Dog Friendly Holidays Argyll and Bute

This beautifully renovated and extended cottage enjoys an idyllic, rural location just a hundred yards or so from the crystal clear waters of the Lyne of Lorne, and has wonderful sea views. Located at the head of Airds Bay at the end of a private track approximately 1 mile long, Cliff Cottage stands detached and makes a wonderful retreat from which to explore this scenic area and to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the countryside.
An easy walk away is the pretty fishing village of Port Appin, which overlooks Loch Linnhe with its several islands and backdrop of mountains. From here ferries to the Isle of Lismore can be taken, where several places of interest can be visited. Apart from the fortified Tirefour Broch, there are the ruins of the 12th-century Castle Coeffin and the abandoned quarry village of Sailean with its disused kilns, as well as the ruins of Achanduin Castle and the island’s highest point Barr Mor. To the north of Port Appin, the romantic Castle Stalker can be found - much loved by photographers. Appin is a destination for food-lovers with several very highly rated restaurants in the immediate area.
Within easy reach, the Victorian resort of Oban is the second largest town in Argyll. It has the McCaig’s Folly as its landmark, which was built in imitation of Rome’s Colosseum. A tour of the Oban Distillery is a popular experience for whisky lovers whilst boat trips to Mull, Iona, Staffa, Seal Island and the Treshnish Isles can be made from the harbour at Oban. A short ferry ride from Oban takes visitors to the Isle of Kerrera - a small easily explored island from where panoramic views of Mull, the Slate Islands, Lismore and beyond can be admired.
In the opposite direction lies Fort William, with Ben Nevis - Britain’s highest summit - rising up in the background. One of the Highland’s most impressive glens, Glen Nevis, can be found just a further 10-minute drive away and apart from being the starting point for the ascent of Scotland’s highest peak, has been the location for several films, including Rob Roy and Braveheart.
The area is superb for walking, fishing and boat trips, which are all close by, whilst further afield are the fabulous mountains of Glencoe (with skiing in winter). Shop ⅓ mile. Pub ½ mile.

"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.

Rosmuire is a fully detached, secluded and spacious four bedroom house located on a quiet farm road with its own grounds, including garden, woods and fields of over 3 acres. This house lies a mile from the Loch Lomond National Park, and from a beautiful hillside position it enjoys sea views over the Gare Loch and the rugged hills of the Argyll Forest Park to the west. Rosmuire provides an excellent base to explore the natural beauty of the west of Scotland, as well as easy access by train or car to Glasgow, Stirling or Edinburgh.
The cottage is bright, spacious and warm, and is furnished with distinctive charm as a home from home, with stunning views over the loch and hills. Its tranquil surroundings include a large landscaped garden with a large south-facing area of decking directly off the kitchen; enjoy eating alfresco or relaxing outside, perfect for watching the sun set on the hills behind the loch. There is a fully enclosed garden area and grounds of 3 acres with streams, fields, and woodland, which is perfect for children and dogs to explore. Pets are especially welcome without charge and there are excellent dog-friendly walks straight from the cottage door. There is also a garage/games room with table football and a badminton court with racquets provided; the driveway has parking for six cars.
The area offers a wide range of areas of interest and activities for all ages. The seaside town of Helensburgh is a short 10-minute drive away with restaurants, gift shops, supermarkets, a swimming pool, and a small boutique cinema. There are various boat trips available including the Waverly vintage paddle steamer from Helensburgh pier as well as boat or seaplane trips from nearby Loch Lomond.
There are excellent outdoor activities including walking, cycling, fishing, horse riding and pony trekking, and water sports nearby. Walk a stretch of the famous West Highland Way or cycle through the dramatic scenery of nearby Glen Fruin, the site of a clan battle in 1603, or explore some of Scotland’s most picturesque areas. There are numerous hill and mountain walks, with about 20 hills above 3000ft, as well as winter skiing and mountain biking at the Glencoe Mountain Resort all within an hour’s drive.
The cottage has good access to a wide range of places of interest, with direct train or car to Glasgow and Edinburgh, which offer theatres, restaurants, festivals and shopping. There is also easy access to many golf courses including the Loch Lomond championship course. The Loch Lomond Shores centre offers shopping, restaurants and cafés, and loch cruises and a sea life aquarium and are about 15 minutes away. There are various nearby distilleries which offer tours, including the famous Glengoyne Distillery. Shop, pub and restaurant 1½ miles.

This spacious detached holiday cottage is situated in one of the most scenic areas of Southern Argyll by the famous ’Bridge over the Atlantic’. Boasting superb uninterrupted sea views and access to the beach across a small field to the rear of the property, it is tastefully furnished, and offers excellent holiday accommodation for families and larger parties. The picturesque conservation village of Ellenabeich with its small ferry to the slate island of Easdale is just a short drive. Here visitors can learn about the history of the area at the museum. The ferry to Luing is a similar distance. Oban is just 12 miles, offering many shops and restaurants. It also houses a distillery with regular tours and tasting sessions of the fine malts. Other islands are easily accessible from Oban, with regular ferry trips available.
Golfing, fishing, sea trips, walking and cycling are all available locally, with many historical attractions including McCaigs Tower and the 13th century Dunstaffnage Castle at Dunbeg worth a visit. Shops and pubs 1 mile.

In an elevated position with panoramic views across Loch Fyne, this detached holiday home is ideal for those wishing to explore the west coast of Argyll. The idyllic village of Tarbert has a bustling harbour where you can sit and watch the boats coming and going, enjoy the cafés and bars and visit the local art galleries. Tarbert hosts several popular seafood and music festivals throughout the year and is home to the Scottish Series Yacht Race. From the harbour you can catch one of the regular ferry crossings to Portavadie and explore the Cowal Peninsula. The beautiful islands of Arran, Islay, Gigha and Jura are also easily accessible from nearby ferry ports. Head south for the Mull of Kintyre with white sandy beaches and magnificent golf courses, or north to Kilmichael Glen steeped in history and archeological sites. Campbeltown Distillery, and Inveraray Jail and Castle also make for great days out. There is an abundance of wildlife and a variety of outdoor activities including sailing, sea fishing, cycling, walking and windsurfing. For the less adventurous, the garden at Devania Croft is the perfect place to sit and unwind, whilst taking in the stunning views. Beach 3 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

This spacious house is ideally set on the waterfront in Kames, Tighnabruaich on Argyll’s Secret Coast. Boasting stunning views over the Kyles of Bute, this property is only 20 yards from the waterfront. Ideal for a family or group of friends looking to relax and enjoy this special place. The location, and the views over the Kyles of Bute are simply magnificent. Nearby is the main street of Tighnabruaich where you will find local arts and crafts, cafés and welcoming pubs
Argyll’s Secret Coast boasts isolated beaches, pretty villages, delightful fishing ports and some great local dining in pubs or the celebrated Botanica or Inver restaurants. Popular tourist attractions include the spectacular Portavadie Marina, Mount Stuart, Inverary Castle, the towering trees of Ardkinglass, Benmore Botanical Gardens and seasonal visits to Rothesay and Tighnabruaich from the world’s only ocean-going paddle steamer, ‘The Waverley’. The Isles of Bute, Arran, Jura and Islay are all easily reached by ferry. Beautiful sandy beach 1 mile. Pub 1 mile.

Perfectly located for easy access to Loch Lomond National Park and west coast of Scotland you can steep yourself in history as you enjoy the character and ambiance of the fabulously presented holiday accommodation in The Old Wing at Drumhead House, Cardross.

The 18th-century Old Wing was built on the site of a fortified towerhouse and may have been the home of Robert The Bruce, King of Scotland in the 14th century. The surrounding gardens and woodlands ensure peace and tranquillity. There’s a wild paddock where the owners keep free range chickens and bees, and a pretty burn runs through the land. The spacious accommodation is over three floors, and the character of the Tower House runs through its entirety with a wide stair to the first floor. The living room on the first floor has views over the garden and an open fire to create a cosy atmosphere on a winter’s evening for sitting and relaxing after a day out exploring this part of Scotland. The owners will set the open fire ready for your arrival, and provide all you might need including a pint of milk from the local dairy, butter, tea and locally roasted coffee beans, fresh free range eggs (when available) from their rare breed hens, salt and pepper, handwash and shower gel, and under the sink supplies - as well as a welcome gift of a bottle of champagne.

The Old Wing is perfectly located for easy access to the great outdoor attractions of the west coast of Scotland and Loch Lomond National Park, and for city visits to both Glasgow and Edinburgh. Locally the Gare Loch has walking trails with The John Muir long distance trail close to the house and providing a walk with beautiful views of Loch Lomond and Ben Lomond beyond - as well as a walking route over to the loch for the fit and hardy. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is just a short drive away with open spaces, sheltered bays and islands to explore. Its inland waters are famous as one of the finest water sports venues in Scotland. The area is ideal for walkers and cyclists of all abilities and boasts a magnificent diversity of scenery with dramatic peaks, waterfalls, hidden caves and mysterious, forest-covered slopes. There are some great wild swimming spots and a vast choice of lochs and waterways locally to choose from.

Guests at The Old Wing can take advantage of exclusive offers with 4x4 Adventures and luxury Loch Lomond day cruises. There’s also fishing, clay pigeon shooting, hill walking and cycling along with birdwatching, beaches, spa treatments and golf among the many activities available nearby. The village of Cardross has good local facilities and a mini supermarket. Cardross Golf Course is an excellent 18-hole, parkland course with spectacular views over the River Clyde. Helensburgh is just a 15-minute drive and has a good range of eateries, supermarkets, cinema and a swimming pool and sports centre. There are several great restaurants locally including a Michelin starred restaurant on Loch Lomond. The choice of activities and days out are too many to mention but it is well worth taking the time to visit Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s Hill House along with the beautiful walled gardens in the area, such as those found at Geilston House. Beach 1 mile.

A beautiful detached cottage overlooking Loch Linnhe on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Port Appin, Ardtur Croft enjoys complete privacy set in its own enclosed garden accessed via a private driveway. There are magnificent views from the cottage over surrounding farmland and the sea, towards the Island of Lismore and beyond to the Morven Peninsula. A comfortable and spacious cottage, you will find yourselves gathering in the bright open-plan kitchen/diner, chatting round the kitchen table or on the comfy seating in front of the cosy wood burner, enjoying the views to the sea over the field. Port Appin is also home to two of Scotland’s most prestigious eating places, so you can walk along, sample local seafood and a drink without taking the car. There’s a licensed community run store and gift shop in the village too. Within a few miles of the cottage, there is an excellent choice of cafes and inns, all offering breath-taking views and delicious local food a renowned garden centre and a garage. A short ten minute walk down the road is Aird’s Bay, a horseshoe shape and peaceful shore being shallow some way out so ideal for safe swimming. There is much to attract the historian in the region as the mysterious events surrounding The Red Fox, immortalised by Robert Louis Stevenson took place in this locale so you can explore some of the locations in Kidnapped. The hillwalking and mountaineering opportunities in the area are spectacular with Glencoe within easy reach and numerous opportunities to climb a Munro for those who are ambitious. There are gentler walks round the coast or inland, including a walk out to stunning and historic Castle Stalker at low tide. You can hire bikes locally and explore the area via the cycle path which runs from Oban to Fort William passing through Appin. Despite its tranquillity, Port Appin is conveniently located. Beach 1 mile.