luxury waterfront houses for sale Dublin, Ireland

Standing proudly on an elevated site overlooking Killiney Bay to Sorrento Terrace and Bray Head, Mount Mapas House holds the distinction of being the first house constructed on Victoria Road at the junction with the now iconic Vico Road. Predating both Mount Eagle (c.1838) and Victoria Castle (c.1840), it marks the beginning of architectural development in this distinguished part of Killiney. Its location and design are a true testament to the ambition and vision of its original builders. The house sits upon a remarkable man-made platform, a major engineering achievement of its time, supported by a battered granite retaining wall rising to a height of 8 metres. This imposing wall remains a defining visual feature of Vico Road today, especially at its junction with Victoria Road. Although the precise date of its construction remains unconfirmed, it is widely believed that Thomas Bourchier, a resident of nearby Killiney Castle, built Mount Mapas House shortly after acquiring the Mount Mapas estate around 1797. The house’s original footprint remains largely unchanged, preserving its historic form and character. The structure itself is a fine example of an early 19th-century villa with a graceful ironwork veranda at first floor level that lends it a distinctly colonial elegance. The level terrace on which it stands not only facilitated the house’s construction but also provided practical garden and driveway space for carriages — a rarity in such a steep, coastal setting. In 1834, the estate was acquired by Robert Warren, a notable figure in the area’s development who commenced a series of speculative residential projects starting with Mount Eagle, followed closely by Victoria Castle. These properties were often made available for seasonal rental, reflecting both the allure and exclusivity of Killiney during this period. From 1872 to 1879, Mount Mapas was home to William Colles, a prominent Dublin surgeon, and later his son, Graves Chamney Colles. In 1879, it was sold to Murrough John O’Brien, a distinguished civil servant, who made the house his family residence for over 15 years. The property was subsequently rented by notable figures including Rt. Hon. C.T. Reddington and W. Patterson, manager of the Daily Irish Independent. Such tenancies underscore the house's long-standing appeal to prominent professionals and public figures. Nestled along the prestigious Victoria Road, Mount Mapas House is positioned for privacy and accessibility. Just a short stroll from Killiney Village, the beach, and scenic hill walks, it enjoys one of Dublin’s most beautiful natural settings. Close proximity to Dalkey Heritage Town offers a vibrant mix of artisan shops, cafés, pubs, and some of South Dublin’s finest restaurants. Killiney’s Crown Jewel – A Georgian Masterpiece Overlooking the Sea - Where History Meets Horizon Step into timeless grandeur with Mount Mapas House, an extraordinary Georgian period residence of rare distinction, commanding an elevated position above Killiney Bay. One of the finest homes to come to market in 2025, this magnificent double-fronted detached property is set amidst 1.25 acres of meticulously landscaped gardens, with spectacular panoramic views stretching from Dalkey Island and Sorrento Terrace to the rugged cliffs of Bray Head. Extending to approximately 585 sq.m (6,300 sq.ft), Mount Mapas House is a rare combination of stately architectural heritage and refined contemporary luxury, nestled on what is arguably Killiney’s most prestigious road. From the moment you pass through the tall, electric wrought iron gates, a sense of exclusivity and grace is unmistakable. A sweeping gravelled driveway, framed by manicured hedging and mature planting, offers extensive off-street parking. Granite steps lead to a classic wrought iron veranda, framing the stately entrance of this double-fronted Georgian home and hinting at the elegance within.