Pennan is a strip of whitewashed, gabled-ended cottages at the foot of craggy but green mountainous terrain. The properties run along, and are protected by, the curve of the harbour wall. In the summer, residents enjoy the lapping waters of the Moray Firth – home to bottlenose dolphins and grey and common seals. In the warmer months, basking sharks and minke whales also come to feed.
Come winter and the dramatic landscape comes alive as storms roll in off the North Sea. The 'Jewel of Morayshire' has another claim to fame beyond its striking appearance and situation. The small village featured in the cult classic Local Hero (filmed in the '80s). Film buffs from across the world come to make a call in the red phone box (a reference to the movie) which has been listed since 1989.
On a practical level, the village is an hour's drive north of Aberdeen and has a pub, The Pennan Inn, a small hotel, a coffee shack (Coastal Cuppie) and a village hall. The location appeals to artists of course, with resident photographer Fiona, running Focal Hero Gallery and an honesty shop.
There's a summer dance at the hall which sits under the red sandstone cliff, a Christmas wreath workshop and craft fayres. Millshore Pottery is a short walk away and there is a chapel on the hill.
Of course, few homes come up for sale in this micro market, but there is more property available in Fraserburgh – the nearest town and Scotland's main shellfish port. Hamish Spencer-Nairn, head of office Perth.