Situated in the heart of French Farm Bay, Bantry Lodge sits gracefully overlooking the Bay and surrounding countryside.
Built around 1880 by Viscount Bearhaven, the last Earl of Bantry, the original house design replicates the family’s hunting lodge in Ireland and an architectural two-storey extension was added in 1994. With balcony upstairs and verandah on the ground floor, the garden and bay beyond are a constant lure.
The drive wends its way through beautiful landscaping and countless planting has been added to the original sequoias, yews, copper beech and camellias. There are many aspects to the garden; from semi-formal to nooks and crannies where one may sit in quiet contemplation or gaze out over the Bay. With an Easterly aspect, the property is very sheltered and bathes in all day sun.
Set well away from the main property is a cottage of similar design to the house which was transferred from Christchurch in 1994 and is now used as self-catering accommodation. It comprises of one bedroom, bathroom, combined kitchen and living.
The original stables include two rooms plus storage offering an opportunity to create more accommodation if desired. The old cool store also remains intact.
Since 2002 Bantry Lodge has been used as B&B accommodation. Potential exists to combine the B&B business with the garden as a wedding venue.
The main dwelling of +- 230.4m2 provides room for everyone with generous bedrooms and bathrooms. Delight in entertaining with a designer kitchen that incorporates a sunny informal dining area. The formal dining room leads onto the verandah for pre or post-dinner drinks but has a closed wood burner for winter warmth. A large formal sitting room includes a huge open fire and is surrounded by large windows, all opening onto the verandah and optimising the view.
With too many features to list, this truly unique property (and the opportunity if offers) must be viewed to be appreciated.
OPEN HOMES: Sunday 1:30 – 2:30pm
**Price will be + GST (if any)
Please be aware that this information may have been sourced from RPNZ/ Property Guru/ Land Information New Zealand/ Christchurch City Council/ CERA and we have not been able to verify the accuracy of the same.