With its rolling green hills and verdant valleys, Ireland is a picturesque place to purchase a luxury country home, and its breath-taking vistas and quaint historical villages never fail to surprise.
One of the country’s many charms is the fact that it has managed to defiantly retain its heritage and charm over the years – something that is evident in the range of beautiful and historical properties that can be found on the market today.
From majestic castles to magnificent mansions, there’s certainly no shortage on choice – and combined with the warm and welcoming folk you will often come across in Ireland, it’s a lovely place to call home.
We’ve rounded up the top four luxury homes currently available to purchase in Ireland – prepare to have your appetite whet, because these places aim to impress. Tempted? It’s time to get that wallet out. And don’t forget that home insurance in Ireland is as important as anywhere else in the world. In fact, you can get the best online home insurance quotes from the AA, one of Ireland’s most trusted insurance companies and find the right insurance cover for your individual needs.
10 room luxury House, Dublin
Located on the banks of the beautiful Blackwater River – a hotspot for salmon fishing – this stunning and historic ten-bedroom home, dating back to 1801, will take your breath away. Especially designed so that almost all rooms enjoy a scenic river view, it was renovated over a four year period, starting in 1999, to become the sought-after property it is today. Designed in the style of Palladio – the work of renowned architect, Douglas Heyd – this spacious abode, listed with Knight Frank, oozes glamour and sophistication, and will set the successful buyer back a cool 20,000,000 Euros.
‘Luggala’ 7 bedroom luxury House, Roundwood
This exquisite 18th century home, known as Luggala, can be found nested in a secluded Irish valley, surrounded by rolling green hills and set in a sprawling estate of over 5,000 acres of land. It has previously been frequented by the likes of writers Brendan Behan and Seamus Heaney, actors and directors such as John Hurt and Dennis Hopper, and renowned musicians including Mick Jagger, Marianne Faithful and Bono – and just one look at it is enough to understand why.
Reminiscent in style of a grand castle but on a much smaller and more liveable scale, it boasts a range of charming features and facilities. Rooms look south across a verdant sward, often replete with grazing deer, towards a beautiful private lake, complete with a white sandy beach and boathouse. A truly special purchase if you can spare the 28,000,000 Euros – and it’s currently available through Sotheby’s.
Knockdrin Castle, Mullingar, County Westmeath
A majestic eighteenth-century Gothic Revival castle set in 1,000 acres of sprawling and verdant parkland, Knockdrin Castle truly is a residence fit for royalty. Built by Sir Richard Levinge around 1810, this opulent abode is blessed with large windows and bright rooms that are bathed in natural light. Reception rooms on the ground floor include a reception hall, drawing room, dining room, ballroom and library. Its 7 bedrooms include the Crown Bedroom, where British Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill stayed during the War of Independence.
Knockdrin Castle is listed with Sotheby’s, and will set you back 12,000,000 Euros.
Grangecon Demesne and Stud, Grangecon, County Wicklow
One of the great estates in county Wicklow with a rich and colourful history and a proven equestrian provenance, Grangecon enjoys a privileged position between the picturesque Grangecon village and a striking valley glen, just 32miles south of Dublin city.
This historic demesne estate is an equestrian lover’s dream, boasting a range of elite facilities, an exceptional breeding record for racehorses and a charming Tudor residence at its heart. From the rolling parkland that surrounds it to the immaculately maintained stone walls, there’s no denying its rural charm – and combined with luxury accommodation comprising five spacious bedroom suites and an adjoining apartment that is perfect for guests, plus three gate lodges – it’s a smart investment for anyone looking to make County Wicklow their new home in the country.
Listed with Sotheby’s at 28,000,000 Euros, this extravagant estate is the height of luxury in every way.
