Relocation specialist and coastal property expert Nigel Bishop casts his expert eye over the coastal property scene.
I believe it can be justifiably argued Scotland has the most diverse and unspoilt coastline of the United Kingdom – just think of The West Coast Isles, The Hebrides, The Orkney and Shetland Isles and the long east coast facing The North Sea.
With a scattered and relatively small population the opportunities for buying a secluded coastal property are infinite, assuming inevitable compromises to the modern world are accepted – distance and accessibility and maybe connection to technology. A lifestyle to be embraced for the fortunate.
Scattered along the coast are busy towns forming the hub for the rural communities – fishing ports, university towns and commercial centres provide employment and services alongside in many cases a strong tourist centre.
Internal flights to regional airports have opened areas previously too remote for regular access by car or train and in turn have seen growth in property development in many areas alongside the traditional properties ranging from single-storey crofts to impressive stone country houses, shooting estates, loch front properties and those imposing castles for which Scotland is recognised. Scotland boasts so much stunning water scenery that many properties inland overlook lochs and canals, where water orientated activities are enjoyed.
The Western Isles tend to be the most popular with incomers due to the weather, the scenery and indeed beaches. For sailors many a happy day is spent exploring the numerous islands, bringing welcome income to the residents offering hospitality.
As the world shrinks with technology and the post-Covid ‘work from home’ strategy, many rural and coastal areas across the United Kingdom have seen a surge in interest for property where the work/life balance weighs towards the lifestyle. This inevitably has seen a rise in interest and values of all coastal property and with it the possibilities for new income generating ventures – the world moves ever forwards.
Here’s this month’s selection of two amazing coastal properties for sale in Scotland:
Appin House, Argyll and Bute
Appin House is a period gem. Credit: Bidwells
Midway between Oban and Fort William, overlooking Loch Linnhe – a water sports dream! A period gem with potential to provide an architecturally unique and historically interesting home, immortalised by Robert Louis Stevenson in Kidnapped. Together with five self-contained apartments offering a good income stream this is a true lifestyle opportunity. (bidwells.co.uk; 01397 702433).
Tigh Tasgaidh, Dornie, Kyle of Lochlalsh
Tigh Tasgaidh is in a spectacular location. Credit: Strutt & Parker
A stunning landmark period home meticulously restored and extended in a spectacular location overlooking Loch Long in the pretty village of Dornie not far from Eilean Donan Castle. (struttandparker.com, 01463 719171).
Kavit Wyre, Orkney
Kavit Wyre offers a perfect lifestyle opportunity. Credit: Ross Nicholas & Company
Sitting on the island of Wye – a perfect lifestyle opportunity! Modernised farmhouse, cottage for renovation, 900 metres of foreshore and 80 acres including a Charolais x herd of cattle! The Good Life! (rossnicholas.co.uk; 01425 62500).
For more expert advice from the property expert, check out Nigel’s last column here.
