Castlemartyr Resort

5 star location all around. Amazing estate, luxurious rooms, and amazing staff. They went out of their way in every instance to be accommodating and provide top-​notch service. Really lovely.

We’re staying here on a whim as we make our way around Ireland, and I still can not get over the bang for buck value at Castlemartyr. There are some reviews that this is not a true 5-​star experience, and while I understand why they clearly are also not considering what they charge for this magnificent property. My first thought upon checking in was what did we pay for this place? Then we realized, it was really not much… less than a typical night (not weekend) stay in Napa.
The property is spectacular, and seemingly well kept. There is a new contemporary meets old world elegance on this property that few have done so well (Cavallo Point in Sausalito comes to mind). The rooms are situated in a modern contemporary wing, while the main manor sits proud with old world elegance. The highlight of this property without doubt is its grounds, and they are astounding, charming and romantic. I especially enjoyed the garden setting and the outdoor hiking trails. The spa and gym are fantastic as well. We also enjoyed dinner at the Belltower restaurant, and the food was prepared better than most hotel kitchens and on or above par with most michelin star restaurants. Service was a little lackluster (see below), but don’t let that stop you.
Our room was clean, comfortable and luxurious. Pressed white linens, fluffed pillows, a heavy comforter. Everything seemed to have had a once over, and designed to impress. Even the wifi is blisteringly fast considering the size of this property. I was especially suspect of this as we stayed in another Castle property in Tuscany and the wifi experience there was terrible.
Finally, although I’m giving Castlemartyr 5 stars, I wanted to add a counterpoint to it’s shine and a justification. I did not experience any issue with the staff, and service was on point — I can see how they could be perceived as rude or even slow, in reality they just seem barely understaffed. Also, when I reached for the toilet paper the roll fell down, then the rod, and finally the piece that connects to the connection bolted in the wall. It was a ‘wtf’ moment, but it was put back together and over-​all not a big deal. Not ever bar is staffed, and there is not a team of 3 waiting on you for dinner. Castlemartyr has all the foundations of being a true 5 star resort, but to do so they would also, and justifiably so, be charging north of $ 500‑1000 per night. At $ 250/​300/​nt or whatever we’re paying this place is a STEAL, and thus 5-​stars w/​o question. Come stay here, and stay often. It’s a bargain at this rate.

The Castlemartyr resort is outstanding… truly an amazing 5-​Star experience. If you make it to Ireland on travel, I strongly recommend you take the time to visit Cork and stay at the resort. My family (wife and 3 children) had the pleasure of staying at the resort for 3 nights, and everything about it was top notch.
It is set on gorgeous property, including rolling hills, a beautiful golf course, with pastures for horses and miles of beautiful hikes. In addition, they have sensational facilities, from outstanding food (awesome restaurant), to a gorgeous indoor pool, as well as a fully equipped gym (and spa).
The staff was attentive, kind, considerate, friendly and overall outstanding. The rooms were spacious, well equipped and a great value for the money (while it is an expensive resort, there is great value for the money).
They are incredibly kid friendly, and there are lots of fun things for the kids to do.
In particular, we loved the Knight’s Bar (fully stocked and gorgeous), the sensational menu at the restaurant, the awesome staff, indoor swimming pool with fantastic view, and the big rooms. 5-​Stars!

I was fortunate enough to be taken here by my wife and daughter for Father’s day weekend — now, that’s what I’m talkin about. WOW! This place is incredible. From the horses and ponies grazing in front to the unbelievable spa — with pool and jacuzzi — we were the only people swimming for a while and lost ourselves in imagining that this place belonged to us — luxurious and wonderful. The only thing better then the setting was the room. When can I move in. A vast space with wood floors, bar, a huge walk in closet, marbled bathroom, shower and separate tub and dog friendly, too. Our room had a little garden that we could come or go from so our dog did not have to walk through the hotel. When we got back from dinner he was reclining in the biggest and most comfortable bed ever. And kid friendly, as well. Kids are treated like royalty with their own robes and slippers and a game room (though you need other kids to make this work). My daughter loved feeding the horses carrots and apples. The whole experience is best described as lovely — even the restaurant was good. Now mind you, nothing comes cheap here, but if you can manage even a few days, it is truly worth it (says the guy who did not pay). Go — It is the most wonderfully relaxing resort.