A private residence on the grounds of the Kildare Hotel and Country Club, affectionately known as The K Club which is nestled in the heart of Kildare, Ireland, only 30 minutes from Dublin Airport.

There is a place in Ireland that offers guests the ultimate in privacy and is beyond five star luxuries, a place where nothing is too much trouble and where you can feel completely at home yet still enjoy the very best of classic Irish hospitality. This is a place that has been the venue for some of the world’s most exciting golfing moments but has also been a sanctuary for guests seeking an opulent retreat. The Kildare Hotel and Country Club, affectionately known as The K Club is nestled in the heart of Kildare, The Throughbred County of Ireland, yet is only 30 minutes from Dublin Airport and Dublin city centre.

Set on the banks of the River Liffey, in the quaint village of Straffan, the Ryder Cup venue and resort includes an AA Five Red Star hotel, two championship golf courses, a Resort Spa, private stretch of river for fly fishing and several restaurants and bars. Enter the gates and drive down a pretty laneway, framed with ancient oak trees and rustling grasses, drive past a glistening lake and watch out for a leafy enclave which screens the magnificent Straffan House.

Straffan House is a private residence on the grounds of The K Club which is now available for exclusive hire. It is owned by The K Club’s founder and President, Sir. Michael Smurfit, who recently extended his interest in the resort and now, owns 100% of The K Club Resort and Estate. A palatial property, it takes its design influence from The Kildare Hotel, the original ‘Straffan House’ which is now the hotel at The K Club. The original ‘Straffan House’ was built in 1832 by Hugh Barton of the world famous Barton and Guestier Wines. The house was based on a magnificent château at Louveciennes to the west of Paris, not far from Versailles. Distinctly French in style, it bears all the hallmarks of a magnificent and elegant country retreat; huge windows overlook the manicured terraces while the many reception rooms were created with entertaining in mind.

It is remarkable that the new’ Straffan House’ looks like it is part of the history of the estate itself but was only built in 2005. It combines the solid construction and architecture of a bygone era with all of the comforts and convenience of elegant, contemporary living. High ceilings, fine stucco work and stunning chandeliers have been added throughout the property and the result is truly exceptional. Original art work adorns the walls throughout the house including works by famous Irish artists such as Irish portrait painter, Sir. William Orpen and Jack B. Yeat’s.

The house spans a massive 34,000 sq ft and is arranged with three storeys over basement. The lower ground floor houses the swimming pool, spa, gym, games room and tempting views of the glass fronted thermostatically controlled wine cellar. Hand painted murals around the private pool and spa depicts peaceful, rural scenes while speciality lighting in the ceiling reflect the water and create a soothing ambiance.

There are 10 bedrooms in total in the main house which comprise of 8 guest bedrooms, spread out over the first and second floors while staff quarters on the lower ground level contain two additional bedrooms. A two bedroom apartment located in the guest’s apartment in a separate but adjoining building on the grounds may also be included if required. All bedrooms are ensuite and there can be a mix of double and twin rooms with luxury, organic bedroom amenities, the highest quality linens and opulent furniture and soft furnishings. The many drawing, dining and reception rooms lend themselves very well to private parties or weddings and are also perfect for those looking for an elegant get away with a homely and elegant feel. Everything you could possibly want is in this house- there is even a home cinema on the second floor! The movie room has been created in an old fashioned, cinema theatre style and is complete with red velvet, reclining movie chairs, digital screen and Bose sound surround system.

The hire of the house also comes with private chef, concierge and house manager in order to make your stay as convenient and relaxing as possible. The property has direct access onto the Ryder Cup, Palmer Course and enjoys wonderful panoramic views of the famous fairways. Pit yourself against the skill and wit of the legendary golfer and walk in the footsteps of golfing champions, past and present, many of which have played here over the years. Non golfers will really enjoy a visit to K Spa, the Resort Spa at The K Club. Spanning an impressive 20,000 sq ft, K Spa offers a vast range of fantastic face and body treatments.

There is plenty to do though aside from golf and spa – with 550 acres of mature parkland all around Straffan House guests have their pick of outdoor pursuits including horse riding, clay pigeon shooting, archery and even fishing with the resident ghillees on the River Liffey which meanders through the estate. Hop on a bicycle and take a cycle around the grounds or explore the local area which has wonderful cycle paths and canal and river walks. A visit to the nearby Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens is a must as is a trip to Kildare Village for some designer retail therapy at discount prices.

Straffan House is available for private hire. The price is inclusive of full Irish breakfast, lunch, tea, coffee, homemade cookies and cake, soft drinks and snacks, pre-dinner drinks reception, gourmet dinner, pressing and laundry facilities and use of the private spa, swimming pool and cinema room. Complimentary golf is also available for guests on both of the Arnold Palmer designed championship courses.

Property Highlights

• 8 Bedroom
• 8+ Bathroom
• Sleeps 16
• 30 minutes from Dublin Airport