From Issue Ten of Hidden Scotland Magazine
A Modern Highland Life
What it takes to make a life in the rural Highlands.
Words by Rachel Rowley · Photographs by Alex Martin & Iain Biggs
Printed in Issue Ten of Hidden Scotland Magazine, Spring and Summer 2025.
Is it a dream or can it be reality? Rural living may seem ethereal and has in many ways never been easier and yet the challenges of infrastructure, resources and weather all persist. What does it take to build the bridge between the dream and reality? Join us as we explore A Highland Life in Rannoch and read on to walk in the footsteps of Kate and Andrew Duncan to learn more about how they really live, work and create a sustainable legacy on their estate.
As the Caledonian forests, Pictish stones and shielings rightly remind us, there has been life and resilience in Rannoch for longer than any of us can remember. The ancient beauty and rich heritage of the moors, mountains, lochs and glen is mysterious and captivating. It is here that Kate and Andrew Duncan have made their home and are committed to creating a life and lasting legacy for themselves, their young children and the community they are proudly part of. Beyond that, they also work hard to share the joys, traditions and practicalities of rural living in this part of Scotland. Their enterprising creation, A Highland Life is building a positive future for them and those to come. Their vision is as broad and beguiling as the Highland landscape.
For members
Keep reading with membership
The rest of A Modern Highland Life is for members. Printed in Issue 10, from page 152.
A year. Every issue and guidebook online, every article in full.
Join with DigitalA year. All of Digital, and two new issues posted to your door.
Join with PrintAlready a member? Sign in · Read the opening pages of Issue 10 free
The Unsung Corner
Tall Tale
Wilderness Watch