Dog-Friendly Scottish Highlands

Welcome to Middledrift Cottage, nestled in the picturesque Highlands village of Brora. This charming holiday retreat offers an idyllic escape for those seeking a perfect blend of tranquillity and adventure. Brora, situated on the northeast coast of Scotland, is a hidden gem with a rich tapestry of natural beauty and cultural experiences waiting to be explored.
For nature enthusiasts, Brora boasts pristine beaches that stretch for miles, offering a serene backdrop for leisurely strolls or invigorating seaside runs. Embrace the crisp Highland air as you wander along the golden sands of Brora Beach, taking in panoramic views of the North Sea and the stunning Sutherland countryside. Wildlife enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, as the region is home to diverse bird species and marine life. Golf enthusiasts will be delighted to discover the renowned Brora Golf Club, where a challenging links course awaits against the breathtaking coastal backdrop. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a novice, the course offers an unforgettable experience for players of all levels.
History comes to life in Brora, with attractions like the Clynelish Distillery, where you can embark on a journey through the production of world-class Scotch whisky. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the area by exploring the Brora Heritage Centre, which offers a fascinating insight into the local history, from the Bronze Age to the present day. Outdoor adventurers can take advantage of the nearby hiking trails that wind through the rugged landscapes of the Highlands. From easy walks suitable for families to challenging hikes for seasoned trekkers, there’s a route for every level of explorer.
Indulge in the warmth of Highland hospitality as you explore the local shops and eateries, savouring traditional Scottish fare and unique artisanal finds. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or excitement, Middledrift Cottage in Brora sets the stage for an unforgettable holiday in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Big Barns Cottage forms part of a separate wing of an historic B-listed Arts and Crafts house. It is one of the original buildings on the Sutherland Estate, built for the Duke of Sutherland, whose family’s seat is Dunrobin Castle. This early 18th century crow-stepped barn was converted by the renowned architect George Devey in the 19th century. He remodelled it on the Cotswold vernacular; his aim was to convey the impression of a large country house without losing the impression of an original 18th century barn. Its historic and characterful architecture is completely unique and a joy to behold.
The cottage has its own separate entrance and front door. The solid wood door opens into a charming living room with a welcoming wood burner and original flag stone flooring. The furnishing, including many antiques, have been chosen to suit the period. There is a separate dining room, with antique furniture, in-keeping with the original building. The kitchen is small but very well-equipped. Stairs lead up to two pretty bedrooms, one with a double bed and the second with twin beds. Both enjoy views across the beautiful gardens to the sea beyond. Set in two acres of private, mature gardens, which include a large variety of rare plants and enclosed woodland, the cottage has its own separate and secluded garden area, surrounded by flowering plants, with lawn and outdoor dining table and chairs.
Native deer are often seen around Big Barns Cottage and seals swimming close to shore can be admired from the local beach, which is just a short walk away. Situated one mile away from the main road, down an unmade estate track, there are numerous forest walks, cycling routes and a wide variety of wildlife to discover direct from the cottage. There are breathtaking views across the Dornoch Firth to the far distant peaks of the Cairngorms.
Big Barns Cottage offers total peace and seclusion, yet is ideally located for exploring the best of the Highlands. Just a mile away is the renowned North Coast 500 route, which encompasses some of the most incredible and inspiring landscapes to be found anywhere in the British Isles. There is plenty to explore close at hand or further afield, including local distilleries, golf courses, fishing, kayaking, sailing, hill-walking and mountain biking. A visit to Dunrobin Castle is a must, with its fairy tale turrets and its gardens modelled on Versailles. The nearby villages of Golspie and Brora, both within 10 minutes’ drive, provide a good selection of local amenities, including pubs, restaurants, supermarkets, cafés and small shops. This totally unique historic cottage provides warm and welcoming accommodation in a truly superb setting. Beach 1 mile. Shop, pub and resturant 1½ miles.

Sunrise is a beautifully presented, detached cottage, situated in a stunning location and sitting right on the road of the NC500 route which is one of the top 10 scenic routes in the world. This bright cottage, set in 1½ acre grounds, enjoys commanding views across the sea with the Highland hills beyond. Situated off a small no-through lane, on a hillside, the property offers peace and seclusion, yet is within close proximity to all amenities.
This single-storey property offers a large, well-equipped kitchen/dining room with a large fridge/freezer and a spacious living room with a Swedish wood burner and high picture windows, looking out across the bay to the hills. The large hall boasts a table tennis table, perfect for spending some quality time with family. The double bedroom has its own en-suite, an electric blanket, a pure wool duvet or traditional goose down duvet, and mini toiletries on arrival. For dogs, a welcome tray and dog towels are provided. The garden extends over an acre, and there are some steep banks within the grounds, but it provides the perfect place for letting man’s best friend burn off energy.
Sunrise is situated in the small hamlet of Navidale, with the charming coastal fishing village of Helmsdale just over a mile away. Fishermen can be seen fishing for lobster, crabs and clams along the coast, and visitors can often purchase fresh local shellfish direct from the boats. There are miles of shoreline walks close by, and fossils are regularly found along this particular stretch of coast. Helmsdale has a good selection of restaurants and small shops, as well as a fascinating museum detailing the unusual history of the area, including the 19th century gold rush. There is also a 9-hole golf course in the village and the renowned course of Brora is just 10 minutes’ drive away. Travel north to visit the Castle of Mey, John O’Groats and even the Orkney Isles. Try panning for gold in the Helmsdale river and visit the fairytale castle of Dunrobin. Beach ¼ mile. Shop and restaurant 1½ miles, pub 1 mile.

Otago Cottage is a traditional two-bedroom cottage ideal for a family weekend away in the Scottish Highlands. The downstairs features a modern country-style kitchen/dining room, living room, shower room and a handy utility and boot room. Upstairs there is an en-suite master bedroom and a double bedroom. The property also has a large, enclosed, south and west-facing garden, that is laid to grass with mature hedging.
The village of Brora is a stunning seaside village with beautiful beaches on either side of the mouth of the Brora River. There is a range of local shops to browse and plenty of food and drink options. Brora is full of history; find out why the nickname is ‘The Electric City’ at the Brora Heritage Centre. Brora Golf Course is a must-go for avid golfers. If you prefer to watch, head to the clubhouse for a coffee or a pint and take in the astounding sea views, and don’t forget to visit the Clynelish Distillery to warm up with a whisky tasting. Beach 1 mile.

A self-contained one-bedroom house, designed as self-catering accommodation within Anvil House, a listed building with quaint and quirky features. It has one spacious double bedroom, a living room, a kitchen and a bathroom. The kitchen has a cooker, fridge and washing machine, while the living room boasts a cosy wood burner and TV.
Golspie village is on the east coast of Sutherland and offers an award-winning beach, eighteen-hole golf course, swimming pool, and railway station, and sits on the NC500 route, along with the A9 bus route.
There are lots of outdoor activities right on the doorstep, including a top-class mountain biking trail suitable for all levels, the Sutherland Kart Track and Little Ferry Nature Reserve. Golspie is also renowned for its walking routes, with Balblair woods, the Big Burn, Ben Bhraggie and many more. If you venture up the Ben, you’ll find the monument of the Duke of Sutherland at the top and stunning views across Sutherland and to the North Sea.
Dunrobin Castle is found just north of Golspie and is one of Scotland’s must-see castles. Additionally, it is only a 15-minute drive south to the historic town of Dornoch and the Royal Dornoch Golf Course.
Golspie has all the local amenities that you could want from a small, community village.

Ardlearag is an outstanding architecturally-designed and timber-clad holiday home in the North West Scotland. Overlooking the sea loch Little Loch Broom, Ardlearag also has views of the isolated Scoraig peninsula and wee mountain Beinn Ghobhlach across the loch, and to the east An Teallach, a fabulous Munro, is in view and only a few miles away. Staying at Ardlearag is like striking gold. Pulling up at the stunning property you won’t believe your luck. Any length of time booked is guaranteed to be too short.

The property nestles into the landscape right beside the water and is surrounded by mountains. The area around Ardlearag is known as the ‘great wilderness’ and staying at the property makes it easy to see why. The front of the house looks towards the water and mountains -quite rightly - so you enter through the back door. On the left there’s a well-placed utility room, perfect for cleaning up after long days out exploring in the wilds. Quickly you discover the wow factor of the house, which is the vast amount of glass in the open plan living/dining/kitchen area. Views up the loch and across the water are truly sensational. It’s an amazing room making the most of the surroundings, and it’s finished to a fantastic high standard (like the whole house). To return to this room after days out on adventures is pure bliss.

Beyond the house the great wilderness awaits. An Teallach is a fantastic Munro and with it being so close it deserves an attempt or two during your holiday. Ullapool and Assynt beyond are not far away, and to the south the coastal villages of Aultbea, Poolewe and Gairloch with numerous sandy beaches to choose from await. Staying at Ardlearag is a superb choice for the most amazing of Highland holidays. Book now and forever be happy with your choice!

Situated on its own, right on the shoreline, enjoying panoramic views of the seascape this unique detached house offers an exceptionally good standard of holiday accommodation throughout. The living room and large kitchen/dining room look out across the bay. A second living room upstairs is built in the form of an ’observatory’, complete with balcony from which to spot the wide variety of bird and sea-life. Miles of shoreline walks are accessed directly from the property. The unspoilt fishing village of Helmsdale has a harbour and restaurants and shops. The area is renowned for its unspoilt beaches, wild and rugged coastline and traditional villages. Fossils are regularly found along this particular stretch of coast. Travel north to visit the Castle of Mey, John O’ Groats and the Orkney Isles. Golf, fishing, cycling, hill-walking, surfing and pony trekking all available locally. Try panning for gold in the Helmsdale river and visit the fairytale castle of Dunrobin. Shops, pub and restaurant 500 yards.

This charming former fisherman’s cottage, with enclosed garden, is set in the heart of Fishertown which forms part of the lively town of Nairn. Located on the Moray Coast, Nairn boasts a sandy beach which is just a few minutes’ walk from the holiday cottage. A toy cupboard provides amusement at the cottage. Seashell Cottage is ideally situated to enjoy the variety of facilities the town has to offer including a links golf course, fishing and boat trips to see the bottlenose dolphins. Cawdor and Brodie Castle are nearby along with numerous distilleries - take the Whisky Trail on Speyside. Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield and Inverness, the Highland capital are all within a short drive. Shop, pub and restaurant 500 yards.

Enjoying a peaceful yet central setting within the pretty village of Auldearn, this semi-detached, traditional holiday property has been furnished and equipped to a good standard to ensure as comfortable and relaxing holiday as possible. Just three miles from the seaside village of Nairn with its long sweeping sandy beaches and local amenities, Tigh Na Bruiach (Gaelic for ‘House on the Hill’) makes a super holiday base for exploring this wonderful part of the Northern Highlands. Visit Culloden Battlefield, Fort George, Inverness, and Loch Ness, all within a very easy drive. Brodie and Cawdor Castles are just a short distance and well worth a visit. You can meander along the Moray Coast and visit some of the beautiful, unspoilt beaches and hopefully catch sight of the dolphins, seals and large variety of birdlife this area is renowned for. Take a trip along the Malt Whisky Trail – the only one of its kind in the world! Further afield, go to the scenic West Coast, Fort William or the enigmatic Orkney Islands. Golf, mountain biking, kayaking, hill walking and photography are some of the many activities available.

Set in a quiet rural location, this cosy holiday cottage enjoys lovely views across open countryside towards Nigg Bay and the Cromarty Firth. An RSPB Reserve, sea trips, fishing, golf, castles and south, west and east facing beaches all within easy reach. Great for touring the scenic Highlands. Historic Cromarty is a short ferry trip (only available in summer, also accessible by road) with Inverness, the Highland Capital approx 45 minutes’ drive. Shops 4½ miles, pubs 3 miles. Can be booked with property 19987 (which has adjoining garden) to sleep up to 12 guests.