The Oyster Catcher

Enjoying arguably one of the finest positions in Portmahomack, The Oystercatcher presents a rare opportunity to acquire a substantial and highly versatile coastal property extending to approximately 275m². Dating from around 1850, this well-known establishment is widely regarded as one of the village’s most recognisable hospitality venues, having been operated by the current owners for over 25 years as a restaurant with three letting rooms and owner’s accommodation. While the business has historically enjoyed a strong reputation, it is now trading on a reduced basis as the owners, due to age and a long-standing wish to retire, have been gradually scaling back operations over a number of years. This has resulted in a property that is more renowned locally than it is currently operating at full commercial capacity, yet it offers significant untapped potential for a new owner to re-establish and fully realise its former prominence. Now offered to the market as the owners begin to step back further from day-to-day involvement, the property provides exceptional scope for a purchaser wishing to reinvigorate the hospitality venture, develop an alternative commercial enterprise or, subject to the appropriate planning consents, create an outstanding coastal residence. With uninterrupted views across the Dornoch Firth towards Dornoch itself, the setting is truly one of the property’s defining features.

The ground floor accommodates the existing business and comprises an entrance vestibule and reception hall leading to the restaurant and split-level café, both enjoying an abundance of natural light. A well-equipped split-level commercial kitchen serves the dining areas and is complemented by a utility room, wine cellar and separate ladies’, gents’ and accessible toilet facilities

The first floor offers three comfortable letting bedrooms, one en-suite bathroom, together with a family bathroom and separate shower room. In addition, the owner’s private accommodation incorporates a lounge, kitchenette, bedroom and shower room, providing an ideal arrangement for those wishing to live on-site whilst operating a business. Although the property would benefit from upgrading, it offers tremendous flexibility and the potential to create an exceptional home or boutique hospitality destination in one of the Highlands’ most picturesque seaside villages.

Externally, the property continues to impress with a substantial workshop complete with electricity and running water, offering excellent storage or exciting conversion potential, subject to the necessary planning permissions. Two external cold stores, while currently non-operational, provide further ancillary space. To the rear, the enclosed features mature fruit trees, fruit bushes, a pergola and chicken coop, all awaiting sympathetic restoration. Situated just moments from the harbour, sandy beach and local amenities, and enjoying breathtaking panoramic sea views,

The Oystercatcher represents a unique lifestyle and business opportunity with enormous future potential.

Key Features

Prominent coastal property extending to approximately 275m²

Successful restaurant with three letting bedrooms and owner’s accommodation

Spectacular uninterrupted views across the bay towards Dornoch

Potential to continue as a hospitality business or convert to residential use (subject to planning)

Large workshop with electricity and running water offering further development potential

Enclosed rear garden with fruit trees, pergola and chicken coop

Established Highland business owned and operated by the same family for over 25 years

Accommodation

Ground Floor

Café – 9.80m x 5.00m

Restaurant – 7.44m x 4.33m

Commercial Kitchen – 7.09m x 2.80m

Accessible WC – 1.64m x 2.22m

Ladies’ WC – 1.69m x 2.71m

Gents’ WC – 1.36m x 1.89m

Utility Room – 2.16m x 2.08m

Wine Cellar – 3.97m x 3.00m

Workshop/Shed – 15.50m x 4.00m

First Floor

Bedroom 1 – 3.67m x 3.76m

En-suite – 4.20m x 1.60m

Bedroom 2 – 3.21m x 3.36m

Bedroom 3 – 5.19m x 3.16m

Shower Room – 1.48m x 2.06m

Bathroom – 3.32m x 2.61m

Owner’s Accommodation

Lounge – 4.47m x 4.29m

Bedroom – 3.08m x 3.62m

Shower Room – 1.61m x 2.08m