UPPING STICKS FOR a quiet life in the countryside is often the dream for those yearning to escape the noise of a bustling town or city.
And, as we all know, Ireland is dotted with traditional, as well as modern, countryside homes that might just give house hunters the peace they crave.
With plenty of space, generous acreage and a whole host of modern additions within, here’s our edit of four farmhouses that don’t hold back on countryside character. And, who knows, they might even encourage some farm-to-fork action, too.
Carrick-on-Suir, Co Tipperary
Located outside the village of Ahenny, just 11km from the Norman town of Carrick-on-Suir, is a charming farmhouse that does things in fours. Four bedrooms and four bathrooms make up the main house and outbuildings, while it also sits on four acres of land.
A character-filled farmhouse that’s in good nick, at every turn The Slate Quarry nods to the quarries that provided about 10% of Ireland’s slate in the mid 19th century. Its beautiful stone facade is mirrored within. Well-maintained brickwork, sash windows and wood-burning stoves exude countryside vibes, while central heating and modern cooking appliances bring things up to date.
Doolin, Co Clare
The Doolin House could pique the interest of those with a lean toward contemporary Irish design and craft. Designed by the award-winning Grafton Architects for the visual artist Matthew O’Connell and his wife, Mary Gray, a jewellery designer, this four-bedroom home, sitting on half an acre, embraces the natural light, a modern interior and even views of the Cliffs.
Just 800 metres from Doolin village, no doubt drives along the Wild Atlantic Way, Aran Island trips and plenty of surf will be on the agenda for whoever’s lucky enough to buy this unique home.
Nenagh, Co Tipperary
Sitting on 29 acres with views of the Silvermine Mountains, Bayly Farm is an impressive seven-bedroom Georgian farmhouse that has been newly extended with the addition of a modern wing. Spread over two storeys, the main house includes three reception rooms, a nicely-sized farmhouse kitchen and ample store rooms for that dream pantry.
Just 4 km from the town of Nenagh, Bayly Farm is rural but not in complete isolation, making it a peaceful home suited to relaxed family life. This home’s close proximity to Lough Derg means there’s no shortage of water activities to take advantage of, too.
Skibbereen, Co Cork
Those with green fingers may want to consider taking a look at this four-bedroom, two-bathroom farmhouse sitting on 2.5 acres in picturesque west Cork, just three miles from Ballydehob and five from Skibbereen town. As if being surrounded by a paddock, a field and a mature garden wasn’t enough, Land of Lyre also enjoys a polytunnel, orchard and a fruit enclosure.
An extensive renovation meant that the property’s former milking parlour and pigsty received star treatment. Now home to a farmhouse-style kitchen with an Aga, along with a studio, this inviting space connects to the main house seamlessly. Views of the countryside and glimpses of Mount Gabriel and Roaring Water Bay are the icing on the cake.
It’s on the market for €565,000.
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