Glebe House, Skibbereen, Co. Cork, P81CF29

Lisney Sotheby’s International Realty and Charles McCarthy’s Estate Agents are delighted to present Glebe House, Aughadown, Skibbereen, West Cork. Originally built in 1784 by Rev. Joseph Wright as the Church of Ireland Rectory for the adjacent parish church of Aughadown, this remarkable waterfront mansion house has evolved over the centuries into an exquisite country home. Approached via a sweeping waterside drive, this exceptional property is set within a secluded 9-acre (3.84-hectare) sanctuary of natural beauty. Commanding a spectacular position on a bend of the Ilen River estuary, it boasts direct private shoreline access, as well as convenient access to Baltimore Harbour and the renowned sailing waters of Roaring Water Bay and the Carbery Hundred Isles. The grounds have been beautifully landscaped in recent years, with the addition of a variety of flowering plants and shrubs, enhancing the property's natural charm. Described as 'handsome and commodious' in Samuel Lewis’ Topographical Dictionary of Ireland (1837), this meticulously maintained nine-bay period residence continues to exemplify those qualities today. Retaining the elegant proportions, grandeur, and symmetry of the Georgian era, it has been thoughtfully adapted into a comfortable five-bedroom, four-bathroom family home with ground floor guest cloakroom, spanning approximately 9,000 sq. ft. (825 sq. m.) Classical styling and contemporary design blend seamlessly, creating a functional and open living space. Superior-quality materials are evident throughout, complemented by bespoke features that enhance both character and comfort. The principal rooms are generously proportioned, with soaring ceilings, exquisite period details, and large sash windows that frame breathtaking views of the river, islands, and rolling countryside. Notably, recent energy-efficient upgrades, including the installation of PV panels, have contributed to an impressive C1 rating—remarkable for a property of this age. In addition to the main residence, two beautifully restored cottages frame the courtyard, providing an additional three bedrooms. This self-contained accommodation is ideal for guests or staff. The property also features a dedicated yoga room, gym, tennis court and walled garden enhancing its appeal as a private retreat. A separate entrance is also available at the rear. West Cork is renowned for its cosmopolitan community, attracting many acclaimed artists and writers who are drawn to its unique charm. The area offers an exceptional quality of life, with a wealth of leisure opportunities and sporting facilities, all set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. Sailing enthusiasts will find some of the finest waters along the entire south coast, while golfers are well catered for with courses in Skibbereen, Clonakilty, and Bantry. Excellent Fishing is available on the Rivers Ilen, Argideen, and Bandon. For beach lovers, pristine Blue Flag beaches can be found at Inchydoney, Rosscarbery, and Tragumna. The region is also celebrated for its vibrant food scene, with numerous fine dining establishments along the coastline, including two Michelin-starred restaurants. Glebe House, located just ten minutes from Skibbereen and approximately eighty minutes from Cork Airport, is a truly rare and private offering. Widely regarded as one of the finest properties on Ireland’s south coast, it presents an exceptional opportunity to enjoy both luxury and tranquillity in this remarkable setting. Reception Hall: Gracious introduction to the home immediately leading to opposite reception rooms. Family Room: A warm and inviting space with an oak timber floor, ideal for relaxed gatherings. Drawing Room: An elegant formal reception room with an ornate ceiling rose and cornice, a magnificent Adams style marble fireplace and extensive bespoke bookshelves. French doors open onto the walled garden, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living. Stairs Hall: A breathtaking central hallway with an oak floor and a beautifully handcrafted curved staircase leading to the upper floors. Cloakroom: A stylish and practical space with oak flooring, a WC, and wash hand basin. Sitting Room: A refined yet comfortable retreat with multiple windows flooding the room with natural light. Conservatory: A light-filled room with double sliding door system that fully retracts, seamlessly merging indoor and outdoor spaces. This expansive opening frames a breathtaking, unobstructed view of the estuary, complemented by the surrounding garden. Step out onto the sun terrace, an idyllic setting for morning coffee or evening relaxation. Kitchen: Contemporary custom designed kitchen featuring an extensive range of cabinetry, Belfast sink, Siemens integrated appliances, and a five-door AGA. A true hub of the home, it is perfectly designed for both entertaining and everyday use. Utility Room: A highly functional space with extensive storage, an integrated washing machine and dryer, a Belfast sink, and ample work surfaces. Boot Room: Tiled flooring, access to the garage, courtyard parking, and walled garden. First Floor: A grand, light-filled landing leads to: Master Bedroom: A magnificent retreat with an oak floor, a marble fireplace, a walk-in wardrobe, and two dressing rooms. En-suite Bathroom: Luxuriously appointed with a free-standing clawfoot bath, a shower cubicle that doubles as a steam room, his-and-hers wash hand basins, and a WC. Study: This elegant and tranquil space offers one of the most breathtaking aspects from the house. Bedroom 2: A spacious bedroom with an oak floor and built-in wardrobe. En-suite Bathroom: Featuring a freestanding clawfoot bath, shower cubicle, wash hand basin, WC, and heated towel rail. Second Floor: A generously proportioned gallery landing leads to: Bedroom 3: A bright and airy space with a built-in wardrobe and ensuite shower room. Bedroom 4: A delightful bedroom with a built-in wardrobe. Bathroom: Free-standing clawfoot bath, shower cubicle, wash hand basin, and WC. Bedroom 5: Another generously proportioned bedroom; offering a bird’s-eye view over the coastline, extending to Cape Clear Island in the distance, complete with a built-in wardrobe GUEST ACCOMMODATION – THE COTTAGES Main Cottage – Approx. 93 sq. m (1,000 sq. ft) A substantial two-bedroom, two-bathroom residence featuring a striking double-height living area with a feature stone chimney breast. The mezzanine study enjoys a private balcony with breathtaking coastal views. Guest Cottage (Staff Cottage) – Approx. 78 sq. m (840 sq. ft) A well-appointed one-bedroom residence with an open-plan kitchen/dining/living space. Additional Amenities Yoga Studio (6.2m x 3.7m) – A tranquil space perfect for wellness activities. Gym (8.5m x 5.5m) - A vast, impressive space with private cloakroom en-suite, accessible externally via the courtyard or internally from the guest cottage. Garage (7.2m x 7m) - Featuring an overhead recreational room (7m x 7m), with a wine cellar and boiler room located on the ground floor of the garage. Fenced Tennis Court and Gardener’s Cloakroom