luxury houses with panoramic view for sale Cork, Ireland

Set in the heart of the spectacular Cork coastline between Crosshaven and Kinsale, this remarkable semi-detached home—once a Coast Guard station dating back to the 1860s—offers a rare fusion of historic character and refined modern coastal living. Positioned on approximately half an acre of beautifully landscaped grounds, the property has been meticulously and thoughtfully renovated by its current owners, transforming it into a serene and distinctive retreat in one of Ireland’s most desirable seaside settings. Originally built to house the Coast Guard personnel who safeguarded the shoreline and deterred smuggling throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the home retains a deep sense of heritage while embracing a contemporary, open-plan design. The ground floor is centred around a bright and welcoming kitchen, where natural light pours in and flows effortlessly into a generous dining area. Large windows frame views of the west-facing front garden, creating an inviting space that is equally suited to relaxed family living and stylish entertaining. To the rear, a spacious double reception room enjoys panoramic views across the sea and the verdant garden beyond, offering a calm and ever-changing backdrop shaped by the tides and seasons. Upstairs, three beautifully appointed double bedrooms provide peaceful sanctuaries. The principal suite is particularly impressive, featuring an en suite bathroom, a dedicated dressing room, and direct access to a private balcony—an idyllic vantage point from which to take in the dramatic coastal scenery. A well-appointed family bathroom, complete with a classic roll-top bath, adds a touch of timeless elegance to the upper level. The outdoor spaces are equally captivating. The west-facing front garden has been carefully designed as a traditional ‘pottage’ or kitchen garden, enclosed by stone walls and sheltered by an Elaeagnus hedge. A charming archway draped in wisteria and climbing roses leads to a sunset patio, while vegetable beds, flowering shrubs, and espalier plum and cherry trees create both beauty and productivity. To the rear, the garden unfolds in a series of gently sloping, naturalistic layers. Tall grasses sway in the coastal breeze, while gravel pathways wind through fragrant plantings of rosemary, thyme, and sage. A robust greenhouse yields strawberries, tomatoes, and seasonal salad vegetables, while generous flower beds offer year-round interest through a thoughtful mix of herbaceous perennials, grasses, and shrubs. Mature olive trees and established hedging lend structure and privacy, while early spring rosemary blossoms give way to bulbs and cottage garden planting that attract pollinators throughout the seasons. Further along, a nature-friendly rewilding area introduces a small orchard of apple and pear trees, complemented by blueberries, rhubarb, and both summer and autumn raspberries. Bursts of lavender and poppies bring vibrant colour and attract birds and butterflies, all accompanied by the soothing, ever-present sound of the sea. Located less than 25km from Cork City, the property benefits from proximity to a selection of quiet beaches, including the sheltered sands of Robert’s Cove, known for its year-round sea swimming community and opportunities for kayaking just beyond the garden. Scenic coastal walks along the nearby headland offer breathtaking views stretching to Ballycotton Lighthouse, the Old Head of Kinsale, and Roche’s Point while Tracton Woods lies close by for further exploration. The vibrant towns of Kinsale and Carrigaline are easily accessible via picturesque country roads. This is a truly exceptional opportunity to acquire a coastal home rich in history, beautifully reimagined for modern living, and immersed in the natural beauty of Ireland’s rugged southern shoreline.

Carrigacunna is a breathtakingly restored Georgian house set alongside a beautifully preserved Norman tower house, both commanding a spectacular position overlooking the meandering River Blackwater in North Cork. This historically rich property, originally built by Henry Foott in 1826, boasts an unrivalled elevated position, offering panoramic views of the Blackwater Valley, extending toward the Ballyhoura and Galtee mountains. Carrigacunna House is built next to a 16th-century Norman tower house, which itself holds centuries of history. The tower was originally constructed by the Nagle family, a Norman lineage that established a stronghold in the area. Among the most notable figures in the family was Sir Richard Nagle, who served as private secretary to King James II. Following the Jacobite defeat at the Battle of the Boyne in 1692, Sir Richard Nagle forfeited the estate. According to legend, King James II spent a night at Carrigacunna during his retreat. In the 19th century, the Footts undertook extensive enhancements to the estate. The Georgian residence was expanded to include a three-bay extension, and the grounds were landscaped to incorporate a grand 1 km-long beech-lined avenue, rising parallel to the river and leading to the main house. Over the past two decades, Carrigacunna has undergone an exceptional transformation, blending historical elements with striking contemporary design. The property features two double-height glazed atriums, seamlessly linking the traditional architecture with modern elements. These glass-walled spaces flood the interiors with natural light, creating an atmosphere that is both inviting and dramatic. The result is a home that feels timeless, combining period elegance with modern comfort and functionality. Spanning two floors and covering approximately 700 square meters (7,500 square feet, excluding the swimming pool), the house offers an expansive yet easily manageable living space. The residence includes four main reception rooms and three luxurious bedroom suites. Additionally, the first-floor offices could easily be converted into extra bedroom accommodation if required. There is also a one bedroom annex located in the Fisherman’s cottage adjoining the main house which would be ideal for guests. A notable feature is the indoor swimming pool, which adds an element of leisure and sophistication. The estate is set in a peaceful and unspoiled region of the Blackwater Valley, an area renowned for its fertile farmland and natural beauty. The River Blackwater, considered one of Ireland’s finest salmon rivers, meanders through the landscape, with its banks dotted by historic Norman castles. Despite its secluded atmosphere, Carrigacunna enjoys excellent transport links, with quick access to national road and rail networks. Both Shannon and Cork airports are within an hour’s drive, making travel convenient for residents and visitors alike. One of the estate’s most remarkable features is its tower house castle, a superbly preserved 16th-century structure built by the Nagle family. This Norman stronghold stands as a testament to the area’s medieval history. Sir Richard Nagle of Clogher, a key figure in the Irish Parliament of 1689, was among the prominent members of the family. The castle which has been fully restored, offers a rare glimpse into Ireland’s feudal past and providing a stunning contrast to the modern elements of the estate. Carrigacunna is not only a remarkable private residence but also a historic landmark that has been thoughtfully restored to honour its past while embracing modern luxury. With its commanding views, extraordinary architecture, and extensive lands, this property represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of Ireland’s rich heritage in one of the country’s most picturesque and desirable locations.