With its castle, mountains, lakes, and river, Ballynahinch is undoubtedly one of the best-known areas of Connemara. The present day hotel was once the seat of the Martin family and the birthplace of Humanity Dick, parliamentarian and founder of the RSPCA. In later years the house was bought by Ranjit Singh, the great cricketer. This beautiful area provides superb game fishing and shooting as well as a variety of other outdoor pursuits.
Roundstone is only six miles away and Clifden is about seven miles to the west.
The severely restricted planning regulations make it extremely difficult for outsiders to acquire a home in this highly scenic area, so the alternative is to buy an existing house or ruin which can be renovated. An interesting property at Athry comprising a cottage on about two acres has now come to the market through Frank Conroy auctioneers, Oughterard. The property has frontage onto and views over Derryclare Lake, known as “Weather Forecast Lake” because of the exposure given to it by Met Éireann on RTÉ. There are wonderful panoramic views of the Twelve Pins and the Maamturks.
The cottage is in poor condition but there is full planning to renovate and extend it to provide very attractive accommodation on two levels. Included will be an entrance porch, living room (elevated ), kitchen/dining room, three bedrooms (two en suite ) and a bathroom. The property is supplied with water and electricity and sewage is by septic tank. The area is well served by many fine hotels and restaurants as well as some of the best beaches in Ireland. The superb Connemara Golf Course at Ballyconneely is a short drive away.
The property is realistically priced to reflect the current market at €215,000. For full details contact Frank Conroy auctioneers on (091 ) 552503 or (087 ) 2231935.
