Castlemartyr Resort Review

Set within 220 acres of parkland amidst the woodlands of East Cork, Castlemartyr Resort offers an indulgent luxury escape, an 18th-century manor house, expanded and adapted to 21st-century hospitality, right next door to the ruins of a 13th-century Templar castle. The eleven rooms and suites that occupy the original manor house are historical in aspect, whilst in the Contemporary Wing, the look evolves in a modern direction. The Luxury Editor was invited to nearby Midleton Distillery to celebrate the launch of their ultra-luxury whiskey ‘Midleton Very Rare Silent Distillery Chapter Six’, with Castlemartyr Resort as our luxurious base for this once-in-a-lifetime whiskey experience. Read on to discover more.

Background & Concept

Positioned within manicured gardens and acres of County Cork countryside encompassing streams, a lake, castle ruins and fields of majestic horses. The city of Cork and its International Airport are within a 45-minute drive, and the Atlantic coast is no more than 30 minutes away by road. Whiskey lovers rejoice as Middleton Distillery is a 15-minute drive away. Home to seven iconic Irish whiskey brands, you can spend a day enjoying a fully guided distillery tour, premium whiskey tastings, cask opening experiences, including behind-the-scenes access across their historic 15-acre site. 

Along with sophisticated lodgings, you’ll find an extravagant spa as well as an 18-hole golf course, driving range, and tennis facilities. You are spoiled for choice when it comes to dining and drinking venues, from high-end fine dining at Michelin Star Terre, contemporary relaxed cuisine at Canopy, traditional Irish pub fayre at the Hunted Hog and elegant drinks and Afternoon Tea at Knights Bar.

Midleton Very Rare Silent Distillery

The Luxury Editor had the ultimate privilege of attending the launch of Midleton Very Rare Silent Distillery Chapter Six from its Silent Distillery Collection. This final release marks the end of a remarkable six-part series, commemorates the 200th anniversary of the Old Midleton Distillery. Distilled fifty years ago by Master Distiller Emeritus Max Crockett, and nurtured under the watchful care of three succeeding masters – Barry Crockett, Brian Nation, and Kevin O’Gorman (read our interview with Kevin here). Finished in a bespoke cask crafted by Master Cooper Ger Buckley this once-in-a-lifetime expression encapsulates Ireland’s rich distilling heritage. Offering a blend of dark fruit, leather, antique oak, stone fruit, treacle, and spice, culminating in a long, layered finish. Its presentation is equally extraordinary, with a hand-blown decanter by House of Waterford and a custom wooden cabinet crafted by Irish artisan John Galvin. Read the full story here.

Rooms & Suites

Offering 108 rooms and suites spread across the historic 18th-century Manor House and the larger modern wing. Manor House Grand Suites and State Rooms feature high ceilings, antique-style furnishings, silk walls, walk-through wardrobes with seating areas, and black marble bathrooms, with sweeping views of the gardens, lake, or meadows.

In the contemporary wing, choose from Junior Suites, some with balconies, and Superior Deluxe or Deluxe Rooms, some with private ground-floor outdoor areas. For those travelling with pets or seeking more privacy, Garden Deluxe Rooms offer larger layouts and private sheltered gardens with direct access to the estate grounds. All rooms include smart TVs, air conditioning, in-room fridges with bottled water, and Nespresso machines.

Guests looking for longer stays or extra space can opt for one of the resort’s Gate Houses or Orchard Residences, which offer self-catering facilities while still enjoying access to the resort’s five-star services.

My Room During My Stay

I stayed in a Garden Deluxe Room, which looked out to the Clubhouse in the modern wing of the hotel. Elegant in style, spacious in design and complemented by soft golden accents throughout. A large king-sized bed sits centre stage, and to the left, a velvet armchair and companion coffee table. A separate work area includes a desk and chair, a well-stocked coffee station with tea and a Nespresso machine is at the entrance, while a private outdoor seating area is a tranquil space for a morning coffee.

The en-suite bathroom has a floor-to-ceiling marble finish, with a freestanding bathtub, double vanity sinks, and an expansive rainfall shower. While ESPA bath products are the bathroom amenity of choice.

Food & Drink

Due to my limited time at the hotel, I didn’t fully explore all the dining options, but the offerings are impressive and cater to both refined and casual tastes. The highlight is Terre, a two-Michelin-starred dining experience in the 17th-century Manor House, where Chef Vincent Crepel combines classical French techniques with Southeast Asian influences, complemented by wine or tea pairings.

Canopy Restaurant & Brasserie, located in the modern wing, provides a relaxed setting with a menu of contemporary Irish and international dishes created using local, seasonal ingredients within a nature-inspired setting with both indoor and outdoor seating.

I did enjoy breakfast in Canopy, which is served both à la Carte and Buffet, with a huge range of hot and cold breakfast items to choose from.

For drinks and lighter bites, the Knights Bar offers a stylish, classic space within the Manor House, while The Hunted Hog, the resort’s own traditional Irish pub just outside the gates, delivers hearty fare in a lively setting. The Clubhouse, beside the golf course, is a casual option with scenic views, perfect for golfers and families.

Spa & Gym

The Spa at Castlemartyr specialises in luxurious ESPA and Germaine de Capuccini treatments and products. Recognised as one of the most luxurious spa hotels in Ireland, this 24,400-square-foot space includes a 20-metre pool, expansive fitness centre and multiple treatment rooms.

Golf

The championship course designed by renowned golf course architect Ron Kirby, whose portfolio includes iconic layouts such as the Old Head and Mount Juliet in Ireland, as well as Gleneagles in Scotland. Designed for both challenge and enjoyment, the course is laid out in two returning loops of nine holes, with the front nine generally regarded as the more forgiving. Ideal for golfers of all abilities, the course offers strategic play with scenic beauty.

Final Thoughts

Set amidst the breathtaking scenery of East Cork, Castlemartyr Resort combines 18th-century elegance with modern luxury. With its world-class golf course, award-winning spa, and proximity to the famous Midleton Distillery, it offers a truly exceptional experience that promises to create lasting memories.