Embracing views of Co Waterford's sandy bays and rugged cliffs are two properties for sale - one a €700,000 waterfront home at Whiting Bay, Ardmore and the other a charming old rectory in Ardmore village with a price tag of €2.5 million. Both properties are being sold through local agent Brian Gleeson of Liam Gleeson & Sons.
Ardmore, an attractive seaside village located between Dungarvan and Youghal, previously held the national title in the Tidy Towns competition. Visitors and house hunters are drawn to its pristine beaches, monastic ruins and relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It has also escaped the rampant development of seaside homes that blights other towns and villages in the south-east.
The coastal cottage, built on three acres in the late 1870s, has stunning sea views and a prime position on a long stretch of sandy beach.
The cut-stone main house has two bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen, sittingroom, oil-fired central heating and double-glazed PVC windows.
With a touch of flair and some imagination, buyers could transform the accommodation, incorporating two additional structures that together make up the U-shaped property.
It would suit full-time residents or regular holiday makers seeking a luxury beach escape.
Those seeking a more traditional country house may find just what they are looking for down the road at The Old Rectory, a prestigious period house with ocean and hinterland views.
Nestled under the gaze of Ardmore Round Tower, the property dates back to the 18th century but local historians believe there may have been a dwelling on this site dating as far back as the 12th century.
The home was completely renovated in 1991-'92 and has since undergone further restoration.
Currently run as a guest-house and holistic therapy centre, there are two formal reception rooms, a family room and a traditional country kitchen.
Each of the four bedrooms has an adjoining bathroom and was named according to its unique interior.
With a slipper bath and a view of the Round Tower, the blue bedroom has a strong romantic appeal.
The chintz bedroom takes in sweeping views of Ardmore while the green bedroom offers views as far as the head of Ardmore and further afield.
At the lower level there is a large sealed and dry cellar, ideal for those with an impressive wine collection.
An annex, added as part of the renovation in 1990-'91, was designed for open-plan living with a kitchen/dining space and two furnished en suite bedrooms.
A third bedroom with en suite is currently being used as the holistic therapy centre.
The annex is linked to the main building via a double doored lobby area and, conveniently, has its very own entrance and services.
The property could be bought as either a family home or by someone who wishes to continue running the guest-house. It is 50kms east of Cork city, 10kms from Youghal and around 14kms from Dungarvan.
