Dog-friendly European Escapes

"Stunning cottages in the heart of Loch Lomond National Park..."


Situated in the heart of Loch Lomond National Park, these stunning holiday properties have been lovingly restored and furnished to provide wonderful retreats.
Auchendennan Farm Cottage (SLLX) is a single-storey holiday cottage; within the house there is a large family sauna which can be used as an ideal way to unwind. Outside on the sun decking, there is a sunken hot tub which is large enough for all the family and powerful enough to give tired muscles a proper massage. Rose Cottage (SRRG) is a single-storey conversion adjoining the owner’s farmhouse. Combining modern and traditional furnishings, the property boasts a superb hot tub and external sun decked area for relaxing and unwinding. Burnbeag (SVVE) is a stunning, detached cottage to the rear of the steadings and has a stream running through its private enclosed garden, which has a decked area and hot tub. Courtyard Studio (SVVD) is a single-storey barn conversion set in the courtyard, behind the main house. Chestnut Cottage (SXXO), Willow Cottage (SXXP), Primrose Cottage (SXXQ) and Ivy Cottage (SXXR) are all pretty single-storey, semi-detached holiday cottages, with open-plan living areas and a cosy, wood-burning stove.
In summer, Loch Lomond’s ancient oak woods ring with birdsong. Look out for redstarts, pied flycatchers and wood warblers. Ospreys are summer visitors to the loch and nearby Lake of Menteith. In the high country of Breadalbane, golden eagles may be seen soaring over mountain slopes richly carpeted in alpine plants. Watch out for porpoises and seals and glimpse Loch Lomond’s herd of fallow deer as they bound through the trees. Loch Lomond and Loch Earn are some of Scotland’s prime venues for sailing and water-skiing, while the rivers Balvaig and Teith are popular with canoeists. The Teith is also a great salmon river and one of many places popular with anglers. For golfing enthusiasts, the famous courses of Loch Lomond are just a short distance from the property, with an abundance of courses for all standards within easy reach.
Walking is a popular pursuit, from gentle low-level strolls to strenuous mountain climbs. Ben Lomond, Ben Lui, Ben Ime and Ben Vorlich are among the 21 Munros (mountains over 3000 feet). The West Highland Way stretches from the edge of Glasgow to Fort William, hugging the banks of Loch Lomond and passing through the spectacular mountain scenery of Strathfillan. There are great opportunities for cycling on and off road on National Cycle Network Route 7, which passes through the National Park from Balloch to Killin. Cameron House, the 5 star golf/spa resort is just minutes from the property where one can enjoy fine dining, day spa packages and championship golf. Lomond Shores, again a short distance from the property, offers designer shopping, loch cruises and an aquarium. The cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh are easily accessible by car boasting award winning restaurants, theatres, galleries and concert venues, designer shopping as well as many tourist attractions including the breath-taking Edinburgh Castle. Shops 2 miles, pub ¼ mile.

Auchendennan Farm Cottage (SLLX) can be booked together with Rose Cottage (SRRG) to accommodate up to 10 guests.

Degnish Farmhouse sits proudly alone within a 1100-acre working hill farm at the western end of Loch Melfort and has spectacular panoramic sea and adjacent island views. Surrounded by abundant wildlife, including otters, seals and birdlife and with easy access to golf, horse riding, sea kayaking, fishing and sailing, this comfortable south-facing detached holiday property offers a perfect retreat in a glorious setting.
The house has been lovingly re-built to a very good standard, with underfloor heating, double glazing and an emphasis on the wonderful views.
Ideally based for exploring the west coast, there are plenty of ferry trips nearby to Mull, Arran, Gigha, Islay, Colonsay or Tiree. The bustling harbour town of Oban, known as the ‘Gateway to the Isles’, is a scenic drive north and is home to an array of shops and restaurants. Inveraray Castle, historic Kilmartin Glen, and the Crinan Canal make for wonderful days out. Ardmaddy Castle and Gardens are 3½ miles over the hill, and can be accessed on foot, by 4-wheel drive or via the road to Seil Island. Guests enjoy free access to the gardens and are also welcome to use the estate’s tennis court. Small motor boats can be hired at Ardmaddy. Free fishing can also be arranged on the estate’s well-stocked hill loch.
There are plenty of hill and forest trails for mountain biking and leisurely walks, or visit one of the magnificent local gardens. Whilst there is the farm and miles of coastline to explore, there is also an enclosed garden and covered outdoor BBQ area ensuring the safety of younger children whilst allowing the grown-ups to enjoy an al-fresco lunch. Shop and pub 5 miles.

This comfortable and welcoming, thatched, detached former farmhouse dates back to 1750, and has many features such as beams, low lintels and sloping floors. The main house has two living rooms, a children’s living area and a dining room which seats up to 18. There is also an indoor swimming pool and an external games room, making it ideal for family gatherings and celebrations. The old creamery, located in a separate building, has been converted into an annexe with an additional two en-suite bedrooms, and still has the exposed stone walls and floors! From the farmhouse gardens there are far-reaching views over countryside and rolling hills and it is conveniently located for trips to Lyme Regis, West Bay and Bridport. There is a local bus service for those wishing to explore the area without using the car. Park Farmhouse is located on the coast road in the heart of the charming historic village of Chideock with a pub and restaurant a couple of doors away. Julia Bradbury’s ‘Best Walks With A View’ includes a walk which encircles Park Farmhouse. A popular farm shop is about a mile away with outside seating with glorious views over the National Trust land and the famous Golden Cap which is the highest point on the south coast!

Steeped in history, Chideock was recorded in the Domesday Book as Cidihoc. In 1379-80, John de Chideock, a manorial lord, built Chideock Castle, just north of the village. During the Middle Ages, ownership passed to the Catholic Arundell family, who used it to provide refuge for priests and loyal followers during subsequent persecution. In 1802 the Arundells were succeeded by the Weld family of Lulworth Castle who in 1810, built Chideock Manor. Park Farmhouse once served the occupants of the manor for many years with cream from the creamery.

The stunning and dramatic Jurassic Coast is a World Heritage Site covering 96 miles of coastline and is less than a mile away at Seatown. It is also known for its fossil hunting. The beaches of West Bay and Lyme Regis have a traditional feel with gift shops, tea rooms, inns and restaurants. Lyme Regis with The Cobb and harbour was the setting for the filming of The French Lieutenant’s Woman. More recently, Jane Austen’s ‘Persuasion’ and Thomas Hardy’s ‘Far from The Madding Crowd’ were both filmed here. Renowned TV chef Mark Hix has an Oyster and Fish House in Lyme Regis. There are other pretty villages such as Beer and Branscombe within easy reach or you may wish to visit the numerous stately homes and gardens in the area. You can also discover Dorset’s sandy bays, rugged hill top walks and tiny coves. Fishing is available locally. Beach ¾ mile. Shop 240 yards, pub and restaurant 50 yards.

Kingates Farm nestles between the beautiful villages of Whitwell and Niton, on the southern point of the Isle of Wight. This wonderful holiday cottage includes many facilities to enable you to explore, unwind and indulge yourself in stunning surroundings. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the location offers guests amazing panoramic views of rolling hills, nearby white cliffs and the coastline. This self catering holiday property have been converted from original farm buildings and offer spacious accommodation, enclosed gardens and paddocks with direct access to foot and cycle paths.
The Stables is a perfect romantic break for two. This detached, single-storey property has vaulted ceilings, a well-equipped kitchen and a cosy wood burner. You can enjoy a peaceful nights’ sleep in the super kingsize bed, and the en-suite boasts a roll-top bath and large walk-in shower. Step out of the large patio doors to a private seating area with a barbecue and enclosed garden with far-reaching views to watch the abundant wildlife.
A welcome hamper will be waiting for you on arrival with fresh milk, butter, eggs, homemade bread and local produce (extra supplies and/or dietary alternatives available on request). All produce is locally sourced where possible and you are welcome to seasonal fruit or vegetables from the main garden.
Friendly, sociable adult dogs (over 12 months old) are welcome on holiday too but NOT left alone unless totally happy/settled in and agreed with owner in advance, while making use of the pool. They have their very own pet hamper with a microfibre mattress, towels, natural shampoo, toys, treats and pet ID tag.
There are further gardens, walking paddocks and a central outside hot and cold water hose for muddy dogs, boots or bikes. The owners, who live on-site along with their dogs and animals, are available should you need any help. You are welcome to join them for a walk or cycle to the nearby St Catherine’s Oratory or ‘Pepperpot’, as its known locally, with many options to venture further afield should you wish.
Outdoor pursuits on the island are well catered for and include horse riding, fishing, cycling, paragliding, water sports and golf. There are numerous attractions to discover for all ages. Pay a visit to Queen Victoria’s favourite holiday residence, Osborne House and its gardens, Blackgang Chine, the oldest themed attraction in the UK, the famous Needles, Ventnor Botanical Gardens, Tapnell Farm Park, Carisbrooke Castle or the sailing towns of Yarmouth and Cowes. There is plenty to discover and keep you entertained. There are local takeaway options if you fancy dining alfresco and making the most of the wide valley sunset glow. Beach 4 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant ¾ mile.
The Stables can be booked together with Farm Cottage (ref UK11246) to accommodate up to 6 guests.

Moonshine Cottage is a delightful lodge situated in its own generous garden and grounds with stunning views over open farmland to the mountains beyond. Just a mile from the charming Black Isle village of Culbokie, it offers peace and seclusion yet within close proximity of good facilities. The main living area is open plan, and this stunning room, with its high vaulted ceiling, is superbly presented. The cathedral-style floor-to-ceiling windows drink in the amazing views and ensure it is light and bright. The furniture and furnishings have been chosen with every consideration to quality and detail.The large fully fitted kitchen is exceptionally well equipped and there is a separate utility room with washing machine and tumble dryer, and sink.
There is both a bathroom with a large 1.6 m bath to sooth aching joints after a ramble and shower room on the ground floor, which have been decorated with a ‘beach hut’ theme and are both unusual and charming.
Stairs lead up from the main room to the mezzanine landing. A wonderful chandelier light hangs from the ceiling and highlights the magnificent views.
There are two beautifully presented bedrooms, both with en suite toilet and wash basin. The double bedroom has a feature carved oak antique bedstead with sumptuously deep high-quality mattress. The twin room is prettily decorated with lovely colour co-ordinated soft furnishings and looks out across the grounds. Beyond lie the fields and hills up towards Glen Affric.
Moonshine cottage has a whole house ventilation system with heat recovery system installed making it ideal for allergy sufferers, this together with an ozone sanitisation system which is used between clients together with an intensive cleaning system helps to ensure the safety of our guests. If you need to use electric to charge your car, please contact the owners for fees.
The gardens consist of preservation woodland and grassed areas as well as shingle with outdoor seating; a wonderful spot in which to sit and admire the changing scenery and watch your four-legged friend run around off lead as the gardens are enclosed. The owners’ house is situated on the adjoining land, where ducks roam.
The village provides good local amenities, including a shop, bar and restaurant. This historic area, thought to have got its name from the dark rich soil of the area, is actually a peninsula. Bounded on three sides by the sea and surrounded by unspoilt countryside, it is a haven for wildlife. Rare birds, deer, seals and otters are regularly spotted. The most famous residents of the area are the bottlenose dolphins that are frequently seen in the surrounding waters. There are numerous places of interest close by and Inverness is just 14 miles away. Beach 7½ miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.

The Stables and Horseshoe Cottage are set only ½ a mile from the upmarket village of East Boldon and makes a perfect, semi-detached single-storey holiday homes for couples and families. This community spirited village has an award winning butcher and post office and plenty of good wine bars and restaurants to satisfy everyone.

The local metro is within easy walking distance so you can explore an abundance of places including South Shields, Tynemouth, Whitley Bay and Newcastle to discover the delights of this historic and beautiful city. Nearby the award winning beaches at Seaburn and Roker are ideal for unwinding and relaxing and have been favourite family spots for many years. The lovely wide promenade and seafront are perfect for an evening stroll and are dotted with places to stop off for a snack or drink. A traditional park in Roker has play areas, lake and miniature railway set in the floral displays. Every year Sunderland illuminations brighten the seafront from September to November so staying at The Stables is an ideal base to see this fantastic show.

Tynemouth is only 10 miles away with more golden beaches and an abundance of bars and eating places. The Northumberland Heritage Coastline Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is easily reached from here via an easy road network. Visit Alnwick with its famous castle and water gardens, or travel inland and explore the National Park or Hadrian’s Wall.

The owners have an indoor and outdoor equestrian centre, so hacking out over the fields is a joy and can be done directly from the cottage. The owners welcome up to three pets to The Stables, and horses are welcomed by arrangement directly with the owner. Beach 2 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

Located in a quiet part of the popular fishing town of Whitby, Valentines On Love Lane benefits from a spacious interior and a lovely enclosed garden. This three bedroomed, semi-detached house has been thoughtfully furnished and makes for a fantastic home from home. As well as a comfortable living room, the kitchen/dining room leads into the large conservatory and the sunny garden. Valentines On Love Lane has the added advantage of off road parking for up to three cars which gives you the peace of mind when you go out for the day. There are all year round dog friendly beaches for you and your pooch to enjoy close by. A dog walker can also be arranged.

Whitby is a wonderful Gothic town with plenty to do for all the family to enjoy. Why not attend one of the many events or festivals such as the Regatta and Goth Weekender, or just stroll through the cobbled streets with its ’jet’ jewellers, Goth shops and places to eat and drink. For outdoor enthusiasts, The Cleveland Way is just a few hundred yards away, where you can turn left for Saltburn and Sandsend or right for Whitby and Robin Hood’s Bay. There is also a public golf course close by.

The Whitby coast is ideal for beach lovers and those wanting to take a boat trip out to sea in the hope of spotting a whale, or just wanting to enjoy the long stretch of all year round dog friendly beach. The Victorian town of Scarborough is just to the south, with its Sealife Centre and the popular open air theatre, attracting top musical acts for all ages. Saltburn and Sandsend are popular with surfers, and the quaint village of Staithes is worth a visit with its links to the explorer Captain James Cook.

Head inland and you will enter the North York Moors National Park with its miles of beautiful countryside, walking routes and waterfalls. If you don’t fancy a drive, take the steam train from Whitby right into ’Heartbeat country’. The medieval walled city of York is just an hour away and you’ll find plenty of attractions from The National Railway Museum to York Dungeons and The Jorvik Viking Centre. There is a rapid electric vehicle charging point within 300 yards of the property. Beach 250 yards. Shop 100 yards, pub and restaurant 200 yards.
Valentine on Love Lane can be booked together with The Garth (UK32757) to accommodate 13 guests, same ownership and 300 yards apart.

Island Farm House is situated just outside the village of Staintondale and set amongst rolling fields of the North York Moors National Park. It has a large kitchen with a seating area, a tastefully furnished dining room, a spacious living room with a wood burner and a large TV making it perfect for a large family gathering, and all seven bedrooms are en-suite for your own privacy. There is even a pool room and a tennis court on-site along with a large lawned garden to play or relax.
Island Farm House is nestled half way between Whitby and Scarborough on the North Yorkshire Coast. There are wonderful walks and cycling straight from the door and out into the National Park and there is bike storage available on-site. Enjoy the many delights of the area including hidden coves and beaches, exhilarating cliff top walks and coastal villages such as Robin Hood’s Bay, and Ravenscar where you can walk down to the foot of the cliffs to view the seal colony. Wonderful Whitby is further north with its busy cobbled streets and independent shops offering everything from Gothic clothing to jet stone jewellery. There is an abundance of traditional pubs with live music that accept pets, coffee shops and tea rooms, and an increasingly popular food scene with gastro pubs and bistros complementing award winning fish and chip shops. There are plenty of dog friendly beach areas to explore where you can enjoy rock pooling and fossil hunting. Keep an eye on the events calendar as there is always something happening in Whitby from the famous Goth weekends, a regatta, music festivals and a folk week being highlights of a year round calendar. Just south of Staintondale you will find the traditional seaside resort of Scarborough with its busy amusement arcades, a waterpark and sandy beaches. The open air theatre hosts live international acts throughout the summer, and no trip to Scarborough is complete without a stroll around Peasholm Park and the world-famous Peasholm Park Naval Warfare which takes place throughout the summer.
With the North York Moors National Park right on your doorstep there are many walks and cycle routes to explore, or just enjoy a drive through some of the most stunning scenery. There is so much to see nearby but you may fancy a trip further afield to the vibrant walled city of York, an hour away, with its ancient minster and historic buildings. For a family day out visit Flamingo Land Theme Park or perhaps a scenic drive over to the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Beach 1½ miles. Shop 5 miles, pub and restaurant 1 mile.

Oakridge is a stunning example of 1800s architecture with a luxurious, contemporary interior. This semi-detached property offers a large sociable kitchen/dining room for family meals and playing games in front of the Aga before retiring to the living room. There is a large conservatory that looks out onto the lovely garden, and the utility room has a separate shower room which is great for rinsing off after a dip in the hot tub. The kitchen patio doors open out onto the hot tub and stone-built barbecue area, and there is a separate quieter area at the far end of the garden if you just want to relax and unwind. There is a ground floor bedroom and shower room, and the spacious first floor master bedroom benefits from both a spa bath and a fantastic shower. The large landing on the first floor is perfect for relaxing with a good book.
Hinderwell is a village with excellent local amenities including a good butchers, convenience store, a local pub and a tea room all just a short walk from your doorstep. This quaint village is just a mile from the picturesque fishing village of Runswick Bay, which boasts a sandy cove with opportunities for fossil hunting and rock pooling, yet right in the North York Moors National Park. Head north or south on the Cleveland Way and visit some of the amazing coastal gems such as Staithes, Robin Hood’s Bay, Sandsend or Saltburn.
The bustling town of Whitby is a short drive or bus ride away where you will find so much to see and do. There is a 3 mile stretch of golden sandy beach, traditional amusement arcades and regular boat trips out to sea in search of minke whales and dolphins. There are many bistros and restaurants ranging from award-winning fish and chips to fine dining as well as tea rooms, coffee shops and pubs with live music. If you’re feeling energetic why not attempt the 199 steps up to the abbey that towers over Whitby.
You can drive inland to enjoy the natural beauty and some amazing heritage sites such as abbeys and monasteries within the National Park or catch a steam train as it snakes through the lush countryside to destinations such as Goathland and Pickering. There is a huge diversity of things to do in the area from surfing to golfing, and there is an abundance of walking and cycling tracks. The more traditional seaside town of Scarborough is just along the coast with its two huge bays, and the walled city of York is well worth a visit. Beach ¾ mile. Shop 50 yards, pub and restaurant 20 yards.

A great mid-terrace property, close to the centre of the Yorkshire seaside town of Hornsea. Lovingly refurbished in 2018, this Hornsea cottage provides first class accommodation for those wishing to enjoy a relaxing family holiday by the sea yet with many amenities within walking distance. This quirky cottage and its unusually shaped rooms offers open plan living at its best with a large kitchen, dining area and living room with a large wood burner which will keep you warm after walking the stunning coastline during the winter months. For children there is a games room with a small pool table and lots of board games to enjoy after a busy day building sandcastles on the beach. The well-equipped kitchen and bathroom provide all that’s expected of a home away from home. With two individually styled double bedrooms, one of which has its own en-suite facilities, and a triple room with a bunk bed and single bed, The Horseshoes offers comfortable and stylish accommodation.

There is a small, enclosed patio area to the rear which enjoys the late afternoon sun, and is the ideal location for al fresco dining during the summer months. A short walk takes you to the centre of Hornsea which has many shops, cafés, pubs and tea rooms. A stroll on the promenade is also a must during your visit. The famous Hornsea Mere, 350 yards away, offers fun-filled days of water sports, and during the summer months, a visit to Hornsea would not be complete without a trip to see Honeysuckle Farm and Mr Moo’s Ice Cream Parlour. The RSPB reserve of Bempton Cliffs, a haven for birdwatchers, and The Deep at Hull are only a short drive away. The minster town of Beverley is also within easy reach and worth a visit. The Horseshoes provides the perfect base from which to enjoy this beautiful part of Yorkshire. Beach ¾ mile. Shop 500 yards, pub 100 yards and restaurant 200 yards.