Cork’s Castlemartyr Resort and Spa has been purchased by the owners of the luxury 5-star Sheen Falls Lodge in Kenmare, Co Kerry. Singapore-based Dr. Stanley Quek and Peng Loh have significant global interests in the hospitality sector and deep personal connections to Ireland. Castlemartyr is their third Irish hotel and joins the group that includes Sheen Falls Lodge in Kenmare and Trinity Townhouse in Dublin city centre.
Castlemartyr Resort and Spa employs 250 full and part-time staff in high season and is one of the largest employers in the East Cork region. The hotel opened in 2007 as a luxury Capella-branded 109-bedroom property. Set on 220 acres of formal gardens, pastures and woodlands, it comprises an historic 17th century manor house connected to an impressive glass-fronted contemporary wing that includes a state-of-the-art ESPA spa, fitness centre, a 20-metre swimming pool, as well as a grand ballroom and conference facilities.
Within the period Manor House (pictured) there are 11 individual suites and the 60-seater Bell Tower fine-dining restaurant that occupies 3 interconnected reception rooms overlooking formal gardens. Of great architectural importance is the restored chapel of the house, now used as a cocktail bar, which boasts an elaborate stucco ceiling designed by the famed Francini brothers.
Adjacent to the hotel, encircling 12th century castle ruins, is an 18-hole golf course designed by Ron Kirby. The course includes a modern clubhouse with dressing room facilities, a restaurant and shop.
Included in the purchase of Castlemartyr Resort and Spa and within the grounds are 38 self-catering cottages and lodges, a mix of two and three-bedroom properties which are popular with families and golfers.
Tom Marriott at HMH Golf & Leisure comments: “We orchestrated a covert marketing exercise in the spring of this year which generated 11 funded bids. Dr Quek’s bid was accepted in May and completion followed within 12 weeks. This sale demonstrates the ongoing strength of the market for successful businesses with underlying quality assets. Castlemartyr Resort is a magical place, full of character and opportunity. I know that The Resort will thrive under Stanley’s ownership.”
The Resort was purchased for an undisclosed sum.
Commenting on the purchase, Dr. Stanley Quek said: “We are very excited to be the new owners of Castlemartyr Resort and Spa. This is a very significant purchase for us and demonstrates our commitment and confidence in the Irish hospitality market. It is a beautiful country property, rich in history, and is an important employer and amenity in the local area.”
Peng Loh added: “Over the past five years, we have actively sought opportunities to add Irish hotels to our portfolio. Castlemartyr is a wonderful addition. It is an easily accessible hotel for the domestic and international market, with much charm and many attractions. We look forward to ensuring the continued success of the hotel.”