‘Take the grand tour of this countryside estate in the sunny southeast – yours for €1,250,000’. The Journal. 06/06/24.

If you’ve been dreaming of a quiet life in the countryside, Ballintim Lodge in Camolin, Co Wexford could make that a reality. Nestled on eight acres of gardens and woodland, this architecturally designed gem offers a lifestyle surrounded by beauty. It also guarantees plenty of space for family and friends who are sure to want to visit.

Designed by the acclaimed architect Lindsey Johnson, Ballintim Lodge has a whopping 584 m² floor space. It’s also a cosy house, despite its size, with a B1 BER. 

The house is approached through electric gates and a 700 metre long avenue lined with mature trees and shrubs. 

As you step inside, you’re greeted by a central atrium that connects three wings. The space, adorned with bespoke art pieces, shows what’s possible when natural light is on your side.  

The entrance level features an open plan foyer with tiled flooring, recessed lighting and a solid wood front door. This space leads to the living room. Included in this area is a garden room/atrium with tiled flooring, recessed lighting, a feature fireplace with a solid fuel stove, and a door to a southwest-facing patio.

There are two kitchens in this luxurious home. One has fitted kitchen units, a tiled splashback, a beamed ceiling, a Bosch electric cooker, two dishwashers, an extractor fan and a door to the rear southwest-facing patio and gardens. This kitchen has stairs leading to a sunken dining room that has floor-to-ceiling French doors and windows overlooking the garden.

The other kitchen is filled with top-end appliances by brands such as Fisher and Paykel, Miele and an Aga. 

At the first mezzanine level, there are two sitting rooms connected by a floating bridge surrounded by glazing to make the most of the views.

This large home has six spacious bedrooms spread across the east and west wings on both levels. Two of them are principal suites with one even having its own private terrace for enjoying sunsets over Sliabh Bhuí.

The grounds surrounding the house are heaven for any keen gardener. Designed by the garden designer Ralph Wickham, they draw inspiration from the Royal Horticultural Society’s Chelsea Flower Show. A stream winds through the property, forming an island that’s connected by eleven bridges altogether. No doubt this creates a serene landscape that’s perfect for leisurely strolls.

And if the idea of growing your own fruit and vegetables appeals, the walled garden with raised beds and a potting shed is sure to delight.

There’s also a separate garage that has two electric roller doors and would be suitable for a number of cars. If you’re the equestrian type, it could also work as a stable if needed.

One of the garden’s stand-out features has to be the maze. At the centre sits a porcelain table and chairs making it the perfect spot for morning coffee or meals outdoors.

The lodge has an air of seclusion about it but this doesn’t mean it’s not conveniently located. Just 45 minutes from the M50 at Bray and under two hours from Dublin Airport, it offers easy access to many major towns and the capital. The local village of Camolin is only 3 km away and is home to a range of services including a primary school, artisan shops and popular Cois na hAbhann restaurant and garden centre.

Plans have been drawn up for a swimming pool and spa adjacent to the house, with direct access from the principal bedroom suite. This is sure to add even more luxury to the lodge should the next owner get the planning permission.

Whether you’re relaxing in the exquisite gardens, hosting gatherings in the living spaces or exploring the charming local village, Ballintim Lodge promises comfort and elegance. 

This article was written by Anna Shelswell White and can be accessed here.