Got your sights set on the Cork coast?

With some of the most spectacular scenery in Ireland and a wealth of hidden coves, cute villages and rolling countryside to explore, the lure of West Cork is strong.

Less than two hours from town, a move out west will not only supply you with unlimited salty air and sea access, it could also offer up a better choice of bigger properties for much less than similar homes sell for in the city. If you work from home it’s a win/win, but even if you can get by with a once or twice-weekly commute, West Cork life could still be the savvy choice for house hunters.

Here are three homes on the market right now that boast jaw-dropping views and plenty for space for guests or growing families.

1. The Break, Colla Road, Schull

Asking price: €265,000

Tucked away down a quiet cul-de-sac, this two-bedroom, two-bathroom home is a short stroll from Schull harbour and village – one of the most popular tourist destinations on the West Cork coastline.

Built twenty years ago, the timber-frame, timber-clad house was ahead of its time in terms of sustainability, with a B3 energy rating and underfloor heating throughout. A studio and a sitting room could make a third and fourth bedroom, so there’s plenty of space and the house boasts interesting fixtures such as a beautiful pair of carved Indian doors and a mature garden and sun deck out the back.

2. No. 2 Radharc Alainn, Kilcrohane, Bantry

Asking price: €239,000

The name, meaning ‘beautiful scene’ says it all; this roomy detached four-bedroom, four-bathroom residence boasts magnificent views over Dunmanus Bay.

Located within walking distance of the seafront village of Kilcrohane, the most westerly village on the Sheep’s Head peninsula, the 1,400 sq ft property is in turnkey condition; just set up your patio furniture on the terrace outside and invite everyone over for a barbecue.

3. The Beach House, Tragumna, Skibbereen 

Asking price: €395,000

It doesn’t get closer to the water’s edge than this. Set on a land bank overlooking the scenic Tragumna Bay and Drishane Island, the four-bedroom, two-bathroom Beach House is located four miles south of the market town of Skibbereen, midway between the vibrant villages of Castletownshend and Baltimore.

There are private patios for enjoying the sea breeze in the summer and large open fireplaces for gathering around during the colder months. The interior needs a little modernisation, but it’s nothing a lick of paint and some new fixtures couldn’t fix.