Originally bought as a safe haven for the Swiss government in the event of a nuclear war, Liss Ard estate in Skibbereen also has the dubious distinction of being on the market for over five years - surely an Irish record?

The 163-acre estate boasts two principal houses, a Regency-period main house and a Victorian lakeside house, with hotel status.

The extensive grounds are home to four refurbished cottages. It also has elaborately designed gardens - paid for with government grants.

This sprawling property has had a mixed history. It was built by the chieftain of the O'Donovan Clan.

In the 1980s it was run as a high-end arts centre and guest-house by German businessman Viethe Torske. It hosted concerts by artists such as Oasis, Van Morrison and Nick Cave.

Now it is now owned by a Swiss family who rent it out for private parties and as a location for films and fashion shoots.

Liss Ard is for sale by private treaty through Skibbereen agent Charles McCarthy who asking €6 million.