Gelendzhik Golf Resort

Designed by Paul Thomas and opened in 2019, Gelendzhik Golf Resort is an 18-hole resort course in Gelendzhik, Krasnodar Krai, Russia, recognized as one of the best new golf facilities in the world. The layout plays across wavy fairways and multi-tiered greens with mountain ranges and coastal views throughout the round. Hole 1 drops sharply downhill from the tee, hole 2 is a par 3 with a green set above the tee on a difficult flat terrace, hole 3 opens views of the mountain ranges before a stream and bunker come into play, and hole 4 marks the first real test of the round. The Golf Academy offers training under the Golf Club Director, with express-training programs available. A main training field with platforms supports short-game practice. The clubhouse includes Restaurant a-la Carte, an 80-seat room serving Mediterranean cuisine under chef Slobodan Smolovich. A lounge bar seats 30 with sofas and background music. A professional golf shop stocks equipment, clubs, clothing, shoes, bags, balls, accessories, and club souvenirs.