Castlemartyr Resort

The spa signature treatment was heavenly, and the warm, quiet room afterwards was so peaceful. We also had a cosy, beautifully presented bedroom and really delicious food with plenty of choice. I stayed with friends last weekend, and everything from check-in to leaving was a fabulous experience. I’d happily recommend Castlemartyr Hotel for a getaway.

Valentine’s Day afternoon tea was a real pleasure. They even had a little box of chocolates for each of us, which was a lovely extra. The service was fantastic, and they accommodated allergies without hesitation. The food had a great selection and was very nice, with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and a good price. The grounds feel natural and look stunning, the decor is beautiful, and the fires were a lovely touch too.

Dinner was fantastic, and I’d come back just for the food. The staff were great, which is why I’m still giving it four stars, but the cold rooms and dusty surfaces were disappointing, and our towels had makeup stains. It’s a superb location, though the whole hotel felt cold, even the leisure spa area. The spa itself also disappointed: there was one pool and a jacuzzi listed for four people, but it really only fits two unless you want strangers touching you.

We were delighted with the room, spacious and comfortable, beautifully decorated, and with a bathroom to die for. The exceptional young woman from Ballymacoda at reception charmed us, and a courteous young Dutch man was a bright spot among staff who otherwise seemed indifferent. But we expected higher standards from a five-star place. On a wet, windy Saturday evening before Christmas, a doorman shouted at us to move from the main entrance while we were unloading luggage. In the bar, what was called “Seafood” chowder was a bowl of milk with bits of fish swimming in it, and my husband’s chicken pate left a lot to be desired. Breakfast was another letdown: canteen furniture, plus a plastic jungle hanging over the buffet counter with all kinds of things hanging down and falling off. The weather and winter season meant we couldn’t enjoy the lovely surroundings. Sitting by the empty piano in the bar, we wondered where the Christmas spirit was. It felt dull, almost dreary, and someone playing could have done wonders for the festive season.