With grounds extending to four acres, this single-storey, four-bed lodge, in the heart of the Golden Vale, could be a gardener's or nature lover's dream with many specimen trees, including a 30-year-old tulip tree, plus ginka, beech, eucalyptus and oak, and all bordered by a beech hedge.

Throughout the seasons, the gardens here are a delight, particularly in spring when the daffodils, narcissi and snowdrops take over the woodland. All of this idyllic rural scene frames the lodge itself which once formed part of Aherlow Castle.

The reception rooms and the principal bedrooms have either a south- or west-facing orientation and overlook the grounds, which also include a large paddock plus a paved terrace that is a sun trap for most of the day. Sun is also a big feature of the entrance hall which doubles as a relaxing sun room.

Leading off from the hall are two formal reception rooms. The dining room has a pretty bay window, while the drawing room is dominated by a period marble fireplace.

In the kitchen is a good range of fitted cupboards with tiled splashbacks and integrated appliances. Adjacent is a separate pantry with fitted shelves.

The utility room equally provides good storage space, again with fitted cupboards.

A door leads to the rear enclosed yard and garage.

Next to this is the guest cloakroom and walk-in airing cupboard.

An attractive feature of the first of the four bedrooms is that it opens on to the large sun-trap terrace. The largest bedroom has a separate dressing room and wellappointed en suite. Two remaining bedrooms have fitted wardrobes and vanity units with wash-hand basins.

The main bathroom includes a dresser with mirror, and the room is partly tiled.

Attached to the house is the 50sq m (540sq ft) double garage that has an overhead loft. This space could be converted to a self-contained apartment, say the selling agents, subject to the necessary planning permission.

Back out to the gardens again, there is a greenhouse for the avid plant enthusiast to potter about in, while those extensive grounds are just the place for a stroll towards the stream which borders the paddock.

Price: 600,000 Agent: Colliers Jackson-Stops (01-6333 700).