Angela Johnson, founder of Oldshoremore Retreats gives a guide to the challenges and triumphs of relocating to the North Highlands.

Moving to the Highlands was a dream we nurtured for years. Coming from the rolling landscapes of North Yorkshire, we were accustomed to picturesque countryside, warm community ties, and the comforting familiarity of home. But something about the wild, rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands kept calling us. And so, we made the leap, trading our settled life for a new adventure in one of the most remote and breathtaking corners of the UK. The journey wasn’t without challenges, but in the end, it led to the birth of our business, Oldshoremore Retreats and Craft Shop. If you’re considering a similar move, we hope our story inspires and guides you.

The Challenges of Relocating to the Highlands

Anyone contemplating a move to the Highlands should prepare for a few hurdles along the way. While the Highlands offer unparalleled beauty and serenity, they also come with a set of practical challenges that can test even the most determined individuals.

The Logistics of Moving

Relocating from North Yorkshire to Oldshoremore was no small feat. Unlike moving within a well-connected town or city, shifting to the Highlands meant tackling limited transport options, unpredictable weather conditions, and longer travel times for moving vans and all in the middle of a Pandemic!! Finding a property that suited our needs while being accessible was another challenge, as the housing market in these remote areas is quite different from urban locations.

Adjusting to Isolation

Life in the Highlands is slower-paced and deeply rewarding, but it can also feel isolating. In North Yorkshire, we had friends and family nearby, along with easy access to amenities. Oldshoremore, in contrast, is a world apart, with vast open spaces and fewer immediate neighbours. Adjusting to the remoteness required a mindset shift, as well as ensuring we had reliable internet and phone service to stay connected with loved ones.

Weather and Infrastructure

The Highland weather is infamous for being unpredictable. From powerful storms to long, dark winters, the elements test your resilience. Roads can be affected by snowfall, but access to supplies with a local shop is rarely a problem. Learning how to prepare for and embrace these seasonal challenges was essential to settling in comfortably.

Employment and Business Considerations

Finding employment in remote areas can be difficult, particularly if you’re accustomed to urban job markets. We knew we wanted to be self-sufficient, and that meant creating our own livelihood. But setting up a business in a sparsely populated region presents challenges, from initial investment to attracting customers from a smaller local population.

The Birth of Oldshoremore Retreats and Craft Shop

Despite these challenges, we saw immense potential in the Highlands, not just as a place to live, but as a destination where people could experience the tranquillity and creativity the landscape inspires. That’s how Oldshoremore Retreats and Craft Shop came to life.

One of the biggest lessons we learned is that success in the Highlands comes from embracing what makes the area unique. We wanted to share the peace, beauty, and inspiration of Oldshoremore with others, and so we created a retreat business offering cosy accommodations, creative retreats, and a craft shop featuring locally made goods.

Rather than seeing the remoteness as a challenge, we turned it into an advantage. We joined local groups but also created our own. Our little poetry group has even published its own anthology in October 2024 and in September 2024 we partnered with local artisans to stock our shop with handmade crafts, from textiles to woodwork. Supporting local talent not only enriches our offerings but strengthens the community economy as well. We also drove to get the dormant angling club back up and running. We’ve genuinely made more friends in the Highlands than we ever did in North Yorkshire, which has been an incredible experience.

Marketing a business in such a remote location required strategic thinking. We focused on social media, storytelling, and leveraging the growing trend of tourism as we came out of the Pandemic. By highlighting the breathtaking landscapes, peaceful atmosphere, and unique experiences we offer, we’ve been able to draw visitors from all over the world.

Encouraging You to Follow Your Dream

Making a move like this isn’t for everyone, but if you’ve ever dreamed of escaping the hustle and bustle to create something meaningful in a remote location, here are a few words of encouragement:

Be Prepared, But Flexible

Planning is essential, whether it’s for the logistics of moving, understanding the business landscape, or preparing for Highland winters. But flexibility is just as important. Expect the unexpected and be ready to adapt when needed.

Find a Niche and Fill It

Success in remote business ventures often comes from identifying a gap and offering something unique. For us, that meant combining accommodation, retreats, and a craft shop. For you, it might be something entirely different, but the key is to find a way to offer value.

Embrace the Community

Highland communities may be small, but they are incredibly diverse. Engaging with local networks, supporting fellow businesses, and participating in events helps integrate you into the fabric of your new home. The connections you build will make all the difference.

Enjoy the Journey

Moving to the Highlands and setting up our business has been one of the most rewarding experiences of our lives. The challenges made us stronger, and the rewards, being surrounded by breathtaking scenery, doing work we love, and meeting incredible people, have been worth every effort.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering a move to the Highlands, our advice is simple: go for it but go prepared. The lifestyle shift is significant, but so are the opportunities for personal growth and meaningful work. For those dreaming of starting their own retreat, craft shop, or remote business, know that it is possible with the right mindset, determination, and a love for the Highlands’ rugged beauty.

We welcome you to visit Oldshoremore Retreats and see for yourself why we made this move. We’re here Tuesday to Saturday so call into the shop and we’ll happily share any help we can with you.