Family Breaks

Perfectly positioned for your family getaway, Castlemartyr Resort offers the ideal base whether you’re planning a visit to the vibrant city of Cork or looking to explore the stunning countryside of East Cork. With countless attractions nearby — and plenty to enjoy within our own 220-acre estate — your family break can be as relaxed or adventurous as you wish.

Many families find everything they need right here at the resort, yet as proud Corkonians, we love sharing the sights and activities that make our region so special (discover some of our favourites below). Choose from luxurious interconnecting hotel rooms for the utmost convenience or opt for extra space and freedom in our luxury Gate Houses and Orchard Residences.

During your stay, enjoy complimentary access to the Health Club, swimming pool, driving range, golf course, tennis courts, and the renowned Spa. Families can also explore the estate on foot or by complimentary resort bicycle, stopping to greet our resident horses and foals along the way.

For more information on family experiences and current offers, please see below or contact our team — we look forward to welcoming you to Castlemartyr Resort soon.

At mealtimes, families are truly spoilt for choice, with a variety of dining experiences to suit every palate. Enjoy relaxed, family-friendly dishes at Canopy Brasserie & Bar, Kirbys Clubhouse, and The Hunted Hog, our traditional village pub. For special occasions or a quiet meal for two, Canopy Restaurant serves a refined menu celebrating the best of modern Irish cuisine.

With a little advance notice, babysitting can be arranged for our younger guests, allowing adults to savour the exceptional tasting menu at our two Michelin-starred restaurant, Terre. Children can enjoy their own menus across our venues — and for an extra treat, the delightful Children’s Afternoon Tea in The Manor House is always a highlight.

Beyond the resort gates, unforgettable days out await. Just a short journey from Castlemartyr Resort lies one of Ireland’s most-loved attractions, Fota Wildlife Park. This is no ordinary zoo — here, animals roam freely in a natural, open environment where visitors can enjoy close encounters and see different species living side by side. Also on Fota Island, Fota House & Gardens is not to be missed. Families can wander through the beautifully landscaped, free-to-visit gardens, home to exotic plant collections from around the world, and enjoy a picnic on sun-soaked lawns.A little further along the coast lies the historic harbour town of Cobh, one of the world’s most picturesque natural ports. Explore the fascinating Cobh Heritage Centre, which brings the story of Irish emigration to life — a must for international visitors tracing their Irish roots. Families can also visit The Titanic Experience, marking Cobh’s poignant place as the Titanic’s final port of call, or take a short boat trip to Spike Island for an exciting day of discovery.

Along East Cork’s coastline, the stretch between Ballycotton and Garryvoe offers endless adventure. Set sail with Ballycotton Sea Adventures for a 90-minute guided tour of Ballycotton’s iconic black lighthouse and island — with the chance to spot dolphins and whales on the way.

Food-loving families will also enjoy exploring the nearby foodie havens of Ballycotton and Ballymaloe. Stop by the Ballymaloe Shop & Café in Shanagarry for Irish crafts and kitchenware, and discover a year-round calendar of family-friendly festivals and events at Ballymaloe and Sea Church Ballycotton.

For families drawn to the sea, Whale of a Time offers thrilling marine adventures across Cork Harbour — from Kinsale to Youghal — showcasing the region’s forts, rivers, coastal towns, and friendly dolphins who often follow along beside the boats.

And if your travels take you into Cork City, spend a day exploring its vibrant streets — from St. Finbarr’s Cathedral to the famous English Market, Nano Nagle Place, and Crawford Art Gallery. Take time to enjoy the cafés, boutique shops, and winding lanes. Active families will love walking through the grounds of University College Cork, visiting The Glucksman Gallery and Fitzgerald Park Museum, then crossing the historic “shaky bridge” to the Cork City Gaol Museum.

After a day full of adventure, return to Castlemartyr Resort, where a warm welcome — and a few little treats — await every member of the family.

For more information about our experiences, please see below or contact our team — we look forward to welcoming you soon.