Take shelter next to a rugged coastline

THE ATLANTIC comes crashing almost to the door, and a stream feeds from a lake to the ocean. There's dunes to hand, surfing for the brave, forest walks, headlands bookended by a lighthouse: welcome to Long Strand.

Up for sale in a sheltered spot by this rugged mile-long west Cork beach is a traditional two-storey dwelling, tucked down low out of the way of the winds.

Selling agent is Jim O'Brien of CCM Property Services, who has it under offer at €325,000 and who says the two-bed home is on a third of an acre. His enquiries on it to date have come from two distinct camps: holiday home hunters and permanent residents keen on the glories of the great outdoors.

Location is at Donour, Castlefreke, five miles from Rosscarbery and six miles from Clonakilty, while Kilkern lake is almost next door and feeds out to the sea in front of this property.

In good overall condition, it also has two reception rooms, bathroom and kitchen, and some outbuildings.