Hi Charlotte
I can understand your frustration and pain. And while I have not been in a same sex relationship (I am straight), love is love, no matter between what genders.
There is one thing that got my attention, and I quote:

“Upon hearing about this, she got very upset, saying she doesn’t want me to move away and be alone and without her taking care of me. She wants us to be within reach, so that whenever I got stressed and upset she could cuddle/be here for me. I know she is genuine in her intentions in ‘looking after’ me – that’s the way she has always been, very warm, caring and loving.”

She seems rather insistent on wanting to look after you. Does she not trust that you can make your own decisions? Is she expecting you to fail? Also, it sounds like her need to “look after you” is a very great need. I am wondering if this is an issue with one of her parents. Did her mother “take care” of her to the point of smothering her? Maybe she heard the message at home that she isn’t good enough, and that mother will always be there to take care of her.

Anyway, I think you should let her know how you feel. It is your life, and each one of us must live it as best we can. And if she understands, she will give you all the support you need for YOUR journey, because that is what a genuine friend / lover would do. They would want you to succeed and be happy. If she can do that, I think your friendship would become even deeper, even if you are not physically closely located to one another.

Good luck on your path.
Gunter