We’re all about that al fresco life these days.

Ever since the pandemic made open-air get-togethers essential, the garden and patio have become key spaces for entertaining.

Now that we’re allowed indoors again, we kinda miss the flickering candles, the cosy blankets and the drinks under the stars, TBH.

No matter what your budget looks like, chances are that outdoor space of some kind is high on your list of househunting priorities.

And not everyone is dreaming of a manicured lawn – in fact, many of us crave the simplicity and ease of a lawnmower-free existence. If your green fingers extend no further than a raised bed and a few terracotta pots, a terrace is the perfect option.

Just a sunny corner to place a chair and big glass of wine would be ideal, really.

Here are five properties where lovely outdoor terraces are a key feature:

1. 6 Castle Terrace, Monkstown, Co. Cork

Asking price: €309,000

This charming three-bedroom townhouse enjoys water views of Monkstown Harbour from the front and an adorable rear terrace where you can take the sea air in private over a G&T at the end of a long day.

The home dates back to 1860 and has been tastefully renovated, with French doors in the living room leading out to a fully walled-in courtyard with mature shrubs and trees.

2. 1 Maryville, Friars Walk, Co. Cork

Asking price: €335,000

This four-bed semi-detached property has plenty of attractive features, not least the original brickwork, which was sandblasted and repointed during renovation, but it’s the rear garden space that caught our attention.

Professionally landscaped and laid with granite paving and old brick tiles, this little oasis boasts raised flower beds and an outside tap, light and double socket for your hipster festoon lights.

3. 22 Grattan Hill, St. Luke’s, Co. Cork

Asking price: €495,000

This three-bedroom end-of-terrace property was built in the 1820s and fully renovated in 2007.

There are three garden areas in total, all boasting mature greenery, including fig, apple, pear and eucalyptus trees, and a large balcony area to the rear, all adding to the secret hideaway vibe, just a stone’s throw from the buzz of the city.

4. 15 Dyke Parade, Co. Cork

Asking price: €665,000

This magnificent five-bedroom, three storey period residence extends to a whopping 3,122 sq ft, with gorgeous original features including high ceilings, ornate cornicing, and feature marble fireplaces.

It also enjoys the benefit of a significant three-storey extension to the rear, where the kitchen opens out onto the south-facing natural stone walled-in gardens and patio, all laid out in mature shrubbery.

Just add a chilled glass of Chablis.

5. 15 Cork Street, Kinsale, Co. Cork

Asking price: €895,000

No. 15 Cork Street is a period home in the heart of Kinsale, every inch of which has been beautifully restored and refurbished into a luxurious four-bed family residence.

One of our favourite additions is the cosy garden terrace and barbeque area complete with dining table and synthetic grass. No mowing required = more time for sipping cold beer in the evening sunshine.