28 AFFLUENT MAGAZINE

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

T

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

1

2

3

4

28-29 1011947-C1_Layout 1 10/25/10 3:33 PM Page 2