February is the perfect time of year to plan a luxurious staycation in Ireland and pick up a bargain five star stay and with Valentines in the middle a great excuse for a treat. I enjoyed my own Galentines Trip to Castlemartyr with my daughter, Nicole before Christmas and this is how we got on…
It’s been five years since my last visit to Castlemartyr Resort in Cork and there have been some big changes. The new extension with 94 rooms and a large reception area is just one of these but I’m pleased to find the charm of the original 18 th century manor house, extends throughout.
For my daughter, Nicole, it’s her first time to visit so I know she’s in for a treat. We start off our stay at the Knight’s Bar, given its name from the Knights Templar that built the original Castlemartyr Castle in 1210. We settle into Afternoon Tea and the experience is made
especially nice as we are serenaded by the sweet tones from harpist, Eimear Coughlan. Our table is next to a glowing fire that oozes the cosiness we all yearn for in the Irish winter. An eclectic mix of contemporary portraits and paintings blend seamlessly in with the Georgian
décor in this serene and comfortable bar. Modern art hangs on the walls in the corridors as we get our bearings and pass unique and colourful sculptures making every inch of the hotel a sensory delight.
The state-of-the-art fitness studio and swimming pool overlook the manicured gardens making it tempting to get fit. But we slip off to the award-winning spa to sample an indulgent ESPA treatment with a specialised wellness area including steam room, sauna and divine relaxation area. We don’t get a chance to use the tennis courts but in summer it’s a lovely option on site. In Ireland most top of the range hotels offer golf and Castlemartyr Resorts course is designed by the renowned Ron Kirby. For golfers a two night stay is essential to try out this unique inland links-style golf course and driving range. We enjoy a ramble around the grounds and tailored walled garden but there are a choice of walks available, especially popular for guests who bring along their pets. In fact Castlemartyr is a gold medal award winner for best pet friendly hotel in Ireland.
For dinner we have a selection of dining options within the resort, including the two-Michelin-star awarded fine dining Terre Restaurant by Chef Patron Vincent Crepel. Nicole and I eat in the Canopy Restaurant headed by Resort Executive Head Chef Kevin Burke. The menu includes something for everyone and uses seasonal ingredients – we start with the west cork crab and smoked salmon. Keeping it fishy I opt for the halibut with mussels in shellfish bisque and Nicole chooses the wintery Wicklow venison. Canopy Restaurant is spacious and stylish and the perfect setting for a celebratory dinner.
Other dining options include the Castlemartyr Resort Golf Club House or Castlemartyr Resort’s local traditional pub, The Hunted Hog in Castlemartyr village, for a delicious menu of popular dishes. Beyond the hotel gates a wide range of activities await to be explored. The Jameson Distillery in Middleton and the beautiful Ballycotton Cliff Walk are two of the most popular attractions. Cork city is only thirty minutes away and Youghal less than twenty minutes in the opposite direction.
Our room in the new wing is plush with a large marble bathroom and exquisite details. The dressing area is spacious with fabulous tea and coffee making facilities much to Nicole’s delight. In fact the room is so gorgeous we opt for breakfast in bed next morning and what a treat that turns out to be. Castlemartyr Resort Hotel is a perfect destination for a mum and daughter trip like ours but also equally suitable for a couple’s escape. The warmth and friendliness of the staff make it a stay that you’ll want to return to.
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To Book your stay see www.castlemartyrresort.ie
Hearts and Haven Package
Escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect with someone you love with the Hearts and Havens package. Relax and unwind in the Spa together, stroll hand-in-hand by the lake or sit back and enjoy a scrumptious cocktail in the stylish Knights Bar, before returning to a
luxurious room where a chocolates and rose petals turn down await. Enjoy a delicious breakfast in bed or enjoy it in the scenic dining area of Canopy Restaurant, making the most of your memorable getaway before departure.
Prices start from €239 per room based on two adults sharing a Deluxe Guest Room midweek or
€299 at the weekend.
Luxurious overnight accommodation in a Deluxe Guest Room with full Irish breakfast
in the Canopy Restaurant each morning.
Romantic turndown service each evening with chocolates and rose petals.
Complimentary use of the Castlemartyr Resort Health & Country Club.
Spoil that special someone at Castlemartyr Resort
Celebrate love with an opulent two-night retreat designed to spoil and delight that special person in your life. Begin your romantic journey with a glass of bubbles and chocolate dipped strawberries upon arrival, setting the tone for a magical stay ahead. Savour an intimate three
course dinner in Canopy Restaurant before retiring to your room to a lavish rose petals and chocolates turndown. Each morning, enjoy breakfast overlooking the magnificent grounds, ensuring every detail of your stay is infused with romance.
Prices start from €759 for two nights based on two adults sharing a Deluxe Guest Room.
Luxurious overnight accommodation in a Deluxe Guest Room with full Irish breakfast
in Canopy Restaurant each morning.
Prosecco and chocolate dipped strawberries in your room on arrival.
Romantic dinner for two in Canopy Restaurant on an evening of choice.
Romantic turndown service each evening.
Complimentary use of the Castlemartyr Resort Health & Country Club.
For more information or to make a reservation, please phone 021 421 9000 or email
[email protected].
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