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he charming 18th century manor house hotel at the five-star
Castlemartyr Resort is just a twenty-minute drive from the
vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Cork, yet it nestles amid 220
acres of breathtaking countryside; with woodland, rolling meadows and a
glistening lake providing the idyllic backdrop for this heavenly retreat.
Steeped in history, the magnificent hotel stands adjacent to 800-year-old
castle ruins, originally built by knights under Richard Earl de Clare. The
charming manor house has been beautifully restored and enhanced to offer
103 elegant rooms and suites, boasting luxurious furnishings, Italian linens
and high-tech flourishes such as touch-panel control for lighting and
drapes.
With an inland links-style golf course designed by Ron Kirby, fabulous
wining and dining, a host of resort activities and an incredible spa, the
resort is popular with couples, families and groups alike. Its combination of
innovative interior design and world-class facilities has attracted celebrities
including Beyoncé and Jay-Z who, I’m told, enjoyed the most opulent of
all the suites — the Presidential — with its silk-lined bedroom walls, private
sauna and sumptuous living areas.
There’s something for everyone at this Irish gem; with a host of activities
including clay pigeon shooting, archery, croquet, strolls through the
woodland trails with the adorable resort dogs Earl and Countess, boating
on the lake and pony and trap rides around the vast estate. Weekend
visitors can step back in time and trace the steps of Sir Walter Raleigh with
a tour around the ancient castle ruins and manicured gardens, while
children are treated like little lords and ladies of the manor, with their own
Kids Zone packed full of activities. For adventure-seekers, outdoor pursuits
— including fishing, sailing, nature tours and quad biking — are all
available nearby and the concierge team are only too happy to assist in
making arrangements for you.
Spa enthusiasts will be in seventh heaven in the peaceful surroundings of
The Spa at Castlemartyr; a 24,400-square foot state-of-the-art wellness
center. If you’re after a pampering sojourn, choose from the extensive range
of treatments, such as the signature Gaelic Escape massage, which
uses the exclusive Anne Sémonin product range. The stylish treatment
rooms induce total relaxation, with two being designed especially for
couples to enjoy a massage together — the perfect prop for rekindling the
romance in your relationship! Guests can also enjoy swimming in the
ozone-treated pool, relaxing in the sauna and steam room, taking yoga or
Pilates classes or simply soaking up the views from the comfort of a
poolside day bed.
Gourmets will adore the elegant Bell Tower restaurant with its exquisite,
locally-sourced seasonal menu, impressive wine list and breathtaking views
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JET SET
1011947-C1 (9 x 10.875) CREEP: none (96+4 pages) p. 28
CASTLEMARTYR
RESORT
Escape to an Elegant
Manor House Retreat in
County Cork, IrelandBy Madison Freeman
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