It's a family home that will satisfy those buyers with a longing for period charm . . .and a sea bathe. The avenue has a very prominent coastal position within a short walk of the famous Forty Foot bathing place, and there are strong associations not just with the sea, but also the literary world.

Sandycove takes its name from the small sandy cove near the rocky outcrop on which the historic Martello Tower was built and which has particular literary Joycean connections. The village nestles conveniently between Dalkey and Dun Laoghaire, with a good choice of shops at adjacent Glasthule. Number 29 is all old-world character, with its double-fronted elevation mirrored on the inside with many original features including elegant cornicing, centre roses and sash windows with working wooden shutters.

The house was renovated and refurbished in l995 with attention also given to the westerly rear garden which spans 60sq m.

Award winning gardener Sheena Vernon was enlisted to transform this outdoor space, and her re-design includes a water feature and an inviting sitting area.

The 270sq ft garage could convert to a bright studio (subject to planning permission). Rear parking is accessed off Rock's Yard Lane.

Two reception rooms and two bedrooms lead off either side of the central reception hall. At the rear hall is the bathroom, and then the fitted kitchen with sliding, glazed doors to the sun room. This bright room opens directly to the sheltered rear garden, and also to the side of the property. A spiral staircase leads up from the hall to the main bedroom which has a tiled en-suite with both bath and shower.

The lowdown

Address: No 29 Sandycove Avenue West, Co Dublin
Details: Renovated Victorian villa spanning 149sq m (1600sq ft) comprising an entrance hall, sitting room, family room, kitchen/breakfast room, sun room, three bedrooms (one en-suite) and main bathroom. There are gardens front and rear and garage.
Highlights: Original period features. Landscaped garden by garden designer Sheena Vernon.
Price: 1.5m
Agent: Knight Frank Ganly Walters 01-662 3255