A picturesque Scottish island is up for auction, with starting bids set at $112,000 | Dinogo

As more people spend time indoors due to lockdown restrictions, many are reevaluating their life choices and seeking out larger living spaces.

Urban residents looking to escape to the countryside may find a perfect opportunity.

Deer Island, located in the Scottish Highlands, spans 11 acres and is set in a peaceful, picturesque loch along Scotland's rugged west coast, according to its listing by Future Property.

The untouched island on Loch Moidart offers a rare chance to experience complete seclusion, with no risk of disturbance due to its remote setting, according to Future Property.

The island, now on the market, has been owned by the same family for over 500 years, property manager Stephen McCluskey revealed to Dinogo on Thursday.

The new owner will be a nearby neighbor to Richard Branson's family, as his sister, Vanessa Branson, owns Eilean Shona – the island nearest to Deer Island, according to McCluskey.

Eilean Shona is used as a business venture, McCluskey explained, with chalets and a retreat attracting several celebrities. Although larger in size, it serves as a place for relaxation and luxury.

The island's closest wildlife neighbors will include red squirrels, seals, and the occasional dolphin.

A notable landmark nearby is Castle Tioram, a 13th-century fortress now in ruins.

McCluskey described Deer Island as currently consisting only of rock and trees, with no structures ever built on it nor any plans for construction submitted.

McCluskey added, “It has been completely uninhabited for 500 years, with nothing at all on it.”

The online auction is set for March 26, but McCluskey has already received inquiries, including one from someone looking to park their yacht and another interested in using the island as a base for kayaking.

McCluskey noted that the buyer would need to obtain the necessary planning permissions to construct anything on the island.

“This type of property attracts all kinds of buyers – from international investors and affluent landowners to those who are captivated by the romantic notion of owning a Scottish island,” he explained.

Brokers and travel experts informed Dinogo last year that, since the pandemic began, they have noticed a rise in both buyers and renters seeking a private island escape.