In a stunning shoreside location on Barrow Harbour, this beautifully renovated property dates back to 1723 and was once home to the Knight of Kerry.
It was acquired in 2016 by an enthusiastic young owner, Daragh McDonogh, who returned from London to breathe new life into this lovely place - and, thanks to her stylish eye for colour and original artwork by both Irish and international artists, it now has a simple sophistication that is very alluring.
Despite occasional reminders of the modern world from a nearby road, the house has largely retained its unique tranquil setting - it is set on two and a half acres of private land, with its own jetty and beach for guest swimming or watersports. The focus is on the tidal bay, wth its constantly changing sea- and landscapes, and birds including egrets and herons nest in the wooded gardens.
Rooms vary, as they do in any old property, but - while some rooms are larger than others, and some may not have 'the view' - all of the accommodation is designed, in Daragh's own words 'with comfort and luxury in mind' - super king size goose down feather duvets grace the uber-comfortable beds and original artwork has been chosen with care for each of the pleasingly simple rooms. Everything is just as it should be and top quality hairdryers and straighteners are provided, also luxury toiletries in the well designed shower rooms and bathrooms.
Common areas - all with wonderful views across water to the Slieve Mish Mountains and Dingle peninsula - include a period drawing room, library and a projector room that is ideal for business meetings or small conferences as well as private showings.
Breakfast is taken country house style, around a large communal table, and includes house blend coffee, a buffet of fresh fruits, yoghurts buffet and cereals, and hot dishes including 'The Full Irish', cooked to order. No dinner, but there's a choice of good restaurants nearby (see recommendations under Fenit, Spa and Tralee) and Daragh offers bespoke picnic hampers of local artisan foods for guests who prefer not to eat out.
Angling and golf are major attractions here - the Arnold Palmer designed Tralee Golf Club is next door and Killarney, Ballybunion and Waterville are within range - and there are many other activities available in the area, or that can be arranged privately for guests.
A very special place.
