This coastal property lies just outside the town of Westport in the popular Rosbeg area, with sweeping views over Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick. The property has been home to the Clarke family for three generations, and as current owners Louise and Derek Clarke want to downsize, the property is on the market with an asking price of €795,000 through estate agent Tuohy O’Toole.
Dating from the 1820s, Marine Villa is a fine-sized family home standing at 300sq m. The kitchen is modern and is in what was the original glasshouse, with pitch pine flooring, iroko worktops and a large Belfast sink. The lack of upper shelving lends a Scandinavian feel to the room. A sunny breakfast room is heated by a stove and full-height windows look out over the garden and Clew Bay.
Both the drawingroom and livingroom have original pine floors with bay windows complete with window seats and large fireplaces. A large playroom lies to the rear of the house, as does an office and large scullery. A further room used as storage has evidence of Derek’s father’s passion as an amateur collector of small arms, with (empty) mahogany gun cases adorning the walls. This room, in need of a facelift, would make a great home cinema.
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Upstairs, a small bedroom was removed to open up the landing and provide an open living space. Two large bedrooms with sea views, a family bathroom, and two smaller bedrooms complete this floor.
There is some renovation required at Marine Villa. While the reception rooms are beautifully presented, the house lacks central heating and windows are single glazed. The two-foot- thick walls have allowed generations to live comfortably enough though. The 1.3-acre gardens are wonderful, with mature planting and an old orchard.
Two courtyards lie to the rear, complete with cobbled stone underfoot, and two stables would make a lovely conversion project for the new owners.
While there is some work ahead for potential buyers of Marine Villa, the location is very desirable and it would make great family home for anyone with a love of the sea as the property is just 90m from the water’s edge.
