Learn the rules, techniques, and etiquette of pétanque. From the cochonnet to your first carreau — everything a beginner needs to know.
What is pétanque?
Pétanque is a French ball sport played on a gravel or sand surface. Players throw metal boules, trying to land them as close as possible to a small wooden target ball called the cochonnet (or jack).
It originated in La Ciotat, Provence, in 1907. The name comes from the Provençal dialect: pè tanco meaning "feet together" — the throwing stance that distinguishes pétanque from older forms of boules.
Equipment
Boules: Metal balls, 70–80mm diameter, 650–800g. Competition boules are made from hardened steel. Leisure sets are usually softer.
Cochonnet: A small wooden ball, usually painted red or yellow, 30mm in diameter.
Measuring tape: For close disputes about which boule is nearest the cochonnet.How to play
Setup
One player stands in the circle and throws the cochonnet 6–10 metres ahead.
The same player throws their first boule, trying to land it close to the cochonnet.Taking turns
The team without the closest boule throws next.
Play continues until all boules from both teams have been thrown.Scoring
Only the team with the boule closest to the cochonnet scores.
They score one point for each boule closer to the cochonnet than the nearest opponent's boule.
First team to 13 points wins.Two strategies: pointing and shooting
A pointeur tries to land their boule as close to the cochonnet as possible.
A tireur tries to knock the opponent's boule away — and ideally land their own in its place (a carreau).
Most teams have a mix of both specialists.
Common formats
Triplette (3v3): Each player throws 2 boules. The most common format in competitions.
Doublette (2v2): Each player throws 3 boules.
Tête-à-tête (1v1): Each player throws 3 boules.Tips for beginners
Hold the boule in the palm of your hand, fingers together, palm facing down.
Swing underarm — don't overshoot. Accuracy beats distance.
Aim for a landing spot, not the cochonnet directly. Let the boule roll to it.
Watch experienced players — find a club or bar with courts and observe a few mènes before playing.Finding a place to play
BouléClubs lists hundreds of venues across Europe where you can play pétanque — from free public courts in parks to dedicated clubs, bars, and boulodromes. Search for venues near you.