Maureen O’Hara, one of Hollywood’s golden era icons, captivated audiences with her performances in timeless classics such as The Quiet Man and Miracle on 34th Street. Despite her international fame, O’Hara always felt most at home in her native Ireland. Her retreat from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood was a picturesque mansion in County Cork, nestled on a stunning 35-acre estate known as Lugdine Park. Take a Glimpse into Maureen O’Hara’s Beautiful Irish Home.
The Majestic Beauty of Lugdine Park
Lugdine Park is a breathtaking property, located on the shores of Glengarriff Bay. With its two islands and a private beach, the estate offers unmatched serenity. The rolling woodlands and sweeping views of the Cork/Kerry Mountains in the distance make this one of the most sought-after properties in Ireland. It’s no wonder that Maureen O’Hara fell in love with this idyllic setting, using it as a sanctuary away from the bustling film sets.
The property also features a quaint cottage and outdoor changing rooms, with over 30 “ladies’ walks” meandering through the lush grounds. These peaceful paths provided the perfect backdrop for O’Hara to relax, reflect, and enjoy the natural beauty of her homeland.
A Personal and Community Connection
O’Hara purchased the estate in 1970 with her husband, Captain Charles F. Blair, Jr., and over the years, she became deeply integrated into the local community. A regular at the local golf club, O’Hara helped establish an annual tournament and spoke fondly of the local people, praising them as the “most wonderful neighbors a person could hope for.”
Despite her celebrity status, the local community respected O’Hara’s privacy, allowing her to feel at home. She often reminisced about the friendly nature of the people, sharing stories of “lost” tourists who would stumble upon her estate, cameras in hand, hoping for a chance encounter with the legendary star.
Entertaining Celebrities and VIPs
Lugdine Park wasn’t just a retreat for O’Hara—it was also a place where she hosted numerous celebrities and VIPs. Among her guests was former Mayor of New York, Ed Koch, who became enchanted with the area. O’Hara fondly recalled their time together, describing how Koch would spend mornings sipping coffee and gazing at the magnificent views from her home.
A Fond Farewell to Lugdine Park
In 2012, O’Hara made the difficult decision to sell Lugdine Park so she could be closer to her family, particularly her grandson in Idaho. Although she left Ireland, her heart remained with the people and landscapes that had shaped so much of her life. As she departed, O’Hara shared her bittersweet sentiment with The Irish Times, stating, “You miss Ireland for all your life when you leave. I miss looking out my bedroom window at the boats coming in and eating at Casey’s.”
Her memories of Glengarriff and its vibrant community stayed with her, a reflection of how much Ireland meant to the Hollywood legend.
The Celebrity Appeal of County Cork
County Cork’s scenic charm has long attracted international stars seeking respite from their busy lives. Maureen O’Hara’s love for the area is shared by others, including Irish-American dancer Michael Flatley, Hollywood star Angela Lansbury, and British actor Jeremy Irons, who also have homes in the region.
O’Hara’s time at Lugdine Park stands as a testament to her deep connection with her Irish roots. Although she has since moved on, her legacy, much like the enchanting estate she called home, remains forever tied to the timeless beauty of Ireland.
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