"Splendid Isolation" Daily Mail 20th Feb 2026
- Feb 23
- 2 min read
Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire all offer the opportunity to carve out your own little slice of "peace and quiet". For some buyers, a remote and isolated property is one of their key criteria. The sense of privacy, the connection to the elements and the scope to have your own land around you is a draw to many relocators to West Wales. We did it ourselves, buying a ten acre smallholding on the Preseli Hills; although we are within a mile of a village with a shop, garage and caffi so we aren't extremely remote in terms of services to hand. However, we have experienced days without power, fluctuating internet services, flooding to our track, blizzards and drifts that meant we were effectively stuck at home, long drives to hopsital appointments and so on. Would I move to a less remote setting?! Definitely not at the present time in our lives! The fresh air, absence of any traffic, huge dark starry skies, walks to the summit of Foel Cwmcerwyn from the front door, frogs in the pond, evenings spent watching the bats and swallows swoop over our heads as we enjoy a glass of wine.......why live anywhere else?
When considering a remote property there are many factors to evaluate, including your own health status (hospitals and doctors may be a long drive or even helicopter ride away), ability to cope in periods of poor weather (can you factor in a generator, supplies of food, heating, water etc in the event of extended power cuts?). and mental reslience (do you like your own company or do you need a neighbour who will be at the other side of a fence for a cheery exchange?). There are few downsides for many buyers, as long as you are well prepared, are in good overall health and use a very knowledgeable solicitor. We always highlight that buyers must ensure that the conveyancing is very thorough so access, boundaries, etc. are checked in minute detail as these are what can cause problems later. It is also vital that water supplies are checked for water quality and reliability, sewage systems are inspected and flood risk is thoroughly assessed. Ensure the property has a good water supply - a stream from which water is taken may dry up in very dry weather so it may be necessary to dig a bore hole for instance. Considering your heating is key too; most remote homes are oil fired and making sure your tank is compliant and safe ensures you'll stay warm. Having an alternative source of heat is also very good advice as log burners can be used to cook on in time of power outages too. Pets are generaly big fans of them too!
Carol Peett, company founder and consultant, was recently asked for her views on remote living below and her key advice was "be prepared for harsh weather". Read her full comments below:
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Emma Salmon 07736 042516 emma@westwalespropertyfinders.co.uk
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