Castlemartyr Resort is a luxury country-house resort in the village of Castlemartyr in East Cork, set among old walls, gardens, woodland and a golf course. It is a five-star property with just over a hundred rooms and suites, and it suits visitors who want to treat the stay as the destination rather than a base for city sightseeing. The surroundings are quiet and green, with a sculpture garden and woodland trails, and the village has a pub within walking distance. The drive to Cork Airport takes around three-quarters of an hour, and the city itself is further, so this is best for travellers with a car or those happy to take a taxi into town for a day.
Location and getting around
East Cork has some of the best food and coast in the region. Ballymaloe Gardens and the Ballymaloe cookery school are about a thirteen-minute drive, the Jameson Experience in Midleton is roughly seventeen minutes, and beaches such as Ballynamona and Redbarn are around a fifteen to twenty minute drive.
Midleton railway station is about twenty minutes away, and Cobh, the Titanic Experience and the Ballycotton cliff walk are within easy reach for a day out. Without a car, plan on taxis, which are costly in rural areas, so check the transport before you book.
Rooms and facilities
Rooms include Manor Staterooms, deluxe doubles and twins, garden and golf-view rooms, junior suites with a balcony and larger Grand Suites, with king beds, air conditioning, rainfall showers, separate tubs in many rooms, smart televisions, a kettle and Wi-Fi at no extra charge. The spa offers massages, facials and body scrubs, and the indoor pool has sun loungers and a hot tub, with a gym alongside.
The golf course has a clubhouse, a pro shop and lessons, and there is also archery on site. Dining includes three restaurants and a bar, and the signature fine-dining room has held two Michelin stars. Bicycles can be borrowed at no charge, a library offers a quiet corner, and a hair salon is on site. Room service runs around the clock, and babysitting is available for a fee.
What to know
This is the most expensive style of stay in the Cork area, so look closely at what is included in a package, such as breakfast, dinner or spa credit. Parking, both self-service and valet, is free. Pets are not accepted apart from service animals. Check-in is from three in the afternoon and check-out is at noon, and late arrivals can be arranged for limited hours.
Who it suits
Couples on an anniversary or honeymoon, golfers, food lovers who want to explore Ballymaloe and Midleton, and anyone happy to trade city access for space and quiet. Summer weekends and wedding dates sell out early, while winter midweek rates can be much gentler. Book flexible rates if your plans may change.
Why stay here
- ✓Country resort in East Cork
- ✓Golf course and pro shop
- ✓Spa treatments
- ✓Indoor pool and hot tub
- ✓Three restaurants and a bar
- ✓Woodland trails and sculpture garden
- ✓Free parking and valet
- ✓Free bicycle loan
Good questions
Where is Castlemartyr Resort?+
It is in the village of Castlemartyr in East Cork, about 45 minutes by car from Cork Airport and close to Ballymaloe and Midleton.
Is parking free?+
Yes, self-parking and valet parking are both available at no charge.
Can I stay here without a car?+
It is possible but awkward. The resort is rural, so plan on taxis and check transport options before you book.
