Pet Friendly Holidays Aberdeenshire

Constructed in 1864, this picturesque, renovated church building that has been lovingly restored making it a luxurious place for you and your family or friends to stay. Its exterior form has happily been retained, bearing clear witness to its original function, whilst inside a stained glass window is the central feature to the first floor living room. Other features of note include high ceilings, large windows, plenty of spacious accommodation and large mature gardens. The majority of the living space is to the ground floor. The open plan kitchen and dining area with sliding door opening to the rear garden was formerly the church hall. Five bedrooms have been stylishly designed, along with a contemporary bathroom and two additional shower rooms, whilst a cinema and games room will keep you busy on a rainy day. The extensive gardens of an acre comprise of a woodland driveway to the front. The enclosed rear garden has mature trees and shrubs, including a monkey puzzle tree, lawns and three patio seating areas. The summerhouse and patios are the ideal place for enjoying a morning coffee or evening drink while taking in the surrounding views and starlit sky.

The property is nestled in a very beautiful part of Scotland and offers many activities in short striking distance, including walking, cycling, golfing, fishing and the seaside. The property is just 3 miles from Mintlaw, home to Aden Country Park covering 230 acres. Recognised as one of Scotland’s top green spaces, the park is a popular spot for walkers, cyclists and families thanks to its picturesque surroundings and busy events calendar. Mintlaw hosts a wide variety of amenities including pub, takeaways and local supermarket.

8 miles to the east is Cruden Bay, which has a sweeping expanse of pink sands and dunes approximately 1½ miles in length. This sandy beach is popular with day trippers, water sports enthusiasts and for sea fishing. Here you can also visit the remains of Slains Castle, once a place where celebrities were entertained on numerous occasions in the 19th Century. One of the most notable guests was Bram Stoker and it is believed the castle is the inspiration for the setting of ’Count Dracula’. 14 miles south of Torreagles is Newburgh beach, home to a colony of around 400 seals, adjacent to which are Forvie Nature Reserve and Foveran Links, a site of special scientific interest.

Golfers will appreciate numerous challenging courses less than a half hour’s drive from the property, including three of Scotland’s top twenty championship courses, Cruden Bay Golf Club, Trump International Golf Links and Royal Aberdeen Golf Club. Whatever you decide to do during your stay, this is an ideal base to explore this lovely part of Scotland. Beach 8 miles.

Set in an enviable position right in the heart of Banchory and across the street from the golf course, West Lodge could not be better placed to enjoy all that this area has to offer. With river and hill walking paths less than a mile away and within walking distance to cafés, restaurants and local shops, there really is so much choice right on the doorstep.

West Lodge is a lovely two bedroom property set all on the ground floor. This property would be perfect for couples or a small family looking to enjoy the delights of the region. An open fire provides warmth throughout the house making it a cosy place to relax and unwind in after a long day of hill walking or fishing.

Less than a mile away you will find the Falls of Feugh. This popular attraction is a great place to watch the salmon jumping upstream. Afterwards, you could sample the local Scottish cuisine at the nearby restaurant. Banchory is also conveniently placed to enjoy the Castle Trail. Crathes Castle, with its stunning gardens is a short drive away. Here you will find the adventure course of Go Ape, sure to delight the daredevils in the family.

Drum Castle and the fantastic Dunnotar Castle are also within easy driving distance. Fishing is a very popular pastime in this area of Scotland as well, with many beats accessible nearby. From Banchory, you are less than 40 miles from Braemar and the stunning Balmoral Castle, summer residence of the Royal Family, another fantastic day out. The diverse city of Aberdeen is around a 30-minute drive from West Lodge, and offers a beach, fun fair, swimming pool, parks and gardens. West Lodge in Banchory really is a fantastic property in a wonderfully convenient location, perfect for all the family. Beach 16 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 550 yards.

This gorgeous cosy cottage has the best of both worlds – peace and quiet with a totally private and enclosed rear garden down a quiet lane, yet just a short walk to Ballater’s fine selection of shops and eateries. A perfect place for that restful holiday in total comfort, Logiemar Cottage has it all. With stylish touches throughout the cottage, the owners have thought of everything to make your stay as comfortable as possible. The eco-credentials are also very much in evidence without compromising on luxury, with a wood-fired hot tub (with bubbles and lights) and a biomass boiler and solar panels, so you will always be warm whatever the weather or time of year. In addition, the delightful living room features a wood burner to relax in front of with a glass of the local whisky or a soothing cup of tea. The bedrooms are decorated in calming colours and while the second bedroom is smaller with a ¾ bed, it is perfect for children or an adult to sleep in real comfort.
Surrounded by amazing scenery and situated on the banks of the salmon fishing River Dee to the west, it’s fascinating history and royal connections are renowned the world over. Being the nearest village to Balmoral Castle, members of the Royal Family are often here, which explains the many ‘By Royal Appointment’ signs that can be seen on local shops and business. For whisky lovers, a visit to the nearby Royal Lochnagar Distillery, which produces one of Scotland’s most exclusive whiskies, is highly recommended. For the energetically minded, there are plenty of opportunities for canoeing and mountain biking, as well as skiing at the Lecht and Glenshee during the winter months. Golfers have a good selection of courses in the area, most notably the local Ballater Golf Club, which is within walking distance of the cottage. An 18-hole golf course, it is situated in one of the most beautiful parts of the upper Deeside within a circle of hills, making a round here a true delight. If you like a bit of history and culture, you don’t have to travel far to the castles and gardens at Balmoral, Crathes and Craigievar – all are well worth a visit. With so much to do in this fabulous part of Scotland, be sure to book again to continue your adventures!
Restaurant and pub within ¼ mile. Scottish Letting Licence AS00079F.

Willow Lodge has been freshly decorated and modernised making it a wonderful base from which to explore Macduff and the surrounding area. With three bedrooms, it is best suited to couples or families or friends groups looking for a comfortable modern home to relax in after a day exploring. It benefits from an attractive and fully enclosed landscaped garden set on multiple levels, giving plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors.
Within a 5-minute drive of the beach, this detached bungalow also has a very convenient location in Macduff and is within walking distance of many local attractions. MacDuff enjoys stunning sea views and wonderful sunsets and the architecture reflects its maritime heritage. A restaurant serving fresh local dishes is only a short walk away. The Macduff Aquarium will delights guests of all ages, with a wonderful selection of creatures from the sea and beyond. Learn about the history of the area at the beautiful Duff House, enjoy viewing the art work or strolling through the grounds. The Macduff Distillery is also a great place to visit and situated about 1 mile from Willow Lodge.
The north-east coast of Scotland is a hidden gem, with its atmospheric fishing villages dotted along the coastline, making it a wonderful place for easy exploration. Travel along the beautiful coastline offering stunning cliff top views, or head west towards Portsoy Harbour, with the chance to discover the remains of Boyne Castle, or watch out for some dolphins at Moray Firth. Other popular attractions in the area include Fyvie Castle, a magnificent structure, housing antiques and heritage-rich exhibits, and Pitmedden Garden & Museum of Farming Life. This area is also home to some wonderful beaches, with many easily reachable. There really is something for everyone in this fascinating region of Scotland.
This fantastic area of Scotland is a haven for golfers with many courses near by, including Royal Tarlair, Duff House and Turriff. Walkers and cyclists will also enjoy the many walks available. Why not try a walk along the stunning coast, exploring the small bays and beaches along the way? Take in views of the Moray Firth and try a spot of dolphin watching. Fishing in the River Deveron is also a popular pastime here. Beach 1½ miles. Shop 200 yards, pub and restaurant 700 yards.

This charming stone cottage has been carefully and lovingly renovated from an original 1800’s bothy, right in the heart of the quaint fishing village of Johnshaven. Tastefully decorated to a very good standard, in keeping with the nautical charm of the village, the owners have taken every care to ensure you have a wonderful holiday.

In a fantastic location, the property is warm, comfortable and very well equipped with everything you need for an enjoyable stay. This includes modern appliances, complimentary Nespresso coffee, Scottish Fine Soap toiletries, fine linen and a supply of logs. Cosy up to the wood burner on cooler days or enjoy the sunshine in the quaint private courtyard at the side of the cottage. With garden seating, this little suntrap provides the perfect space for families and dogs to enjoy, and is an idyllic relaxation spot, particularly on summer evenings.

The harbour, pub, tearoom, convenience store, and Lobster Shop, are just a moments’ walk from the cottage. There is also a well-known pub/restaurant specialising in locally sourced seafood as well as offering a fantastic, varied menu of food and drink. There is a highly renowned tearoom, offering a generous selection of refreshments, pastries, and cakes, with an outstanding view of the harbour.

The village is also home to a giftshop specialising in local arts and crafts; and the Johnshaven Heritage Museum which is brimming with maritime history about the local area. As well as a beautiful coastal trail for walkers and cyclists, the area is also within distance of several golf courses, castles, distilleries, museums, hills, and facilities for water sports.

Within easy commuting distance to nearby villages, towns and further afield; there are roads, cycle paths and regular buses which all run in and out of the village daily. Inland, the Angus Glens are a mecca for walkers or for a more cosmopolitan day out, the cities of Aberdeen and Dundee, each with their own attractions, are within an easy drive. This really is a year-round destination and a cottage you will want to visit again!

Lovingly and painstakingly renovated with care and attention, Greve Cottage is a delightful place to spend some relaxing time away with family or friends. The interior is warm and welcoming, with a high-ceilinged living room with a wood burner, opening onto the enclosed garden. There is an open plan kitchen/dining area, utility room and bedroom with en-suite Jack and Jill bathroom on the ground floor. Whilst upstairs, two double bedrooms also share another Jack and Jill bathroom. This is ideal family accommodation in a peaceful environment. Boasting superb uninterrupted views over the Howe o’ the Mearns, the elevated position makes the most of the scenery and the enclosed garden is lovely to sit in and drink in the view. The owners have built an enclosed barbecue hut, allowing al fresco dining even on cooler days.
There is much on offer in the surrounding area, with gorgeous sandy beaches at St Cyrus and Montrose an easy drive away. Wildlife is here in abundance, with osprey, otters and many wading birds spotted at the mouth of the River Esk, leading to the sea. River fishing is available by arrangement on the North Esk, while, inland, there is excellent walking in the five Angus Glens, with routes for hillwalkers and ramblers alike. Greve Cottage is just 2½ miles from St Cyrus, 4 miles north of the bustling seaside town of Montrose and 30 miles south of Aberdeen. Dunnottar Castle, Glamis Castle, the House of Dun and Fettercairn Distillery are worth a visit or alternatively take the Cairn o’ Mount Road to Royal Deeside, which winds through glorious scenery.
Maximum occupancy 6 guests.

The Annexe at Shieldaig Cottage is situated just over a mile from the picturesque village and golden sands of St Cyrus. It is attached to the owner’s house and completely self-contained with stunning views over open countryside. An entrance porch leads through to the open plan living area, and French doors open onto the pretty patio - an ideal spot for alfresco dining or relaxing with a glass of wine. Adjoining the living area is a modern well-equipped kitchen. There is a very attractively presented kingsize bedroom with colour co-ordinated soft furnishings and a shower room all on the ground floor. The first floor has a further attractive king size bedroom and a second living room with views of the countryside to one side and the sea to the other. A utility room with washing matching and clothes airer is at the side and is a great place to store outdoor clothing.
The village of St Cyrus is located on the east coast of Scotland and is famous for its Nature Reserve, a haven for nature lovers, bird watchers and dog walkers. The village offers local amenities including a village shop and post office, a coffee shop and a hotel, pub and restaurant. A perfect base to explore the coastline, hills and glens which surround The Mearns, home of Lewis Grassic Gibbon, write of A Scots Quair. The Grassic Gibbon Centre is located in nearby Arbuthnot. There is no shortage of good walks within easy reach in and around the Angus Glens, Forfar and Kirriemuir areas.
Other nearby attractions include the towns of Montrose and Stonehaven. Montrose sits on the edge of a tidal lagoon known as the Basin. Just south of the town on the A92 you will find the Basin Wildlife Centre where a resident ranger leads guided walks around the reserve. Montrose is also home to several links golf courses. Stonehaven has a beautiful harbour from where you can take boat trips to experience the rugged coastline and bird life. Beach 2¼ miles. Pub 5 miles.

West Kilblean Cottage is set in the glorious Aberdeenshire countryside and is perfect for that rural break away. Beautifully renovated and decorated throughout the cottage is both inviting and comfortable. Set on a working farm close to Old Meldrum the rural views are just lovely. After a day exploring the area come back to West Kilblean Cottage and enjoy an evening in the garden taking in the peace and tranquillity or, on chillier nights, cosy up in front of the inviting wood burner. With its enviable location just 1½ miles from Old Meldrum where you will find all local amenities including a restaurant and pub, and also within close distance for exploring the many attractions in the area. Bennachie, the local ’mountain’ is just 10 miles from the cottage and offers wonderful walks and views of Aberdeenshire from the sea to the Cairngorms. Only 11 miles distant is the famous Seal Beach at Newburgh and the chance to spot some of the many seals is sure to delight everyone.
Slightly further afield you will find the wonderful sand dunes at Balmedie beach, stretching for over 14 miles, with many walks, a picnic area and a play park, providing a great day out. Inland is the lovely Pitmedden Garden, where you can spend time enjoying the woodland walks or learning about the local history in the Museum of Farming Life. Both Tolquhon Castle and Haddo House provide two great places to explore. Whether you prefer the coast or countryside, West Kilblean Cottage provides a fantastic base from which to explore this dynamic area of north east Scotland. Beach 11 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1½ miles.
West Kilblean Cottage can be booked together with East Kilblean Cottage to accommodate up to 6 guests.

A romantic ‘castle’ in the heart of the Cairngorms; grandeur and cosy are hard to find together but Craigendarroch House combines the two with ease. In truth, a traditional Scottish baronial Villa modelled on Balmoral Castle, Craigandarroch House with turrets and tower was designed by the architect William Smith who also designed Balmoral, a short drive up along Royal Deeside. You’ll find Craigendarroch House traditionally and stylishly decorated with all the convenience of contemporary living for a comfortable family holiday. Every attention to detail has been made, with comfortable seating and dining in the delightful garden, luxury bed linen and towels and even indoor and outdoor bars. From the moment you come through the gates up the sweeping driveway you’ll appreciate the traditional Scottish architecture with the stunning backdrop of Craigendarroch Hill behind the house. Any sprightly visitors must make the effort to walk up and admire the views from the top – a strenuous but short (30-minute) climb.
Whilst the house has all the convenience of being central to the delightful and busy town of Ballater, it also provides total privacy inside and out. Ballater and the surrounding area has a wealth of restaurants and coffee shops, some within easy walking distance, with the benefit of having the Highlands right on your doorstop for exploring further.
The house is exceptionally well maintained, with six large bedrooms, two with en-suite bathrooms and three further family bathrooms, all with modern fittings and tastefully decorated. Full central heating throughout is extremely efficient – you will be lovely and cosy in winter and there is an open fire in drawing room. The home benefits from large rooms for all the family, but there are smaller rooms for a quiet game of chess or reading in the snug or conservatory. Overlooking the front garden, the drawing room is large and sunny with seating for whole family, ideal for relaxed entertaining with its large fireplace. There is also a formal oak panelled dining room with wall-to-wall books. There is an indoor bar with TV and wine/beer fridges, perfect for having a wee dram while watching Scotland win the rugby!
There is certainly plenty to explore in the stunning surrounding countryside with the glorious river and mountain landscape of Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, leisurely walks can be enjoyed along the banks of the river while the adventurous can tackle the region’s famous mountains. There are good opportunities for canoeing and mountain biking, as well as skiing at the Lecht and Glenshee Centres during the winter months. Golf is available in Ballater itself, as well as Braemar and Banchory. There are castles and gardens at Balmoral, Crathes and Craigievar which are all well worth a visit.
Slightly further afield, the coastal and whisky trails offer the chance to explore the area’s heritage through stunning scenery. In August and September, Highland games are prevalent in all the towns and villages throughout the region. Shop ¼ mile, pub and restaurant ½ mile.