
Rayconor House, Gurtymadden, Co. Galway
€495,000
222 m²~BER C2
What you'll like:
- Generous land holding: The property includes ten acres of extensive mature grounds, providing exceptional privacy and space for equestrian use or hobby farming.
- Historic architectural charm: Originally built in the 1850s, the residence retains authentic period features blended seamlessly with thoughtful modern extensions and updates.
- Impressive private arrival: The estate is accessed through striking gates and a picturesque tree-lined avenue, enhancing the secluded and exclusive countryside atmosphere.
- Celebrity provenance history: The residence boasts a unique background as a secluded guest house for numerous notable figures over the past decade.
- Substantial floor area: Offering 222 square meters of living space, the home provides ample room for family living and entertaining guests comfortably.
- Equestrian facilities included: The grounds feature six box stables, a yard, a tack room, and a small sand arena, ready for horse enthusiasts.
- Agricultural storage capacity: A four-bay hayshed and outdoor storage shed provide versatile utility space for equipment, feed, or general estate management.
- Covered parking provision: A double stone carport ensures protected parking for vehicles while complementing the traditional aesthetic of the surrounding stone outbuildings.
- Multiple reception rooms: The layout includes a sitting entertainment room, an open plan kitchen living room, and a snug office for flexible daily living.
- Charming second kitchen: An additional kitchen area features its own solid fuel fireplace and direct patio access, creating a wonderful secondary entertaining space.
- Guest accommodation separation: A separate staircase leads to an overhead bedroom den with an ensuite, offering wonderful privacy for visiting guests or staff.
- Dual aspect lighting: Many rooms benefit from dual aspect windows, flooding the interior spaces with natural light throughout the daytime hours.
- Cozy solid fuel fireplaces: Multiple feature fireplaces throughout the residence provide authentic warmth and character points in main living areas and bedrooms.
- Roll top bath luxury: Bathrooms feature elegant roll-top baths alongside modern shower installations, combining traditional styling with contemporary bathroom convenience.
- Master suite retreat: The primary bedroom includes dual aspect windows, a private solid fuel fireplace, and a full ensuite bathroom suite.
- Dedicated dressing room: An additional room is currently fitted out as a comprehensive dressing room, adding high-end wardrobe storage for residents.
- Exposed stone features: Distinctive interior stone walls highlight the historic construction methods and add unique rustic texture to the rooms.
- Functional boot room: An impressive entrance hall and boot room with double doors provides a practical transition space for country living gear.
- Outdoor patio integration: Glass double doors connect indoor living spaces directly to exterior patio areas, encouraging seamless alfresco dining and relaxation.
- Manageable energy rating: The home achieves a C2 BER rating, indicating better energy efficiency than many older historic properties of this vintage.
But keep in mind:
- Private septic tank: The property relies on a private septic tank, requiring the buyer to verify its registration, capacity, and current operating condition.
- Private well water: Water is supplied via a private well, so the buyer should commission comprehensive quality and flow rate testing prior to purchase.
- Oil central heating dependency: Heating is powered by oil, which can involve fluctuating fuel costs and requires diligent monitoring of tank levels.
- Historic building maintenance: Dating back to the 1850s, the structure may require ongoing specialized maintenance and higher upkeep costs than a modern build.
- Rural isolation risks: Situated in the countryside of Gurtymadden, the location may mean longer travel times for daily commuting, schools, and essential amenities.
- Septic compliance inspection: The buyer must ensure the wastewater treatment system meets current environmental regulations to avoid costly upgrades.
- Well pump reliability: Dependence on a private water source means the buyer should check the age and reliability of the well pump and filtration systems.
- Outbuilding upkeep needs: The six box stables, hayshed, and yard structures will require regular inspection for roof integrity, timber rot, and general weathering.
- Sand arena maintenance: The small sand arena will need periodic grading, weed control, and surface replenishment to remain functional for equestrian activities.
- Energy efficiency limitations: Despite a C2 rating, older stone walls can present thermal bridging challenges that the buyer should inspect via a detailed survey.
- Chimney safety checks: Multiple solid fuel fireplaces mean the buyer should arrange professional flue and chimney inspections before lighting fires.
- Extensive grounds upkeep: Managing ten acres and mature gardens demands significant time and financial investment for landscaping, fencing, and boundary maintenance.
- Remote boundary fencing: The extensive perimeter should be walked and inspected to confirm that all fencing and hedging defining the ten acres are secure.
- Surface water drainage: Given the rural setting and expansive grounds, the buyer should verify that surface water drains effectively away from the main residence.
- Isolated utility lines: Overhead electricity or telecommunication lines running down the long avenue could be vulnerable to storm damage and service interruptions.
- Secondary staircase privacy: The separate staircase to the guest den creates an isolated wing, which the buyer should check for fire safety and compliance.
- Timber floor maintenance: Extensive wooden flooring throughout the property may show wear in high-traffic zones and require periodic sanding or refinishing.
- Stylist renovation history: The extensive remodeling done by a stylist should be checked by a surveyor to ensure all structural changes adhered to building regulations.
- Access road maintenance: The long tree-lined avenue is private, meaning the buyer assumes full responsibility for its upkeep, resurfacing, and overhanging tree management.
- Limited local public transport: The rural location lacks immediate access to public transit networks, making multi-car ownership virtually essential for household occupants.
Price positioning
?
- The asking price appears attractively valued given that the estate includes a substantial historic 1850s residence spanning 222 square metres alongside ten acres of land.
- Valuation signals are strengthened by extensive equestrian facilities including six box stables, a tack room, and a sand arena which normally command a strong market premium.
- Potential factors that could support this price include the property's unique celebrity history and sensitive modern renovations, while rural location remoteness might slightly undermine liquidity.
- Additional relevant factors involve the inclusion of a four bay hayshed and mature private grounds accessed via a gated tree-lined avenue, enhancing the overall lifestyle offering.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- Originally built in the 1850s and later extended and remodelled, combining old-world character with modern conveniences.
- Features extensive private grounds including stables, a hayshed, sand arena, and outbuildings which a buyer should inspect for structural integrity.
- Services include a private septic tank and private well, requiring verification of compliance, capacity, and water quality.
- The property holds a C2 BER rating, reflecting previous updates to the historic structure.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost is approximately 2500 to 3500 euro.
- This estimate is based on the 222 square metre floor area and a C2 BER rating, utilizing oil central heating combined with multiple solid fuel fireplaces.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
- The property is located in a tranquil rural setting in County Galway, well away from major industrial plants, heavy manufacturing zones, or waste incinerators.
- No notable legacy industrial pollution or active landfill sites are apparent in the immediate vicinity of Gurtymadden, though standard rural septic tank maintenance should be verified.
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- The property sits within an established countryside area with no immediate history of widespread catastrophic flooding reported for the specific plot.
- As with many rural properties relying on private wells and land in the Irish midlands, local surface water drainage after heavy rainfall should be inspected by a professional to ensure complete peace of mind.
Recent Local Sales
Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years
Sales on the same street or estate
No verified results were found for this group in the previous five years.
Recent sales in the wider Gurtymadden area
LISCOYLE, GURTYMADDEN, COUNTY GALWAY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €38,000.00
FOXHALL, GURTYMADDEN, GALWAY
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €160,000.00
Source: Property Services Regulatory Authority (PSRA), Residential Property Price Register (PPR). Matching uses address information published by the PPR rather than measured map distance. It may omit nearby properties on differently named streets.
Last Sale
A confidently matched previous PPR transaction for this property
No confidently matched previous sale was found in the Property Price Register.
Buyer fees*
Associated expenses guide
- Solicitor legal fees: approximately 1500 to 3000 euro plus outlay and VAT
- Land registration fees: approximately 400 to 800 euro depending on property value and registration type
- Property valuation fees: approximately 150 to 300 euro
- Surveyor fees: approximately 500 to 1200 euro for a comprehensive structural survey of a 222 square metre property
- Annual home insurance: approximately 600 to 1200 euro depending on coverage for a rural property of this size
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Locals in the Gurtymadden and Loughrea region frequently highlight the peaceful, rural atmosphere and the strong sense of community privacy.
- Residents often discuss the convenience of rural living while remaining within accessible driving distance of larger hubs like Galway and Athlone.
- Community forums occasionally share updates regarding local agricultural activities, equestrian events, and maintenance of rural roads.
- There is general appreciation for historic properties in the countryside, with locals often exchanging tips on maintaining older, characterful homes.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children7/10
The property offers extensive outdoor space with 10 acres of land and mature gardens for children to play, though parents should investigate the safety of nearby rural roads and water features.
- Teenagers6/10
There is plenty of space for teenagers to spread out, including independent zones like the overhead bedroom/den with an ensuite, but the rural location offers limited local youth amenities.
- Multi-generational Living7/10
The generous floor area of 222 square metres and quirky layout with multiple reception rooms and separate access points provide good opportunities for extended family living.
- Single Buyers3/10
A large estate with 10 acres and extensive outbuildings requires substantial upkeep and maintenance, making it less suitable for a single occupant unless they are seeking a major lifestyle project.
- Couples8/10
Provides a wonderfully private, character-filled countryside retreat with ample room for entertaining and relaxing together in a historic setting.
- Empty Nesters6/10
While it offers a peaceful rural lifestyle and single-level flexibility, the expansive grounds and upkeep of stables and outbuildings may prove burdensome over time.
- Retirees5/10
The private estate setting is ideal for a quiet retirement, but buyers should consider the distance to essential medical services and the physical demands of maintaining a 10-acre property.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working8/10
Includes a dedicated snug/office with a feature stone wall, offering a charming workspace, though buyers should verify local broadband speeds for remote connectivity.
- Hybrid Commuting4/10
The rural location in Gurtymadden involves a significant commute to major employment hubs, making hybrid working challenging depending on office locations.
- Retired8/10
A peaceful and private country estate providing a wonderful retreat for retirement, provided the maintenance requirements are manageable.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place5/10
While the property has ground-floor accommodation, buyers should verify bathroom accessibility and the practicality of managing a large multi-level historic estate in later years.
- Low Maintenance2/10
A 10-acre estate with stables, yards, historic structures built in the 1850s, a private septic tank, and a private well requires ongoing maintenance and management.
- Secure Gated Entry10/10
The property is supremely private and accessed through impressive gates and a tree-lined avenue.
- Minimalist Design2/10
The home oozes old-world character, traditional fireplaces, stone walls, and quirky historic features rather than sleek minimalist design.
- Flexible Floor Plans8/10
With 222 square metres of space, multiple living areas, a dressing room, and a separate staircase leading to a bedroom/den with ensuite, the layout offers good flexibility.
- Heritage Home10/10
Originally built in the 1850s and sensitively renovated to retain its old-world charm while incorporating modern conveniences.
- Ecological Setup6/10
Features a private well and private septic tank on 10 acres, though buyers should verify the energy efficiency and overall ecological performance beyond its C2 BER rating.
- Outdoor areas10/10
Comprises 10 acres of grounds, extensive mature gardens, a patio, a double stone carport, stables, a yard, and a small sand arena.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening10/10
Extensive mature gardens across a 10-acre estate provide exceptional scope for enthusiastic gardeners.
- Walking9/10
The surrounding countryside and the property's own extensive grounds offer fantastic opportunities for scenic walks right from the doorstep.
- Gym2/10
There are no commercial gym facilities nearby, meaning residents would need to set up a home gym in one of the property's versatile rooms or travel significant distances.
- Cycling7/10
Quiet local country roads provide pleasant cycling routes, though cyclists should be mindful of rural traffic conditions.
- Golf4/10
While located in County Galway, dedicated golfers should investigate the proximity and travel times to the nearest golf courses.
- Fishing6/10
The rural countryside location in Loughrea offers potential access to regional angling spots, though buyers should verify local fishing rights and water bodies.
- Horse Riding10/10
An exceptional setup for equestrian enthusiasts featuring six box stables and yard, tack room, outdoor storage, a four-bay hayshed, and a small sand arena.
- Water Sports3/10
Inland rural setting means water sports facilities are limited, though local lakes in the wider region may offer opportunities to investigate.
- Entertaining9/10
Featuring a sitting/entertainment room, open-plan kitchen/living areas, a patio, and a historic character that has previously hosted celebrities, it is brilliantly suited for hosting guests.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living10/10
Rayconor House is supremely private, accessed through impressive gates and a tree-lined avenue in a stunning countryside location.
- Rural Living10/10
Set on 10 acres in Gurtymadden, Co. Galway, complete with stables, a hayshed, and mature gardens, perfectly matching a traditional rural lifestyle.
- Village Living5/10
The property is located in a rural countryside setting rather than a bustling village community, requiring driving for local conveniences.
- Coastal Living1/10
The property is situated inland in County Galway, far away from any coastal areas.
- Urban Living1/10
Located entirely in the countryside, far removed from urban centers and city conveniences.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement5/10
Rural setting means community engagement relies on local community groups and nearby towns rather than an immediate neighborhood hub.
- Café Culture2/10
Café culture is minimal in the immediate rural surroundings, requiring travel to nearby towns for coffee shops.
- Nightlife1/10
The property is situated in a secluded rural area with no local nightlife venues.
- Health/Wellness groups3/10
Local wellness classes or pilates & stretching groups would require traveling to nearby population centers.
- Networking Opportunities2/10
Professional networking opportunities in the immediate rural locality are virtually non-existent.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity2/10
Far removed from urban tech hubs, meaning reliance is entirely on home internet connections.
Listing information
- Agent
- Sherry FitzGerald Madden
- Phone
- +353 (0)90 9741333 / +353 (0)91 870449
- Published on HouseDelve
- 5 October 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-F7C483HouseDelve · Republic of IrelandReport checks
Sources used: Public marketplace, Property Price Register, and grounded web research where available.
Automated quality checks: Passed
* Estimate — not advice. Actual costs and outcomes can vary materially. Obtain current quotations and professional advice before making financial or property decisions.