Unique Hideaway on c. 2 Acres, Scalp, Hollywood, WicklowW91W3P0
€325,000
2 Bed~1 Bath~120 m²~BER D
What you'll like:
- Generous private acreage: The property sits on approximately two acres of rustic woodland, providing exceptional seclusion, mature trees, and a peaceful natural environment for future owners to enjoy.
- Competitive asking price: Priced at €325,000 for a detached footprint of 120 square metres, offering an affordable entry point for buyers willing to undertake renovation works.
- Distinctive architectural character: Built in 1981 with a split-level layout and large floor-to-ceiling windows, the design successfully integrates the interior living spaces with the surrounding woodland views.
- Scenic mountain foothills location: Situated near Hollywood village in the Wicklow mountains, residents benefit from a quiet rural lifestyle while remaining close to famous amenities like Glendalough.
- Convenient N81 access: Located just a four-minute drive from the main N81 route, ensuring straightforward commuting and travel connections toward Blessington, Naas, and Dublin city.
- Substantial outdoor storage: Includes a dedicated concrete storage shed positioned discreetly to the rear of the site, offering practical space for tools, equipment, and general household items.
- Local village amenities: Hollywood village is approximately three kilometres away, featuring a well-regarded primary school, community centre, local shop, and traditional public houses.
- Abundant recreational pursuits: Positioned right on the doorstep of the Wicklow Gap, providing endless opportunities for hill walking, golfing, water sports on Blessington Lakes, and equestrian events.
- Flexible modernization project: The extensive repair requirements allow a new owner to completely customize the interior finishes and layout to their own personal tastes and modern standards.
- Established regional towns: Nearby towns such as Blessington and Baltinglass offer a comprehensive selection of supermarkets, restaurants, and daily services within a short drive.
- Larger shopping centers nearby: Major retail hubs in Naas and the wider Dublin region are easily accessible for more extensive shopping, entertainment, and professional services.
- Natural light integration: Large glass elements throughout the main living areas maximize daylight penetration and create a dynamic, airy atmosphere despite the woodland canopy.
- Gateway location advantages: Acts as a natural gateway to the Garden of Ireland, making it an attractive base for weekend retreats or permanent countryside living.
- Stable asking price history: The recorded asking price has remained completely stable at €325,000 with no downward adjustments, indicating firm initial pricing from the vendor.
- Detached dwelling privacy: Unlike suburban semi-detached homes, this detached structure ensures no shared walls and enhances overall acoustic privacy within the woodland setting.
- Potential for value addition: Completing a comprehensive refurbishment program could significantly increase the asset value compared to the initial purchase price and renovation outlay.
- Established utility connections: The property already benefits from existing ESB electricity and an oil-fired central heating system, forming a baseline for future upgrades.
- Rural sanctuary appeal: Perfect for buyers seeking to escape urban congestion in favour of a quieter pace of life surrounded by native flora and fauna.
- Compact footprint efficiency: The 120 square metre floor area provides a manageable scale for heating, maintenance, and interior redesign without excessive spatial waste.
- Private boundary definition: The two-acre plot size offers clear demarcated grounds for potential landscaping, gardening projects, or the creation of secure outdoor pet areas.
But keep in mind:
- Extensive repair requirements: The official listing notes that the property is in need of repair throughout, meaning buyers should budget heavily for a comprehensive modernization program.
- Substantial BER rating: The dwelling carries a D energy rating, which indicates poor thermal efficiency and necessitates significant insulation and heating upgrades to reduce running costs.
- Private well water dependency: Water is supplied by a private well rather than a municipal mains network, requiring buyers to independently test water quality and maintain pump equipment.
- On-site septic tank system: Sewage management relies on a septic tank, meaning purchasers must commission a professional inspection to verify compliance with current environmental regulations.
- Aging 1981 construction: Constructed in 1981, original building components such as wiring, plumbing, and roof elements may have reached the end of their functional lifespan and need replacement.
- Split-level layout challenges: While aesthetically interesting, the split-level design could present accessibility hurdles for individuals with limited mobility or families with very young children.
- Potential damp risks: The heavy woodland setting and mature trees surrounding the house may increase moisture levels, prompting buyers to check for damp ingress and inadequate sub-floor ventilation.
- High renovation capital outlay: Combining the purchase price with the cost of extensive modernization could push the total project expenditure well beyond initial expectations.
- Roof and window inspection needed: Large floor-to-ceiling windows from 1981 require careful professional examination to check for seal failures, thermal bridging, and structural integrity.
- Oil-fired heating reliance: The reliance on oil-fired central heating exposes the homeowner to fluctuating fossil fuel prices, making a transition to heat pumps a costly future consideration.
- Remote winter accessibility: Rural mountain roads in the Wicklow foothills can occasionally become difficult to navigate during severe winter weather events or heavy frost.
- Lack of immediate public transport: The rural sanctuary setting lacks frequent public transport links, making private vehicle ownership essential for all daily errands and commuting.
- Boundary and title verification: Buyers must instruct their legal representatives to carefully verify the exact two-acre site boundaries against the official land registry maps.
- Septic tank registration status: Purchasers should confirm whether the existing septic tank is properly registered with the local authority and meets current environmental discharge standards.
- Tree root interference risks: Mature trees situated close to the dwelling footprint should be inspected by an arborist to ensure roots are not impacting foundations or underground services.
- Limited expansion oversight: Planning restrictions in rural Wicklow areas can make securing permission for future extensions or major structural alterations challenging.
- Insulation standards deficit: Homes built in the early 1980s typically feature minimal cavity and roof insulation, contributing directly to the current D energy performance rating.
- Uncertain well yield: Buyers should verify the continuous flow rate and potability of the private well, especially during extended dry summer periods in the rural area.
- Potential insurance surcharges: Properties requiring extensive repair or situated in remote rural locations can sometimes attract higher buildings insurance premiums or specific policy conditions.
- Restricted resale liquidity: Highly specialized woodland hideaways may appeal to a narrower demographic of buyers compared to standard suburban family homes when eventually reselling.
Price positioning
?
- The asking price appears somewhat undervalued given the generous two-acre woodland setting and substantial 120 square metre floor area, although the dwelling requires significant modernization throughout to reach its full potential livability standards.
- Valuation signals indicate that while the property offers substantial space and privacy in the Wicklow foothills, the poor D energy rating and extensive repair requirements impose heavy capital expenditure burdens on prospective buyers.
- Potential buyers might be deterred by the hidden costs of upgrading a 1980s split-level structure with private well and septic tank services, while strong demand for rural retreats could support competitive interest if properly managed.
- Relevant factors include the static pricing history observed since listing, suggesting steady seller resolve despite necessary renovations, alongside broader rural market trends showing higher transaction figures for properties in the wider locality.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a split-level detached home built in 1981, extending to approximately 120 square metres, featuring large floor-to-ceiling windows.
- The listing notes the property is in need of repair throughout and requires modernisation and upgrading, suggesting a buyer should budget for extensive refurbishment works.
- Given the 1981 construction date, a buyer should investigate the condition of the roof, insulation levels, plumbing, and electrical systems, and check for potential damp or timber rot associated with the heavily wooded woodland setting.
- Services include a private well and a septic tank, meaning a buyer should verify the compliance, capacity, and current operational condition of both wastewater treatment and water supply systems.
- The substantial concrete storage shed on the grounds should be inspected for structural integrity and any planning compliance history.
Retrofit Cost*
Possible renovating / insulating expenditure
- The property has a BER rating of D, indicating that the energy performance is poor and a deep retrofit is required to bring it to a modern standard.
- A comprehensive deep retrofit for a 120 square metre home of this age—including external wall insulation, window and door upgrades, roof insulation, heating system replacement with a heat pump or modern boiler, and airtightness measures—would likely cost between EUR 45,000 and EUR 70,000, depending on the extent of structural repairs needed alongside energy improvements.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost: approximately 1,800 to 2,500 euro.
- Explanation: Given the 120 square metre floor area, a BER rating of D, and oil-fired central heating, energy consumption is likely to be higher than average, particularly due to the age of the property and the need for modernization and potential insulation upgrades.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
- The property is located in a secluded, mountainous rural setting in West Wicklow, appearing well removed from major heavy industrial zones, modern incinerators, or large-scale commercial waste facilities.
- Any prospective buyer should independently verify local environmental conditions, such as private well water quality and the maintenance history of the on-site septic tank, to ensure complete peace of mind.
Flood Safe
9/10Water overflow reports to follow up
- The property is set in the elevated foothills of the Wicklow mountains, well away from major river floodplains.
- While the split-level layout features ground-floor living areas, the hillside setting and lack of nearby watercourses significantly reduce direct flood risks to the home and access routes.
- Standard surface water pooling during heavy rainfall is possible in rural woodland settings, but no specific fluvial hazards are indicated.
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 Hollywood area
SLIEVECORRAGH, HOLLYWOOD, WICKLOW
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €712,000.00
CALDERSTONES, JOHNSTOWN, HOLLYWOOD
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €665,000.00
RATHATTIN COTTAGE, FUNNY HALL, HOLLYWOOD
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €657,500.00
3 MARYS RD, BRITONSTOWN, HOLLYWOOD
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €545,000.00
SLIEVECORRAGH, HOLLYWOOD, CO WICKLOW
- Sale date
- Declared sale price
- €500,000.00
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
- Estimated stamp duty: €3,250 — 1% of €325,000.
?
Based on the asking price shown on this page, using standard residential stamp-duty rates. No adjustments are made for VAT, reliefs, mixed-use property or additional land. The final purchase price and your circumstances may change the amount payable.
- Solicitor legal fees: approximately 1,500 to 3,000 euro plus VAT and outlays.
- Land registration fees: approximately 400 to 800 euro depending on the registration type and property value.
- Property valuation fees: approximately 150 to 300 euro.
- Surveyor fees: approximately 500 to 1,200 euro depending on the depth of the survey required for a property needing repair.
- Annual home insurance: approximately 400 to 800 euro depending on the level of coverage and rural location.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Locals in the Hollywood and wider Wicklow area frequently discuss the balance between rural seclusion and convenient access to Dublin via the nearby N81.
- Community forums often highlight the charm of Hollywood village, noting its strong local amenities including the primary school, community centre, and well-known pubs.
- Residents in rural woodland settings like Scalp often share advice on maintaining private wells and septic tank systems, which are standard for properties in the foothills of the Wicklow mountains.
- Outdoor enthusiasts in local community groups frequently reference the proximity to the Wicklow Gap, Glendalough, and Blessington Lakes for hill walking and leisure pursuits.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children6/10
The expansive 2-acre woodland setting offers a wonderful natural playground for young children to explore, though the property's need for extensive repair and modernisation means safety precautions will be necessary initially.
- Teenagers5/10
The split-level layout and secluded woodland environment provide plenty of individual space and character, but the rural location requires parents to drive teenagers to social and educational activities.
- Multi-generational Living3/10
With 120 square metres across two bedrooms and one bathroom, the current footprint is somewhat compact for multi-generational living, though the generous two-acre site may offer potential for future extension subject to planning.
- Single Buyers4/10
A single buyer looking for a renovation project will find an exciting challenge here, though the isolated rural setting might feel too remote for those who prefer vibrant city living.
- Couples7/10
This unique hideaway is ideal for couples seeking a peaceful, tranquil retreat where they can collaborate on modernising a distinctive 1980s architectural design.
- Empty Nesters6/10
The property offers a serene, private lifestyle in the foothills of the Wicklow mountains, though the requirement for ongoing property maintenance and renovations should be considered.
- Retirees5/10
While the quiet rural sanctuary and single-level aspects in parts suit a relaxed retirement, the split-level interior layout and the need for significant repairs might present practical challenges for ageing in place.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working7/10
The tranquil woodland environment provides an inspiring backdrop for remote work, though buyers should verify the local broadband speeds and connectivity options available.
- Hybrid Commuting4/10
Being approximately 45 kilometres from Dublin and a few minutes off the N81 makes hybrid commuting feasible, but travel times can fluctuate significantly during peak hours.
- Retired8/10
The peaceful surroundings and proximity to village life suit a retired lifestyle well, provided the buyers are comfortable managing a property that requires some ongoing maintenance and renovation.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place4/10
The split-level layout and the need for significant repair throughout mean the home would require thoughtful adaptation to comfortably accommodate ageing in place.
- Low Maintenance2/10
Explicitly noted as being in need of repair throughout and requiring modernisation and upgrading, alongside over two acres of rustic grounds, this property demands active ongoing maintenance.
- Secure Gated Entry3/10
While the secluded woodland setting provides natural privacy, formal secure gated entry infrastructure is not highlighted in the listing details and would likely need to be installed.
- Minimalist Design6/10
Built in 1981 with split-level spaces and large floor-to-ceiling windows, the architectural bones lean toward a mid-century or retro minimalist aesthetic that could be enhanced during renovation.
- Flexible Floor Plans7/10
The split-level design creates an interesting sense of space and individuality, offering a creative layout that a new owner can adapt during modernisation.
- Heritage Home4/10
Constructed in 1981, it represents a distinctive architectural period of the late 20th century rather than a traditional historic heritage home.
- Ecological Setup7/10
The home relies on a private well and septic tank, and sits within a natural woodland environment, though its D energy rating indicates room for significant eco-friendly upgrades.
- Outdoor areas9/10
Featuring grounds extending to just over two acres of rustic woodland with mature trees, alongside a substantial concrete storage shed, the outdoor space is exceptionally private and expansive.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening9/10
The grounds extend to just over two acres featuring mature trees and a rustic natural layout, offering fantastic potential for keen gardeners to cultivate specialized woodland or cottage gardens.
- Walking9/10
Situated right on the edge of the Wicklow mountains near Glendalough and the Wicklow Gap, hillwalking and nature trails are literally on your doorstep.
- Gym3/10
Dedicated fitness facilities are not immediately on hand in this rural location, requiring travel to nearby larger towns for gym access.
- Cycling8/10
The scenic local roads and proximity to mountain passes offer wonderful cycling routes, though riders must be comfortable sharing rural roads with vehicular traffic.
- Golf8/10
There are numerous golf clubs located in the vicinity, making it a very convenient spot for golf enthusiasts.
- Fishing7/10
Water pursuits and fishing opportunities can be enjoyed close by on the nearby Blessington Lakes.
- Horse Riding8/10
The rural Wicklow setting and proximity to racing hubs like Punchestown, Naas, and the Curragh make this an appealing location for equestrian interests.
- Water Sports7/10
Blessington Lakes is a short drive away, providing a local venue for various water-based activities and water sports.
- Entertaining6/10
The large floor-to-ceiling windows and unique split-level layout offer a wonderful ambiance for hosting guests once modernised, though the remote location means guests will need to travel.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living10/10
Set amidst a secluded and tranquil woodland setting in the Wicklow mountains, this property delivers the ultimate quiet living experience away from urban hustle.
- Rural Living10/10
Positioned on over two acres of rustic grounds in a rural sanctuary close to Hollywood village, this is a quintessential country living opportunity.
- Village Living8/10
The property is located just a short distance from the charming village of Hollywood, providing easy access to local amenities like a primary school, community centre, and traditional pubs.
- Coastal Living1/10
The location is landlocked in the foothills of the Wicklow mountains and is entirely removed from any coastal amenities.
- Urban Living2/10
Urban conveniences require a drive to nearby towns such as Blessington or Naas, with Dublin approximately 45 kilometres away.
Social
6 areas- Nightlife2/10
Nightlife is limited to traditional local public houses, with vibrant nightlife options requiring travel into Naas or Dublin.
- Community Involvement7/10
Hollywood village features an active community centre and local amenities that foster a welcoming, close-knit community spirit.
- Café Culture4/10
While local pubs and shops exist in Hollywood village, a more extensive café culture is found further afield in larger nearby towns.
- Health/Wellness groups5/10
Community-led wellness activities may be found through the local community centre, but specialised wellness groups will typically require travel to larger neighbouring settlements.
- Networking Opportunities2/10
The rural, secluded nature of the property offers very few local professional networking opportunities.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity3/10
Proximity to major tech hubs is low given the rural Wicklow mountain location, making reliable high-speed internet essential to investigate.
Listing information
- Agent
- J P & M Doyle Ltd
- Phone
- 045 865 568
- Current status
- active
- Published on HouseDelve
- 2 November 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-E97B74HouseDelve · 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.