West Coast of Scotland: Prime locations to buy a property
The west coast of Scotland is a land of raw beauty, deep tranquillity, and timeless charm.
Stretching from sheltered bays to sweeping island vistas, this region offers a diverse tapestry of places to call home, whether you’re seeking a peaceful permanent residence or a cherished second home by the sea.
From harbour towns to remote, windswept villages, the west coast invites buyers to embrace a slower pace, a stronger sense of place, and a life shaped by nature.
In this guide, we explore some of the most desirable locations on the west coast of Scotland to purchase a home and discover what makes each one so captivating.
Oban: The gateway to the Isles
Oban is a bustling coastal town that seamlessly blends community spirit with access to the wild beauty of the Inner Hebrides. Known as the “Gateway to the Isles,” Oban is well-connected by road, rail, and ferry, yet offers a relaxed pace of life.
Its welcoming atmosphere, quality schools, independent shops, and waterside restaurants make it ideal for families and second-home owners alike.
Property options in Oban range from elegant Victorian townhouses to modern apartments and coastal homes with panoramic views, perfect for those who want their home to feel like a retreat, every day.
Fort William: Life beneath the Highlands
Fort William sits beneath the shadow of Ben Nevis and offers a gateway to some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes. It’s a haven for walkers, cyclists, and lovers of the great outdoors.
With excellent amenities including supermarkets, schools, healthcare services, and strong transport links, it’s well-suited to those seeking a full-time lifestyle change or a home-from-home that encourages year-round adventure.
Properties include traditional Highland cottages and contemporary homes with mountain or loch views, ideal for anyone inspired by nature.
Isle of Mull: A slow island rhythm
For those moving to the west coast of Scotland to escape the noise of modern life, Mull is ideal. It offers tranquillity, community, and stunning natural surroundings.
Its colourful capital, Tobermory, is rich in charm and provides everything needed for island living, including local shops, a school, and a vibrant harbour.
Whether you are looking for a whitewashed cottage, a sea-view bungalow, or a hideaway surrounded by hills, Mull balances peaceful seclusion with reliable access to the mainland via the Oban ferry.
It’s a perfect choice for anyone dreaming of an island lifestyle grounded in nature and simplicity.
The Isle of Skye: Iconic beauty with everyday appeal
Skye’s spectacular landscapes and magnetic charm have long drawn visitors, but for many, it becomes a place to put down roots. From the jagged Cuillin mountains to serene sea lochs, the island offers visual drama and a deep sense of place.
Portree provides schools, shops, and a thriving arts scene, while nearby villages like Dunvegan and Broadford offer even greater tranquillity.
Homes range from traditional stone cottages to beautifully designed modern homes, often set in breathtaking surroundings. For second-home buyers or those relocating for a slower pace and deeper connection with nature, Skye is an enduring favourite.
Mallaig: A characterful coastal hub
Perched at the edge of the mainland, Mallaig is a fishing village with strong island links, including the ferry to Uig on Skye. It is also the end of the iconic West Highland railway line, making it a scenic and well-connected destination.
With essential amenities including schools, shops, and a welcoming community, Mallaig offers an appealing balance of convenience and coastal charm.
Property options include classic fishermen’s cottages, homes with sea views, and scenic plots for those dreaming of building something personal.
For buyers wanting a west coast lifestyle with a foot in both mainland and island worlds, Mallaig is a natural fit.
Ullapool: Creative energy and Highland calm
Ullapool is a village set on Loch Broom, known for its artistic spirit, ferry access to the Outer Hebrides, and dramatic northern landscapes.
It hosts festivals, markets, and live music, giving it a unique cultural identity while maintaining a gentle rhythm. Homebuyers will find traditional stone cottages, contemporary eco-homes, and houses nestled into hillside plots.
Whether you’re looking for a full-time home in the heart of the Highlands or a seasonal retreat with soul, the beautiful village of Ullapool will draw you in with its strong sense of place and community feel.
Gairloch: Coastal calm with local charm
Gairloch is a series of peaceful bays scattered along the west coast of Scotland. Known for sandy beaches, excellent walking, and scenic golf, it offers a gentle pace of life ideal for homebuyers seeking space, beauty, and calm.
Local services, including a school, post office, and shops, ensure practicality without sacrificing tranquillity. Homes here vary from croft houses to custom builds, many boasting sweeping sea or mountain views.
Gairloch is particularly attractive to those looking to work remotely or embrace semi-retirement in nature’s embrace.
Lochinver: Wild beauty with a warm welcome
Nestled beneath the awe-inspiring Assynt mountains, Lochinver is a small fishing village surrounded by white-sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and wildlife-rich terrain.
Despite its remoteness, Lochinver maintains a sense of vibrancy. There are local shops, a school, cafes, and a strong community.
Buyers will find stone cottages, beautifully updated homes, and land with potential. It’s perfect for those seeking deep immersion in the landscape, where every window frames a view and every day invites exploration.
Clachtoll and Achmelvich: Hidden Highlands retreats
Just north of Lochinver, these two small settlements offer some of Scotland’s most stunning coastal scenery. With turquoise waters, golden beaches, and raw, untamed beauty, they embody the elemental allure of the northwest Highlands.
Though amenities are minimal, the sense of escape is maximal. Property here is limited but special: whitewashed crofts, holiday homes, and land parcels that beg for vision.
If you are seeking somewhere that truly feels off-grid, but still reachable, Clachtoll and Achmelvich offer both seclusion and splendour.
Plockton: One of the west coast’s prettiest villages
Often described as the jewel of the west coast, Plockton combines Highland tradition with unexpected Riviera flair. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, palm trees line the shore, while pastel cottages reflect in calm waters.
A small school, a popular inn, and art galleries round out this peaceful, pretty village. With its proximity to the Skye Bridge and a direct rail link to Inverness, Plockton is easily accessible yet wonderfully tucked away. For buyers who want beauty, charm, and a strong community, it’s hard to beat.
Key considerations for West Coast homebuyers
- Transport and Accessibility: Remote areas may require ferry access or long drives; consider how regularly you will travel.
- Seasonal Rhythm: These locations often come alive in summer and quieten in winter; be sure the lifestyle fits your expectations.
- Connectivity: Broadband availability can vary; essential for remote working.
- Property Availability: Demand can outstrip supply in popular spots; flexibility and preparation are key.
- Planning Restrictions: Scenic protections may impact development and renovation options; professional advice is recommended.
Living on the west coast of Scotland
The west coast of Scotland invites you to live more slowly, more deeply, and more in tune with nature. Whether you are setting down permanent roots or establishing a peaceful second home, the opportunities here are as varied as the landscape itself.
At Garrington Property Finders, we understand that buying a home is about more than square footage; it’s about finding a place that speaks to you. With our local insight and tailored support, we’ll help you discover the west coast property that feels just right.
Let’s begin your journey to the west coast of Scotland today. You can contact us for an initial discussion about your requirements without obligation. We would be delighted to help.
