Dog-Friendly Scottish Highlands

Not far from Inverness, tucked away up beautiful Strathnairn is the lovely cottage for two Farr Out. Set on the Farr Estate with amazing Highland scenery all around, it’s a great place to base yourself for exploring near and far. Recently refurbished in 2022, Farr Out offers a high standard of holiday accommodation. Entering through the front door into the hallway there is an open plan living/kitchen/dining area to the left and the double bedroom and bathroom off to the right. The open plan living space is spacious for two people and has everything you would want when back from days out exploring the local area. The bedroom is very comfortable and the bathroom has a large shower. Outside of the property there is a patio with garden furniture, and only a few yards away there are some unusual but inquisitive neighbours, a group of llamas.
Farr Out is tucked away in a converted old steading on the Farr Estate and is set in a lovely rural location. It feels a million miles away from the hustle and bustle that most of us are used to. However, it’s only 20 minutes out of charming Inverness, so in a way you have the best of both worlds staying at Farr Out, country and city living, in one holiday. Another advantage of being close to Inverness is that you’re near to famous touring routes like the North Coast 500 which starts and finishes in the city. However, if you don’t want to venture too far you don’t have to because there’s so much to see and do close by. You can cycle, hike and fish from the cottage on the estate. There are routes up onto the estate moors that you’re welcome to explore. Loch Farr which is situated on the estate is available for fly fishing free of charge (rowing boats are provided for fishing). The road that runs through Farr is a celebrated route to Fort Augustus, and it has been rated as one of the most scenic in Scotland. It was used in the iconic film ’Local Hero’ as well and there are many minor roads off it that journey down to the south side of Loch Ness, which is surprisingly close to Farr Out, another amazing benefit to staying at this lovely property.

The cottage location is the epitome of the Highlands. Just out of the hamlet of Culrain where there’s a castle, Lower Hilton Cottage is surrounded by woodland and has clear views to rugged hills and the Kyle of Sutherland, a river estuary that feeds into the Dornoch Firth. It’s an incredibly quiet location, with wildlife all around, and has that elusive undiscovered feel that everybody wants in the Highlands. If you want an outstanding Scottish Highlands retreat surrounded by nature, then Lower Hilton Cottage is the place for you.

Entering the cottage at the back door, which is most convenient, you’re met with a great dining space with rooms off in all directions. There’s a stunning double bedroom, spacious yet cosy living room with roaring wood burner and views out to hills and the estuary, the family bathroom and lovely, characterful kitchen. The stairs up from the dining space lead to two great bedrooms. Views out of the double-aspect bedrooms are outstanding. Outside there’s an unfenced mature garden that is mostly laid to lawn. There’s space to sit out and soak up whatever the Scottish weather has to offer.

From the cottage there are many fantastic hiking, mountain biking and road cycling routes to enjoy, and you’ll have the places all to yourself, unlike many other parts of Scotland. The area around Lower Hilton Cottage is authentic Highlands. There’s world-class salmon fishing on local rivers (permits available for very reasonable rates) and the links golf courses nearby are also world famous, most notably Royal Dornoch but the James Braid courses of Golspie and Brora are gems that any golfer will enjoy. Beyond the hamlet of Culrain and Carbisdale Castle, which is the most recent castle built in Scotland in 1905, the village of Ardgay is only ten minutes down the road. Here you’ll find a small, useful shop. Across the Kyle of Sutherland only fifteen minutes from the cottage you will find more services, including a butcher and bar/restaurant.

Lovely Dornoch is only a twenty five-minute drive, and Tain where you’ll find the Glenmorangie Distillery is about the same. Both places are well worth exploring during your stay, with Dornoch likely to be a highlight of your holiday. You have the NC500 easily accessible to the east near Dornoch and Tain, but you can also drive the interior roads via Lairg (crossroads of the Highlands) to reach the north and west coasts -again joining up with the NC500- very easily. The cottage is an excellent base for those adventurers amongst you. Lower Hilton Cottage offers one of the best interiors you’ll find in a holiday home. The minimalist, white, Scandi design is simply perfect. It’s so good in fact, you may shy away from heading out to explore the surroundings at all!

Borlum House Farm in Reay on the far north coast of Scotland is a brilliant location to be based for a memorable short break or longer holiday. The restored early 18th century farmhouse and buildings are surrounded by highland cows, lambs and chickens. The Annex is a converted barn attached to the farmhouse that was originally maid quarters.
The farm was originally part of the Sandside Estate which was owned at one time by Mr Pilkington of Pilkington Glass. Records date back to 1729 and it is known that the farm was a sheep farm with dairy for cheese-making. Situated in an enviable spot up the hill from Reay and overlooking the magnificent north coast of Scotland right out to sea, arriving at The Annex you’ll be delighted with the location you’ve picked for your holiday.
Just off the NC500 that goes through Reay, Borlum House Farm is perfectly placed as a base to explore the far north coast. As well as Sandside Bay Beach with Fresgoe Harbour, just down from Reay, and Reay’s fantastic links golf course, there’s so much to see and do that the NC500 touring route will help you reach.
Other amazing beaches nearby include Melvich and Strathy, which are loved by surfers. Historic Thurso is nearby and so too is the ferry port for trips over to Orkney, a great day-trip from Borlum House Farm. Beyond Thurso you must visit Dunnet Head, the Castle of Mey, John O’Groats and Duncansby Stacks. To be honest, the list of amazing places to see goes on and on, and alas we can’t feature all here. But be certain that there’s so much to do during your stay at Borlum House Farm.
The accommodations are finished to a high standard. Both cottages include a kingsize double bedroom with en-suite double shower cubicle. Highland Soap products and lovely bathrobes are provided. The open-plan living/dining/kitchen space is great, complete with Smart TV and woodburning stove. Outside each property there is a private and enclosed garden as well the freedom to explore the grounds of the farm and meet the animals. There’s also a firepit and BBQ Grill shared with each cottage at the farm. Beach 1½ miles. Pub and restaurant 6 miles.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 4 guests.

Stag’s Hide is the perfect year-round base to explore the beautiful Highlands surroundings and reconnect with nature. Surrounded by woodland and grazing pasture, your neighbours are likely to be the pheasants, squirrels or deer. And after the initial astonishment and wonder of your first sighting, by the end of your stay you’ll be so used to seeing the majestic deer frolicking nearby.
Dating back to 1909 when it was built for the gamekeeper of the Kinrara Estate, Stag’s Hide now combines the very best of old and new. The interior reflects a simple Scandi style, with plenty of wood and natural textiles, creating a calming environment in keeping with a slower pace of life. Indoors you can put your feet up and relax in the warm glow of the Squirrel log burner that’s at the heart of the open plan living, dining and kitchen area. The traditional log burner gives the room a cosy, timeless feel. It’s also great for drying out your boots. The ‘old’ is perfectly complemented by the ‘new’, with state of the art Sonos speakers, a Smart TV and a stylish, modern fitted kitchen. Although compact, the cottage offers everything a family or small group could need.
There are two luxury double bedrooms, both with king-size beds. Actually one of the beds is a super-king which can be separated into twin beds, depending on the needs of your group. Both bedrooms have double aspect windows and Smart TVs, a contemporary wet room with rainfall shower and a heated storage cupboard for any outdoor clothing. You may choose to digitally detox during your stay. But if you do need to stay connected, the cottage comes fully equipped with Smart TVs and free Wi-Fi. A more traditional detox may prove trickier!
The Kinrara distillery is only a short walk away and there’s a choice of local breweries and distilleries, all within a few minutes drive. It doesn’t matter when you visit, Stag’s Hide will be the perfect base for your trip. In winter you can see the Cairngorm ski runs from the door, with the Mountain Centre lifts only a short drive away. In spring and summer, there’s plenty to explore, with the centre of Aviemore a brisk 20-minute walk away. Keen cyclists will do it in 8…
There are plenty of walks for all ages and all abilities. General Wade’s Old Military Trail runs past the cottage and there’s a pleasant 20-minute walk to the shores of picturesque Loch Alvie. The more daring in your group may choose to hurtle through the pine forest on a zipwire at the nearby Zip Trek Adventure Park!! Whatever you choose to do, Stag’s Hide is the ideal base to explore this stunning part of Scotland. Whether you visit in the spring, summer, autumn or winter, the cottage has everything you need to create memories.

Hazelgrove is a characterful holiday home on the south side of Loch Ness in the small village of Inverfarigaig near Foyers. It’s perched in a spectacular spot with views out over the Loch. Hazelgrove is a magical place to spend a week or two with the entire family. The south side of Loch Ness is arguably the more attractive and certainly much quieter. Along General Wade’s 18th century military road from Inverness you will reach the dramatic little village of Inverfarigaig. The rushing waters of the River Farigaig run through the village and there are numerous trails heading off to explore the surrounding forests and lochs. The South Loch Ness Trail is worth exploring and so too is The Trail of the 7 Lochs, both easily accessible from Inverfarigaig.
Beyond the River Farigaig you soon see Hazelgrove’s sign on the left. The cottage is perched up on the left but within a short stroll of the loch side. Walking up to the timber clad Hazelgrove through mature enclosed gardens you’ll be chuffed with your decision to pick this property for your holiday. You rise up to the cottage’s veranda and Loch Ness dominates the view – it’s spectacular! The rocking chair on the veranda is a nice touch as sitting in this spot is truly good for the soul. Into the property and the vestibule leads into the open-plan living/dining space which makes the most of the view of Loch Ness. There’s an incredible stone fireplace framing the woodburning stove. The kitchen is beyond this space and is well-equipped, including an Aga in addition to an electric oven and hob. Out to the back of Hazelgrove next to the kitchen is a utility room with a washing machine, overhead clothes airer and ironing facilities, and a boot room with access to the wrap-around garden. On the other side of the house are the three bedrooms, two doubles and a single, as well as the family bathroom. All views from the bedrooms are of the garden and surrounding forest making them perfect places to rest and recharge. The outside of Hazelgrove is special. Nestled beneath the trees of the Farigaig forest where red squirrels and pine martens can be spotted, the mature garden is fully enclosed for dogs to run around at will. There’s an even better view from the top of the plot to the rear of the property. There’s a patio with garden furniture for visitors to sit out late in the evening to watch the sunset over Loch Ness. It’s a very special place to spend time.
Hazelgrove is also an excellent base from which to explore the Highlands. Foyers is a great village a short way away with a amazing waterfalls and places to eat and drink. Beyond Foyers the south side of Loch Ness with its network of lanes and trails is brilliant to explore. Fort Augustus isn’t far away and Fort William beyond isn’t a long drive. Inverness is less than thirty minutes drive away, so you’re well connected at Hazelgrove. You can get to Ben Nevis, the Isle of Skye, the Black Isle and the Cairngorms National Park easily from Hazelgrove, but many people will simply want to just stay put by the Loch and enjoy keeping an eye out for Nessie!

This charming three-bedroom bungalow is a refurbished family croft house, and the perfect base for active families or groups of friends to relax after a busy day out and about.
As you enter through the porch, you arrive firstly into the large kitchen area which comes fully equipped with everything you’d need during your stay. There is a dining table for everyone to enjoy their meals together, and enjoy the beautiful views over the nearby mountains and golf course. Set on the one level, the living room is next door, and offers a nice space to relax after a busy day’s activities and the bedrooms are further down the hallway, next to the family bathroom.
Situated on the most southern tip of Loch Ness, and with the Caledonian Canal running through the village to Loch Ness, Fort Augustus is a wonderful place to relax. Watch the boats go through the locks, with many places to eat and drink and shop. There’s plenty to do locally, exploring the Great Glen Way walking trail and Great Glen Canoe Trail, boat trips on Loch Ness, a Golf Club, you can discover history at the interactive heritage centre and spend some time Loch Ness monster hunting! You won’t be disappointed with this picturesque village destination, whatever you do, the shores of Loch ness are simply stunning whatever time of year you choose to stroll along them; and it’s the perfect location to explore the rest of the Highlands.
Just over an hour’s drive along one of the most beautiful roads in Scotland is the Isle of Skye. There is loads to see on the way, such as Eileen Donan Castle, the coastal village Plockton, and a stop off at Applecross Inn. Fort William, the outdoor capital of the Highlands and the beautiful city of Inverness and, are both just a 45-minute drive away. Perfect for all ages and interests, Westerdale offers groups a home from home to explore this spectacular part of Scotland.

Milton Cottage is a characterful heritage property in the small village of Rosehall near Lairg in the Northern Highlands of Scotland. It will serve you as a truly excellent base from which to enjoy the far north of Scotland because not only is it a comfortable place to stay, it’s location in Rosehall is pretty much slap bang in the middle of the Northern Highlands, meaning you can explore north, east, south and west very easily. You can be in Dornoch in thirty minutes and Ullapool in forty-five. The cottage will appeal to families wanting a base from which to explore this amazing part of the world. But also, keen anglers will be attracted to Milton Cottage. It has a rich history of catering for anglers who enjoy the nearby Cassley and Oyklel rivers as well as other Highland rivers within easy reach. Hill lochs and lochans nearby are also of interest. Enquire with the owner for costs and permits to fish whilst at Milton Cottage.
Arriving at Milton Cottage is a joy. The property has real curb appeal in the village of Rosehall. Park up on the driveway and enjoy the space around the property with its large wrap-around garden. The views out the back are fantastic too looking out over village fields to rolling Highland hills. Entering the property by the side door you have a very useful boot/drying/utility room. Perfect for long days out exploring, the dogs and also to store waders if fishing. This leads into the spacious kitchen/dining room. Beyond is the living room with open fire - wood and coal are left for you to use. There’s a large double bedroom also on the ground floor, and the family bathroom. On the first floor there are two further bedrooms, another double and a twin. There’s also a small study if anyone is inclined to check emails on holiday. All in all, you need to pick Milton Cottage because it’s perfectly located in the far north of Scotland. You’ll have a memorable, enjoyable stay at Milton Cottage.

This sophisticated apartment oozes comfort and style. The strong traditional Scottish-themed décor throughout so aptly complements the surroundings and adds to the whole experience of staying at the Pine Tree Cabin.
Set over one floor, there is an open plan living/dining/kitchen space, which has a balcony where you can enjoy the uninterrupted views over the loch, al fresco dining or a nice glass of wine, and soak up the fresh Highland air.
The kitchen/dining area is the perfect area to rustle up your favourite meal whilst doing a spot of entertaining. There is an electric wood burner centrally positioned to add to the ambiance of the room especially when the weather is changeable outside.
There is a master bedroom with an en-suite walk-in shower. There are two further bedrooms, each with twin beds which can be made into kingsize beds (on request). There is also a further shower room with walk-in shower next to the living area.
Pine Tree Cabin is in a prime location to enjoy some of Scotland’s most popular tourist attractions.
Fort William is under half an hour’s drive away and is known as the ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’. Scotland’s highest mountain Ben Nevis is found here and there is also a wide selection of shops, cafes and restaurants to enjoy.
A very popular experience is the Harry Potter Steam Train which takes you over the famous Harry Potter bridge (Glenfinnan Viaduct) and finishes up in the quaint fishing town of Mallaig. This area is known for its spectacular white-sand beaches.
In the opposite direction of Fort William, you can visit the famous Loch Ness, take a day trip to Skye or go for some adventures with ‘Monster Outdoor’ for your adrenaline fix.
Whether it’s to relax and enjoy the nature that surrounds you or get your fix of the great outdoors, no matter your pleasure, Pine Tree Cabin is the perfect base to enjoy this incredible area.

Northfork Cottage is situated between Wick and John O’Groats, and enjoys a lovely position overlooking Sinclair’s Bay.
The sea view from the cottage is amazing and endlessly interesting. Beyond the paddocks in the foreground surrounding the cottage the Ackergill Links with Wick golf course is clearly visible. Beyond the dunes Reiss Sands stretches for nearly 3 miles along the shore of Sinclair’s Bay. Also, in view is Ackergill Tower, the remains of Castle Sinclair Birnigoe and Noss Head lighthouse. You’ll be mesmerised by the view throughout your entire stay.
Only a few miles out of Wick in Quoys of Reiss, you’re under a mile walk to Reiss Sands beach and the first tree of Wick golf club. This house would suit those wanting to be playing some high-quality links golf.
There are so many fascinating places to visit near to Northfork Cottage and the owner is incredibly well informed as well as willing to help direct you to both well-known sights and hidden gems.
Places you have to visit whilst staying at Northfork Cottage though include: John O’Groats, Duncansby Head, The Castle of Mey and Orkney. Orkney is only a short hop across the Pentland Firth, and as the owner will point out, by looking at Sinclair’s Bay you can tell if the crossing to Orkney will be good or best avoided.
The accommodation is geared up for the amazing view. Entering through the front door there’s a useful utility room. You then enjoy the open plan living/dining/kitchen. The living area has a fantastic large window in front of which you can sit in two comfortable chairs simply watching the amazing view. It’s honestly mesmerising! There’s also a Smart TV that rivals the size of the enormous window, so when you want to shift gaze, you have an excellent screen on which to fix.
There’s a double bedroom at the back of the cottage with a view out over paddocks to the interior of Caithness. There’s also a second living room come reading room that has a single futon for flexible sleeping arrangements. The accommodation is complete with a shower room.
It’s a great spot enjoy amazing views. And the owner is incredibly helpful to ensure you get the most out of your time visiting Caithness. Beach ¾ mile.

Mey Bee is a gem of a cottage in the far north of Scotland enjoying views across rural Caithness and out to see to the Orkney Islands. The owner has done a marvellous job creating this peaceful, attractive cottage from what was once a ruin. Mey Bee is now a beautiful cottage and one that anyone staying in will wish they had more time in the place, it’s that lovely. You may wish to book for longer than you think, you’ll be pleased you did so.

The setting is inspiring and calming. Set within an acre of wildflower meadow the cottage sits under the large Caithness skies because the landscape in the far north is relatively flat, meaning that the views are vast from the cottage. The cliffs of Hoy can be seen when clear and if the light is right The Old Man of Hoy can be made out. Dunnet Head rises above the surrounding landscape., and generally sea views are enjoyed out of most windows of Mey Bee - thankfully, the owner has created window seats to enjoy said views.

Arriving at Mey Bee you’re immediately struck by the tranquillity of the place. It has a calmness which is epitomised not only by the wonderful surrounds but also the Zen garden to the rear of the property. Before going into the property, you’ll no doubt want to explore right round the cottage. The owner has created lovely curving paths of local stone and little footpaths through the plot to explore. There are many places to erect a tent as well if you wanted to spend a night under the grand skies and stars as well. The front garden has a lovely sitting area, a vegetable patch for guests use, and a firepit nestled within the wildflower meadow. It’s a beautiful place to be.

Entering the cottage via the back door there’s a utility room which is excellent for leaving boots and drying coats, as well securing bikes and other sports equipment. There is a woodshed outside that also serves as a bike shed. Beyond the utility is the amazing open plan living/dining/kitchen space. There are two wood burners in here, one in the fireplace in front of the sofa, and another by the dining/kitchen area, the latter being the solid fuel central heating and also an extra oven. This space also enjoys lots of lights coming in the windows with window seats, sea views are wonderful from here.
There’s a large bathroom with great bath, and the owner has thoughtfully erected large candles in here for guests to enjoy a peaceful, comforting bath. And finally, the double bedroom is yet another relaxing space with two large windows bringing in the landscapes.

It’s a lovely, peaceful, comfortable cottage that you won’t want to leave once you’ve arrived. However, it is recommended you do a bit of exploring of course. The walks locally are tremendous, you can explore the coastline for as far as you wish in both directions from just down the road at the marvellous Harrow harbour. The Castle of Mey is the neighbouring property to Mey Bee and can be seen across the fields from the rear of the cottage. The NC500 is only a minute away so you can tour till your heart’s content to amazing sights across the north coast and northeast coast. It’s a truly outstanding cottage to spend a week, two or three.