8.35

Skolkovo Golf Club

ARCHITECTS

Course info

ACCESS
Private
EST.
2014
GRASS
Bentgrass
SEASON
May–October
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
?
CADDIES
Unknown
Type
Parkland
Unknown
Par
72
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
10
City
Moscow

Score

8.35
Design
40%
8.5
Conditions
25%
8.8
Desirability
15%
7.9
Scenery
10%
8.2
Fun
5%
7.8
Uniqueness
5%
7.0

Difficulty

Overall
Hard

Slope 144

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 10

7
15

Walkability Moderate

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Medium

Low
Extreme

Average Wind Low

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
$
$
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

The course hosted the 2015 Russian Open on the European Tour just a year after opening, signaling international recognition for Russian golf.

About

Skolkovo Golf Club is a Jack Nicklaus Signature design opened in 2014 within the Skolkovo Innovation Center near Moscow. A private, high-prestige club, it features a flat parkland layout with strategic water hazards and over a hundred bunkers. Renowned for its championship-level challenge and luxury amenities, Skolkovo quickly became one of Russia's top courses, hosting events like the Russian Open.

Caddie Tip

Focus on strategic play off the tee, as water and extensive bunkering defend many fairways and greens. Approach shots must favor the correct side of the pin; don't short-side yourself, especially on holes framed by water. The greens can be slick, so aggressive putting is risky. Respect pin positions and consider the wind, as the open parkland can leave shots exposed.

The Main Challenge

The greatest challenge comes from the clever positioning of water and more than a hundred bunkers, requiring careful course management and precision shot-making. The flat layout exposes golfers to swirling winds at times, and Nicklaus’s green complexes demand thoughtful approach play. The course can be especially tough from the back tees for low handicappers.

The Good

Golfers praise Skolkovo’s world-class design and immaculate conditioning, highlighting the challenge presented by its abundant water hazards and sculpted bunkers. The luxury clubhouse, elite service, and exclusivity make each visit feel special. Its status as a Jack Nicklaus Signature course adds prestige, drawing those who appreciate a championship-level test just outside central Moscow.

The Not So Good

The most common criticism is the club's exclusivity and high costs, making access difficult for most visiting golfers. Some members wish for more tee time availability, especially on weekends, as private events can reduce member play. Occasional comments note that the flat terrain could use more natural elevation for added visual drama.

Signature Hole:

#

18

No items found.

Could not find info

Clubhouse

The elegant clubhouse provides fine dining, a modern bar, a pro shop, luxurious locker rooms, and numerous member lounges. Extra amenities include wellness facilities, meeting rooms, outdoor terrace dining, and event spaces for private functions. Service standards match top international private clubs.

Practice Facilities

No items found.

Skolkovo features a state-of-the-art golf academy with three studios, advanced teaching bay technology, and a large putting studio. The practice range offers both covered and open-air bays, along with short-game areas for chipping and bunker practice. Facilities are excellent for both serious practice and warm-ups.

Dress Code:

Prestigious

No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.

Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.

Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.

Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.

Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.

Russia