Mary Robinson - Ireland’s first lady President, selling her piece of paradise in Mayo

The former Irish President, Mary Robinson, and her husband Nick, have placed their 113 acre lakeside home in County Mayo on the market quoting €2.75m. The Robinsons, purchased Massbrook House in Mayo, on the shores of Lough Conn, in 1994 when Mrs Robinson was President. The property, which enjoys almost a mile of lakeshore frontage and a stunning mountainous backdrop, dates from 1890 and was designed by the eminent Victorian architect, Sir Thomas Drew.

The main house, which overlooks one of Ireland’s most stunning lakes, is complemented by exquisite gardens and grounds – a veritable walker’s paradise. The house has enjoyed a fascinating history. Shortly after winning a gold medal in the 1928 Olympics, Lord Burghley, on whom the character of Lord Andrew Lindsay in the film ‘Chariots of Fire’ was based, stayed in Massbrook House during his honeymoon. Local lore says that during his stay in Massbrook House, he managed to hurdle the main gate which, if true, was no mean feat.

Speaking about their move, Mary Robinson said “We hope that whoever buys Massbrook House will find, as we did, a haven of peace and tranquility.”

Roseanne de Vere Hunt, Head of Country Homes in Sherry FitzGerald, who along with Christie’s International Real Estate is handling the sale, said “Massbrook House is a remarkable property in a relatively undiscovered part of Europe. While we expect keen domestic interest in the property, we also anticipate strong international interest as it really is a piece of paradise.” The property, which is a 3 hour drive from Dublin, is located just 40 minutes’ drive from Irish West international airport.

Irish property, according to Ms de Vere Hunt, is attracting international interest due to the relaxed quality of life, the burgeoning economy and the fact that Irish house prices represent good value when compared with UK house prices. “Our house prices are 25% higher than in 2002 whereas UK house prices increased by 115% in the same period. Purchasers always respond to good property and good value.”

View the Massbrook House brochure online