Sheep’s Head beauty

The spectacular views are just one of great things about this Sheep’s Head home, writes Rose Martin

THERE are two sides to the Sheep’s Head peninsula — and it’s not just geography. The southern side with its connection to Durrus and Goleen has heavy throughput from the summer set, walkers and tourists, while the northern side of the peninsula has a quieter, more remote feel.

Not quite night and day, but very different in terms of density and outlook, and if you’re looking for a place in which to disappear — then this is it.

Wild expanses, embracing sea views and narrow circuitous routes over the mountains make for a place out of time.

Tom McCarthy of Mac Estate Agents in Bantry is currently selling a high-end hideaway for less than 50% of its original asking price. The Fahane, Gearies property is set on a private, elevated site with superb views.

“I was taken myself when it comes to the views — that’s what the height of this property gives — a really panoramic show,” says Mr McCarthy.

And that’s high praise from someone who lives in an area where such vistas are commonplace.

Originally an old stone farmhouse, the Fahane house is a luxury, three-bed house with separate two bed guest cottage on a private acre site, which is accessed off the main road and set behind electric gates.

As the crow flies it’s only a kilometre from the sea, but the views are astonishing — all the way up and down Bantry Bay and across to the Beara Peninsula.

And to make the most of this vista, the house has been cleverly redesigned, or more correctly, rebuilt with a large, top floor living space that incorporates two glass gables.

The first faces north over the sea and the second faces due west over the peninsula and is perfectly placed to catch the evening sun setting behind the hills of Beara.

The main house and guest cottage form a sheltered courtyard in the lee of a hill, and between the two is a large, decked area with salt-water hot-tub. This has a wooden, pagoda covering — all quite tasteful and designed to reduce the impact that these large, fibreglass tubs usually make.

Inside, the main house the living area runs the length and breadth of the upper floor, with discrete dining, kitchen and living space and the bedrooms are placed on the ground floor, each one en suite. The living room is not over styled — it relies on exposed blond wood beams, polished floors with scatter rugs and sensible (for a holiday home) wood and leather furniture.

The master bedroom downstairs opens directly onto the large, south-west facing deck and across the courtyard is the guest cottage with kitchen/dining and living room with two bedrooms and bathroom.

The Fahane property is well maintained and secure and according to Mr McCarthy, has “a top notch modern finish”.

It’s on offer at €350,000 and the agent is inviting more offers in that region.

Verdict: The house is ideal holiday home material and the right buyer could strike a deal. It may even suit as an extended family buy — as a time share arrangement.