Set among 220 acres of woodland and lakes, surrounded by icons of County Cork’s rich history,
Castlemartyr Resort now boasts Ireland’s premier inland links-style golf course, and a one-of-a-kind clubhouse to match, at the
Castlemartyr Links Golf Club. This spectacular golfing experience, like the Resort as a whole, is unique in its masterful amalgamation of old and new. The setting is classic Irish countryside, picturesque and tranquil. Dotting the grounds of the estate – the seat of the Earl of Desmond and variously possessed by the Knights Templar, Sir Walter Raleigh and the first Earl of Cork – are the ruins of a thirteenth century castle, a Gregorian chapel, a swan lake, formal gardens and orchards,
and the seventeenth century Manor House itself, the centerpiece of this five-star resort. Complementing these historic treasures with its contemporary but respectful design is the stunning new accommodations, events, and spa and fitness wing.
As does its setting, the Castlemartyr Golf Club brilliantly blends tradition and modernity. Harkening back to golf’s beginnings, the course was molded in the classic tradition of inland links, with natural shaping of lows and hillocks to create unpredictable bounce and lies. Low greens encourage bump and run play; together with recessed, sometimes hidden bunkers, these features make the Castlemartyr course a fun and creative experience for those accustomed to parkland course play. Even those highly experienced in links play will find it a fair challenge, however, once Course Superintendent
Trevor Norris sets it up to – as he phrases it – “show its teeth.”
The course plays to a par of 72 over 6,800 yards from the back tees. But a few of the notable holes are long par 5 #8, and par 4 #9, which has a devious links-style burn running across the front of the green. The back nine has a delightful combination at numbers 11, 12 and 13, sited along the original walled estate gardens. Players are in for a surprise in trying to find the target with the third shot of the par 5 #11; hole 15 is a long par 5 of 570 yards with a dogleg left for interest; and golfers of all skill levels are wise to conserve energy for the long par 4 #18 hole with views to the ruins of the castle. Guests of the Resort – lovers of “The Great Game” and otherwise – have one more delightful discovery awaiting them at Castlemartyr Golf Club: The Members Clubhouse. Not only is it the lair of the exceedingly knowledgeable PGA Professional
Brady Sherwood, who stands ready to provide personalized coaching to players of all levels, it is also a design marvel. Debuted in 2008, the Clubhouse is bold and contemporary while honoring its setting.
Golfers seeking to explore more of western Ireland’s playing challenges will find Castlemartyr Resort the perfect home base for outings to other unforgettable courses. These include the Resort’s sister property in
The Dromoland Collection, Dromoland Castle, as well as
Old Head, Fota, Kenmare, Ballybunion and
Doonbeg. Castlemartyr Resort is located in Castlemartyr, Co. Cork, Ireland. The hotel can be contacted at: 011 353 21 4219000; website: www.castlemartyrresort.ie. Reservations can be made through the hotel (reception.castlemartyrresort.ie) or through The Dromoland Collection at: www.dromolandcollection.ie.