Agalarov

Founded by billionaire businessman Aras Agalarov from Azerbaijan, the Agalarov Estate lies an hour’s drive west of downtown Moscow, with holes routed around an extensive residential development next to a dammed section of the Belyana River.

The original plans were to construct a 9-hole course or even a short executive track but the architect convinced the owner that he should purchase more land to build a full 18-hole layout as this would be a better project solution in the longer term.

The area’s fairly flat so several small ponds and connecting streams were excavated to provide fill for contouring the fairways and thousands of mature pine trees were imported from eastern Russia to give the course a more mature feel.

The exclusive gated community boasts its own man-made beach resort with imported white sand and summer cabanas. An equestrian centre, riding paths, clay tennis courts, gymnasium, and spa complement the course and its associated golf academy.