DG IRELAND TOP150 – 2024
CASTLEMARTYR
Editor, Kevin Markham
When Castlemartyr first opened (2007) it was designed to play like a links. It has that low rhythmic flow and spaciousness that makes links golf so enjoyable, but the wind will be far less of a burden here as you target the generous fairways and silken greens.
That’s because the boundary of the course is deep woodland. The combination, along with the five star resort, promises elegant and entertaining golf.
The openness of the fairways means your draw or fade will rarely be threatened, so open your shoulders and drive to your heart’s content. But, a word of warning, the bumps and ridges bordering fairways are home to deep rough and are not to be trifled with. A small creek also runs across several holes and must be avoided,
especially on the front nine (2, 4, 7, 8, 9)… and the enigmatic par-5 11th.
Castlemartyr is smartly routed around the resort’s magnificent hotel, including the luxurious Manor House which dates back to the 17th century and is now home to Terre, a Michelin starred restaurant.
Investment in the course continues: greenside bunkers have recently been upgraded, with the new style favouring a pot-hole design; swathes of gorse have been removed to open up the course; and enhancements to fairway drainage are underway.
Favourite Hole
The par four 16th has the best views from the corner
of the course, and the tip of the flag is visible in
front of old castle walls.
What’s in the Bag?
Accuracy over length, but you can swing away if
you prefer. Look out for the castle on the drive in: it
was first built in 1210 by The Knights Templar.
Direct link to feature; https://joom.ag/LVnd/p88
Website; Castlemartyr Resort | Luxury 5* Hotels Cork | Official Website