Castlemartyr: Woodland Walks, Golf and History

Castlemartyr offers clear points of interest for a stay: woodlands on the edge of the village, routes of varying lengths, golf and historical connections. The routes differ in distance and sometimes in their stated walking times; the village’s location and specific travel options are also worth considering.

Woodland Walks and Strolls

Castlemartyr Woods are on the edge of the village. There is a picnic area in the woods; conditions there can change, so check before your visit. The Pigeon’s Wood Loop is 1 km long, easy, and takes 20 minutes on foot. The Mitchell’s Wood Loop is also easy; at 2.4 km and a walking time of 50 minutes, it is the longer of the two woodland loops.

Other routes lead to a variety of destinations. The Lake View Walk runs for 1.7 km around the lake at Castlemartyr Resort. The 2 km Village Loop passes through the local village. The 4.7 km Ladysbridge Loop connects the villages of Castlemartyr and Ladysbridge; it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to walk. The 4 km Mitchell’s Wood & Ballyoughtera Church Ruins route leads to the old ruins of Ballyoughtera Church.

History and Gardens

The castle after which the village of Castlemartyr is named was built by the Knights Templar in 1210. The Manor House is now the centrepiece of Castlemartyr Resort and has been extensively restored to its former splendour. The Walled Garden Loop is another way to explore the gardens: the 2 km route passes through the resort’s historic walled garden. Castlemartyr Golf & Spa Resort also has restored parterre gardens.

Golf in Castlemartyr

Castlemartyr Golf Course is an 18-hole inland links-style course measuring 6,728 yards, with a par of 72. The course welcomes pay-and-play visitors, golf guests staying at the resort, and golf societies. These are the visitor groups specified.

The course has a driving range. Private golf lessons are offered by PGA-qualified professionals and take place on the course or at the driving range. Lessons depend on arrangements with the operator; the driving range’s availability may also change. If you are planning a round or lessons, check both with the provider in advance.

Location and Getting There

Castlemartyr is located along the N25 between the East Cork towns of Midleton and Youghal. Cork City is about a 20-minute drive away. There are two public transport options to consider when travelling to Castlemartyr Resort: from Kent Station in Cork, there is a bus connection that takes about 25 minutes. Alternatively, the train from Kent Station to Midleton takes about 20 minutes, followed by a taxi ride of about 10 minutes to the resort. Check connections before travelling so you can factor the approximate journey times into your plans.

Discover more destinations: Fermoy, Midleton, Castletown-Bearhaven, Blarney, Carrigtohill, Doneraile, Cork, Innishannon.

Return to the main travel overview: Cork.