There are certainly as many fish . . . Ireland's largest lake is renowned for its stock of salmon and trout . . . and it's all of these things and more that attracted the owners of Castletown, a large, detached home overlooking Ballynalty Bay, Cross, Co Mayo. The New York based family includes a keen fisherman, and the interior design of the house bears a hint of the style of coastal New Hampshire residences.

"There's very much a feel of the Hamptons to this lovely home, with the dark floorboards, wainscotting and high ceilings, all of which are bathed in natural light from huge windows, " says joint selling agent Helen Cassidy.

Which is not to say that this recently built, modern house is fully set on one style . . . there is also a very contemporary and uncluttered look to the house that may not be immediately apparent from the exterior. The generous space throughout is a feature in itself, and nothing is allowed to impede on the lake views from most windows and which, in turn, inspire the tranquil mood.

Entrance is through the front porch and directly in to the reception hallway with cool, slate tiled floors, wooden panelling on the walls, and a built-in bench seat to welcome guests. The large kitchen-cum-dining room has similar slate tiled flooring complementing fresh white units with sleek chrome handles and a timber panelled ceiling. A large 'Stoves' cooker keeps the chef happy, while other appliances are neatly integrated. There is also a large larder unit for good storage. This is a pleasant, modern room in which to work and dine as it has lake views and direct access to a sheltered, covered outdoor terrace.

A natural draw in the livingroom on cooler days is the open fireplace with stone hearth, but come summer, the two sets of glazed double doors open onto the terrace and look out towards the lake.

The ceiling here is high and vaulted, adding to the airy feeling of space.

Large picture windows overlooking the water are a dominant feature in the main bedroom which has dark stained floorboards, plus an en-suitewith twin basins, bath and separate shower. A second bedroom is also en-suite, while bedroom three will delight for smaller family members with a stable-style door and built-in storage for toys.

The main bathroom is tiled in cream mosaic, a neutral backdrop to the modern white suite; there is also a separate guest cloakroom. Adjacent to this is the laundry room with a side door to an outdoor utility area. The first floor of the house is dedicated as a guest suite with a very large bedroom, with wonderful lake views, separate bathroom with mosaic tiles and walk-in dressing room.

An undoubted feature of this property are the grounds of five acres and which run down to the lakeshore. The approach to the house is along a shingle drive bordered by wooden fencing and young trees. Access to the pier is along a separate stone drive.

"It's very rare these days to find a home that has five acres right next to the lake, " says Helen Cassidy, adding that the area is unique also because of the inland lighthouse close to Ballynalty Bay and within proximity to one of the very few inhabited islands on Lough Corrib. "There is great fishing locally, and of course you can swim there too."

As for the interior of the house, it's styled in such a way that all the next owner has to do is move in and put their own stamp on it. You should always leave a little scope for the imagination and with the calm surroundings of the lake, there will surely be plenty of inspiration here.

Price: 800,000 Joint agents: Helen Cassidy, 09495-46868; Frank Conroy, 091-552503