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dream home
Live on your own private island: Explore this elegant riverside hideaway for €2.25m
Island House sits on nine acres of private gardens surrounded by the River Shannon.
FOR MANY PEOPLE, the idea of owning an island is the ultimate signifier of wealth and luxury.
If you have a couple of million euro to spare, that dream could become a reality with the sale of Island House in Co Limerick.
On the market for €2,250,000 through Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers, Island House sits on Cloon Island – a nine-acre hideaway which is formed by a breakaway section of the River Shannon.
It is accessed via a private stone castellated bridge, with a winding tree-lined driveway leading to the house. With mature trees surrounding the grounds, the level of serenity here makes it easy to forget that the property is on the edge of Castleconnell Village, which is just a quick five-minute walk away.
The residence is believed to have first been built as a fishing lodge in 1826, and was purchased by its current owners in 1985. Adding further interest to the island, the ruins of Cloon Church are also located here. It is thought to date right back to the 11th century, and is believed to have been used as a Franciscan friary in 1291.
When purchased by its current owners, a major building project was carried out to transform Island House into a home suitable for modern living. Originally, the bedrooms were located across two levels, the kitchen was downstairs and the dining room was upstairs.
Today, the property is a magnificent six-bed home with original features and an elegant country-style feel. There are six bedrooms and three bathrooms at garden level, with the kitchen, dining and reception rooms on the first floor.
A wine cellar was constructed at basement level, while a spectacular two-storey domed conservatory was built at the back of the house. A study was also built and is accessed via a spiral staircase in the family room.
To allow for elevated views of the river and across the landscape, an upstairs balcony was constructed to the rear of the house. A double staircase leads from here to the garden, where there’s a large gravel patio area and an expansive lawn.
Despite the many modern updates, Island House is filled with character and charm, with period features including original fireplaces, patterned mahogany doors, feature cornicing and flooring in a number of rooms.
Alongside the building works, the grounds were also updated to include more flowers, shrubs and trees. There is no shortage of space to unwind or entertain on Cloon Island, or to enjoy a peaceful walk along the river or through the gardens.
As for Castleconnell village, there is a selection of cafes, pubs and restaurants to enjoy here, as well as creches and a primary school. The drive to Limerick city is a quick 20 minutes, or you can get a train from the village.
With a private nine acre island, picturesque grounds and an outstanding interior, Island House is sure to be a dream come true for its lucky buyer.
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