In Castlemartyr, the options range from short loops in the woods to trails through the resort’s historic garden. There is also the history of the castle after which the village is named, and a golf course with clearly defined playing options. When choosing your accommodation, you can consider whether woodland trails, heritage or golf matter most to you.
Woodland Trails and Walks
Castlemartyr Woods lie on the edge of the village. The easy Pigeon’s Wood Loop is 1 km long and takes 20 minutes on foot. The Mitchell’s Wood Loop is also easy: it covers 2.4 km and takes 50 minutes to walk. This gives you the choice between a shorter loop and a longer walk in the woods. There is also a picnic area in the woods; check its condition before your visit.
The easy Ladysbridge Loop offers a longer walk: its 4.7 km connect the villages of Castlemartyr and Ladysbridge, and it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to walk. Further trails in Castlemartyr Resort lead to different destinations. The Lake View Walk runs for 1.7 km around the resort lake. The Walled Garden Loop follows a 2 km route through the historic walled garden; the Village Loop, also 2 km long, runs through the local village. The lake, garden and village each give these loops a distinct focus.
If you would like to combine a walk with a historic destination, you can choose the 4 km Mitchell’s Wood & Ballyoughtera Church Ruins route. It leads to the old ruins of Ballyoughtera Church. This route adds a clear heritage destination to the shorter loops.
Castle, Manor House and Golf
The castle after which the village of Castlemartyr is named was built by the Knights Templar in 1210. Another historic feature of the area is the Manor House: it has been painstakingly restored to its original splendour and is now the centrepiece of Castlemartyr Resort. The resort also has restored parterre gardens. Together with the trail through the walled garden, these offer a particular reason to consider the history of the gardens and buildings when planning your visit.
Castlemartyr Golf Course is an 18-hole inland links-style course. It measures 6,728 yards and is par 72. Pay-and-play guests, golfers staying at the resort and golf societies are welcome. The course has a driving range. Private golf lessons are also offered by PGA-qualified professionals, either on the course or at the driving range. Lessons are subject to the operator’s arrangements; check the details in advance if you would like to include one in your plans.
Location and Getting There
Castlemartyr lies along the N25 between the East Cork towns of Midleton and Youghal. It is about a 20-minute drive from Cork City. For public transport, Castlemartyr Resort is accessible by bus: from Kent Station in Cork, the onward bus journey takes about 25 minutes. Alternatively, take the train from Kent Station to Midleton; the journey takes about 20 minutes. From there, it is about a 10-minute taxi ride to the resort. Check current connections and timetables before travelling.
The trails differ mainly in their length and where they lead: from a short woodland loop and a route around the resort lake to a trail that ends at church ruins. Golf is also a specific option, provided the course and its offerings suit your plans. This lets you choose Castlemartyr according to your interests, without combining its different trails and activities into a single itinerary.
Discover more destinations: Youghal, Páirc Na Fána, Ahakista, Bandon, Blarney, Baltimore, Clonakilty, Dunmanway
For the broader travel overview: Cork.
