281 Lynch Rd Coonawarra SA 5263

A Rare Historic Opportunity in the Heart of Coonawarra

Set on 5 hectares (12.35 acres) in one of South Australia’s most celebrated wine regions, Balragon presents a remarkable opportunity to acquire and reimagine a piece of local history. Offered for sale for only the second time in its 124-year history, this significant homestead invites vision, restoration and possibility.

The History

Built in 1901, Balragon was constructed for the McGillivray family and originally formed part of the vast and historic Maaoupe Park estate. The McGillivray family holds an important place in the history of Penola and the surrounding district. Balragon and the surrounding land remained in the family until 2020, making this an exceptionally rare offering steeped in provenance and local significance.

The Home

This charming 124 year old homestead is in excellent original, condition and showcases the quality craftsmanship and enduring character typical of its era.

Character & Architectural Features:

- Solid local limestone construction with thick load-bearing walls and striking feature quoining

- Soaring high ceilings throughout

- A classic bullnose verandah wrapping the Northern and Eastern sides of the home, supported by timber posts and ornate cast-iron brackets

- High skirting boards and beautifully detailed window and door architraves

- A striking feature front timber door and quality timber windows, including a standout bay window in the main living area

- Elegant marble mantles in both the living and dining rooms

The Layout:

- Large formal living room with marble fireplace, East facing bay window with original timber sash windows, North facing door opening onto the verandah, polished timber floors and sweeping rural views

- Formal dining room (or potential fourth bedroom) with marble fireplace and desirable northern outlook

- Three additional generous rooms, ideally suited as bedrooms

- Wide central hallway enhancing space, proportion and flow

- Electricity available

The Land

The property is offered on a 5-hectare (12.35 acre) title, with the vendor open to negotiating a boundary realignment to suit the purchaser’s needs.

The surrounding land is ideal for landscaping, or livestock grazing, with ground (bore) water available and offers expansive rural views in all directions.

The Opportunity

Balragon presents an outstanding renovation and restoration opportunity. With strong bones, timeless proportions and a practical existing floorplan, the home lends itself to a sympathetic transformation that blends historic charm with modern living.

The current layout can be retained, to create a beautiful home with scope for a substantial rear extension incorporating a kitchen, bathroom and laundry, all designed to capture the home’s prized northerly aspect.

Beyond residential potential, the property’s location offers exciting tourism and commercial possibilities. Balragon could be reimagined as:

- A cellar door or restaurant

- Boutique guest accommodation

- A regional visitor experience celebrating the history, produce and landscapes of Coonawarra and the Limestone Coast

Location & Region

The property is next door to the airstrip and is a 4-minute drive to the Coonawarra township with General Store and Post Office, acclaimed cellar doors and the highly regarded Ottelia restaurant, making it ideal for both lifestyle living and tourism ventures.
The historic township of Penola is only 10 minutes away, offering cafés, boutique shopping and essential services, while Naracoorte - approximately 25 minutes’ drive - provides major supermarkets, suppliers and regional amenities.

The wider Coonawarra and Penola region is internationally recognised for its distinctive terra rossa soils, world-class wine production and rich agricultural heritage. Paired with historic townships, vibrant food and wine experiences and a strong sense of community, the region delivers a relaxed lifestyle, clean country air and a thriving blend of tourism, farming and viticulture - making it a highly desirable destination to live, invest or escape to the country.

A rare offering of history, land and potential - Balragon is an opportunity not to be missed.

Expressions of Interest closes 6 February 2026 at 4:00pm, unless sold prior.

Contact Karly Honner 0438 339 729 or Mark De Garis 0428 372 124 to arrange an inspection.

Property Code: 1023