Renovated lodge house in famed, picturesque Adare

THERE are areas in the country where property prices are head and shoulders above average — even in a downturn.

Alongside chocolate box estate cottages and ornate, neo-Gothic houses, Adare has more than its share of McMansions, some of which are on the market for millions. Coming back down to earth, and in line with the style of the little village, Fernlea Lodge is a renovated, 2,500 square foot property selling for €700,000.

And before readers splutter into their cornflakes, this house was purchased in poor condition for €500,000 and lots of money has been spend since then.

It will still need some finishing, according to agent, Tony Barry, of CCM Property Services, but, considering it’s location and a leafy, mature site of an acre, it’s a modest ask by Adare standards, he says.

The house is bounded by its own, old stone walls with a line of sentinel beeches.

Fernlea has been extended by its vendors and now has a layout that stands up to modern standards.

Located at Curraghbridge, it’s a two-storey lodge house that’s probably close to 200 years old and with walls up to two feet thick in parts, says Barry.

On mature gardens, with plenty of potential and in a tranquil setting, the house is well within commuting distance of Limerick city and is minutes from Adare village.

It comes with three bedrooms, including a master suite on the upper level, with two more bedrooms and a bathroom on the ground floor.

In terms of reception rooms, there’s good space and the option to convert one of the living rooms to an extra bedroom, if necessary.

These include an extra large kitchen, a sitting room, TV room and living room, with French doors to the gardens.

“As the property is under renovation, it is an ideal time for a buyer to bring out their own personal touch,” says Tony Barry.

Fernlea Lodge is 15 minutes from Limerick and one hour from Cork city.