests to make use of this unique activity during their stay. After a round of pétanque, you can relax on our terrace, enjoy a glass of La Bella Rosa, our exclusive Pinot Noir, and savor the beautiful atmosphere of our vineyard retreat near Queenstown.


Why Try Pétanque?

Pétanque is the perfect blend of relaxation and fun. It’s a game that requires little preparation but offers plenty of enjoyment, making it a perfect addition to your visit. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a romantic getaway or spending time with friends, pétanque offers a memorable experience that brings people together.

So, when you stay at Mt Rosa Lodge, be sure to enjoy our outdoor pétanque court. It’s just one of the many ways you can unwind and experience the charm of the Gibbston region.



Playing Pétanque

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