Dog-Friendly Scottish Highlands

Situated in the pretty village of Ballachulish, with amazing views from the front up towards some spectacular mountain scenery, Rocky Mountain View has been furnished and equipped to a very good standard to ensure a comfortable and relaxing holiday. Only 1 mile from historic Glencoe, this lovely, semi-detached cottage makes an ideal holiday base from which to explore this beautiful part of Scotland, including Lochaber, Argyll and the western and northern Highlands. The area is surrounded by spectacular scenery, mountains, lochs and hidden glens, and there is an abundance of wildlife.
Glencoe’s famous rugged mountain range is extremely popular with climbers and walkers, whilst mountain biking, skiing, golf, sailing and forest walks are just a few of the many activities available. Loch Leven, which is just a short walk away, boasts a variety of water sports, including kayaking and canoeing. The Nevis Range gondola and the Jacobite West Highland steam train are a short drive away in Fort William, and from which you can view some of the most spectacular scenery on offer. Fort William, the ’Outdoor Capital of the UK’ is just 13 miles away and boasts a variety of shops, pubs and restaurants.
Take the short crossing on the Corran Ferry and head for Ardnamurchan Point, the most westerly point in Britain, or the beautiful island of Mull. The area is steeped in history, and coupled with the magnificent natural terrain has been used as a backdrop in many well-known films such as Harry Potter (Glenfinnan Viaduct) and Braveheart. A short walk will take you to the Isles of Glencoe Hotel and Leisure Centre with its swimming pool, and a regular bus service is available. A holiday at Rocky Mountain View is where many happy memories will be made. Shop, pub and restaurant 500 yards.

Fionn Croft Lodge is a contemporary, architect designed, eco-friendly lodge situated in a stunning location on the renowned west coast. This impressive two-storey wooden lodge, with a unique ‘boat-end feature’ is light, airy and spacious, providing a high standard of accommodation in a wonderful setting.
The main living area on the ground floor is open plan with floor to ceiling, triple glazed windows looking out across the 2-acre grounds to the sea beyond. This spacious room is an ideal spot to sit and enjoy the stunning sunsets, and watch for local wildlife. Whales, dolphins, otters and a wide variety of seabirds are seen close by. A large wood burner offers a warm welcoming ambience and also provides the main heating for the house. The kitchen is partially separated just off the dining area. It is extremely well-equipped throughout, with two ovens and even a coffee making machine. There is a double bedroom on the ground floor and a spacious shower room. The main bedroom on the first floor is truly superb. It has floor to ceiling windows looking out across the sea to the Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides. There is a third twin room and a family sized shower room on this floor too.
The lodge is situated on a small working croft in the remote and pretty hamlet of Melvaig. It is the last habitation on a dramatic road that leads from Gairloch to the Rubha Reidh Lighthouse, following the coast along the way. Three miles along the road ends at the north headland, where there is a lovely walk out from the lighthouse, and the chance to spot rare white tailed eagles and other local wildlife. There is plenty to see and do in the immediate area and for water sports enthusiasts, there is a small slipway in Melvaig to launch kayaks and small crafts. The nearby village of Gairloch, just 15 minutes’ drive away, has a good selection of amenities including shops, restaurants, bars, boat trips, fishing trips, golf course and an interesting local museum. With stunning sandy beaches, hill-walking, sailing, cycling, fishing and wonderful wildlife, Fionn Croft Lodge provides an ideal base for a truly memorable Highland holiday. Beach 100 yards. Shop, pub and restaurant 9 miles.

Accessed by a woodland forest track, this beautifully presented, single-storey cottage enjoys a unique setting, nestling beside a small stream, on the edge of the forest above Tomatin village in the Monadhliath Mountains. Completely secluded with no passing traffic you can relax with the sounds of the birds chirping and see nature at its best. The fully fenced 200-acre woodland has a range of sign-posted walks, which vary in difficulty and a large range of wildlife, such as its own resident red deer herd. It is also home to red squirrels, red kites and golden eagles, and also a diverse range of insects, rare dragonflies, grouse and pheasants. You may even catch a glimpse of the occasional wildcat or capercaillie, which have been seen. In the evening you are likely to see or hear the sounds of a wide range of wildlife whilst sitting on the patio. The property is detached and was completed in 2015 on the site of the original ruin, using natural stone and slate throughout. Furnished to a very good standard, Turin Nurin Cottage makes a superb base for exploring the immediate area, the Cairngorms and Northern Highlands all which are made even more special by the warm ambiance of the setting.
Tomatin is a small rural village which is just 15 miles south of Inverness, the Highland Capital. The village plays hosts to world renowned Tomatin Distillery, where you can sample whisky in the visitor centre and take a tour of the facilities. There is a thriving local community centre with many activities throughout the year. From the cottage you can visit many historic attractions that this lovely area has to offer, including Culloden Battlefield and Fort George, as well as Cawdor and Brodie Castles to name but a few. Take a visit to Drumnadrochit, a good monster spotting location, or take a trip along Loch Ness on a cruise. A trip along the Moray coastline, taking in the small fishing villages and the opportunity to see the Moray Firth bottlenose dolphins is really worthwhile.
You could also take a trip along the Moray Malt Whisky Trail, the only one of its kind in the world. Just south of Tomatin are the Cairngorm National Park and the bustling towns of Aviemore and Grantown-on-Spey, which are well worth a visit. There are numerous activities in and around the area including dolphin sea trips, fishing, deer stalking, grouse and pheasant shooting. The Findhorn Valley, in Tomatin, is famous for its wild birds and bird spotting activities all year round and popular “up the glen”. Skiing and snowboarding, as well as mountain biking, zip lining and kayaking, are all available in the Cairngorm National Park. You will also find a range of very good golf courses within easy range, including the world renowned Castle Stuart course. The less energetic, can sit back, relax and unwind in this truly lovely unique property, where many happy memories are sure to be made. Beach 16 miles. Shop ½ mile, pub and restaurant 6 miles.

Duim-Nan-Deur is a bright and spacious two-storey cottage that is situated in an elevated position, just ½ mile from the attractive village of Lochcarron, in the heart of Wester Ross. This delightful cottage provides a good standard of accommodation in a superb setting. The large picture windows and garden look out across the sea loch to the hills beyond. The renowned Attadale Gardens, which are open to the public in season, are clearly visible on the far shore. The living room is warm and welcoming with a large wood burner and a 42” wide screen TV. There are three double bedrooms, one on the ground floor, and a contemporary family-sized shower room. The kitchen/dining room is very well-equipped with all appliances guests might need for their self-catering break away. The pretty patio area provides an ideal spot to sit and drink in the unspoilt views.
The surrounding area is renowned for its magnificent landscapes, which incorporates mountains, rivers and sea lochs. A paradise for lovers of the great outdoors, it offers unlimited sporting opportunities, including climbing, hill-walking, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, sailing and mountain-biking. The nearby village of Lochcarron is delightful and is set on the shores of the loch, surrounded by the spectacular hills and mountains of Wester Ross. Lochcarron is bounded by the loch on one side and attractive cottages and houses that straddle the main street, on the other. There are a number of pubs, cafés and shops here, as well as a golf course, which is open to visitors.
The area is also a haven for wildlife. Otters and seals can be seen along the shoreline and dolphins have been spotted in the bay. There are plenty of interesting and unusual places to visit, all within easy reach. The fairy tale castle of Eilean Donan, enchantingly situated on a promontory in the loch and accessed by a small causeway, is well worth a visit. A spectacular route takes you past this famous castle and through the amazing mountain range known as the Five Sisters of Kintail and beautiful Glen Shiel, before reaching the shores of Loch Ness. The charming sea port of Kyle of Lochalsh, gateway to the Isle of Skye, is just a short drive away. The picture postcard village of Plockton is also close by, with its picturesque flower-filled gardens, little winding streets and pretty cottages lining the foreshore. Shop, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

Mory’s Cottage is the quintessential seaside cottage. Accessed via a short, direct coastal path, it enjoys views across the sea from the front of the property. This delightful, single-storey cottage has been superbly renovated and provides a very good standard of accommodation in a truly unspoilt setting. The large kitchen/dining room has French windows that open onto the extensive cottage gardens that surround the property. A few yards from the cottage is the sweeping, sandy bay of Keiss. This 3-mile long beach is simply stunning. There are superb walks all along this coastline and around the headland, with Keiss harbour and the old castle adding olde worlde charm. The local area is renowned for its wildlife. Puffins, arctic skuas, merlin and many other bird species can be seen. Otters, seals, dolphins and whales have all been seen along this coastline. The fairy tale Castle of Mey, beautifully restored by the late Queen Mother is a must, as is a day trip to the Orkney Isles. Beach 100 yards. Shop 8 miles, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

Bydand Cottage is a traditional detached stone croft cottage situated in a quiet hamlet and enjoys superb uninterrupted sea views. Forming part of a working croft, this pretty cottage has been in the same family for over 100 years. Set back from the lane, the cottage is entered through the pretty tended gardens which overlook the spectacular sweeping bay below. The cosy living room has the same wonderful views. The bright kitchen/dining room looks out across the generously proportioned back garden. Fully fenced, it is ideal for children and the family dog. There are three good sized bedrooms, providing plenty of space for up to 5 people. A large family bathroom on the ground floor completes the picture.
Whilst rural, the small hamlet of Melness has good facilities, with a thriving country pub just a short stroll from the cottage and a good local store ½ a mile along the lane. The nearby town of Tongue has a larger selection of amenities and facilities including a general store, bars, restaurants and craft shops. The immediate area is renowned for its spectacular scenery, with the mountains of Ben Hope and Loyal, numerous sandy beaches and wonderful hill and coastal walks direct from the cottage. The region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. For sailors and kayakers, there is a slipway and harbour close to the cottage. Horse riding is available at nearby Torrisdale sands. The area is also renowned for its loch, river and sea fishing. Permits are available locally for salmon, sea trout and brown trout and boats are also available to hire. There are a number of excellent golf courses within easy reach, including Durness and Reay. Beach ¼ mile. Shop ½ mile, pub and restaurant 200 yards.

Set amongst stunning scenery in the heart of the Highlands, The Wee Hoose is a delightful, detached cottage with its own garden. This traditional stone cottage has been in the same family for over 100 years. Having undergone much renovation and rebuilding, it now provides bright and homely holiday accommodation, whilst retaining many of its original features. The cosy living room oozes old world charm, with deep windowsills and a welcoming wood burner. The kitchen is fully fitted with contemporary appliances and plenty of room for dining. Upstairs are two pretty cottage bedrooms, both very attractively presented with colour-coordinated, soft furnishings.


The Wee Hoose is situated in the quiet crofting hamlet of Linside, and enjoys superb views over the river below and across to the hills. The patio outside the cottage provides an ideal spot to look out for local wildlife, or to simply sit and enjoy the tranquillity of the surroundings.


The Wee Hoose is ideally located for exploring the whole of the Highland region. Head west along a spectacular route of mountains, lochs and rivers. Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, is just over an hour’s drive. A trip to the far north also provides more breathtaking scenery. There are plenty of places of interest and outdoor activities in the vicinity - watch salmon leaping at the Falls of Shin, visit Royal Dornoch with its beautiful sandstone cathedral, award-winning sandy beach and championship golf course. The local area is also well known for its wildlife; ospreys, golden eagles, buzzards, pine martin, deer and even otters can be seen in the region. There are numerous mountain biking trails close by. Fishing, golf, hill walking, climbing and a variety of water sports are all local pastimes. Shop and restaurant 9 miles, pub 6 miles.

Balloan Farm Cottage is a stunning, two bedroom detached holiday home situated in a rural location, yet only 1¾ miles from the popular town of Lairg. The cottage was renovated in 2020 to a very good standard.
On entering the cottage, you will find a reception hall, master en-suite bedroom, formal lounge with comfortable seating and a wood burner, dining room, kitchen with a superb level of appliances, and a conservatory with a second wood burner.
On the first floor there is a snug with beanbags, a second bedroom with twin beds, and a separate bathroom. Outside there is a private enclosed garden, ideal for your four legged friends, and a private driveway with parking.
The immediate area is heaven for outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of the great outdoors generally. Hill-walking, climbing, canoeing, kayaking and sailing can all be found locally. There is a thriving pony trekking centre locally, where you can hire ponies, and ride amidst spectacular scenery. Fishing in the surrounding lochs and rivers, as well as sea fishing, is a popular pastime. The area is also a haven for wildlife, with seals and otters in the bay, and numerous varieties of birds attracted to the region. For the golfers in the party, why not go to Dornoch which is only 18½ miles drive away and has many nearby golf courses including Royal Dornoch.
The beaches in this area are renowned, with Sandwood bay particularly noted, as it has a wonderful walk across the machair, to its secluded sweeping sands. The nearby town of Lairg offers a host of shops, restaurants and you will find historical buildings scattered throughout the area. The cottage is an ideal base for exploring the North Coast 500. Beach 19 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 3¼ miles.

This beautifully finished, detached, Highland lodge is situated almost exactly in the central point of Scotland; a monument marking the point is just a short walk down the lane. The Den is perfectly located to explore the Cairngorms National Park, but because it is so central in the Highlands and the country, there are also amazing sights to see within a short drive. Ben Nevis lies to the west, whilst Inverness and the Black Isle are to the east.
The Den is set in a lovely, quiet site with space all around and views of the Cairngorms. It is less than ¾ mile from the A9, and is very conveniently located for a short break to explore this amazing part of Scotland, maybe as part of a larger tour. Arriving at The Den, you will be immediately pleased with its location and how it has been finished. Its spacious, open plan layout has been decorated beautifully, and has an enormous amount of light flooding in. A patio door leads out onto the large decking area, which has an excellent aspect of the mountains. It is the perfect spot to sit in with a glass of wine in the evening. The site has a lot of shared space to explore with children, including a large play area. It is also a great site for dogs because there are many walks to explore right from the doorstep. If you have your own horse, stabling is available by direct arrangement with the owner, who lives on the adjacent farm. The village of Newtonmore is only a few miles away with pubs and restaurants, as well as a supermarket. Shop 4 miles, pub and restaurant 3 miles.
The Den can be booked together with Cruachan (UK13683) to accommodate up to 10 guests.

The Glebe is an 18th century, stone-built, detached property that has been an important part of the historical parish of Duthil, near to the village of Carrbridge. Not only was it an ecclesiastical building, but before it became part of the church, it was a girls’ school. It is a very attractive building that when first spotted from the road on your approach, you really hope it’s where you’re stopping. Situated only 2 miles from Carrbridge, and set just off a quiet road, The Glebe has a lovely position with a large enclosed garden and private pine forest with resident red squirrels, deer and an amazing array of birdlife throughout the year.

It truly is an excellent place to relax and spend your day in tranquillity. On entering the property from the driveway, where there’s space for up to 4 cars, the hallway leads off in multiple directions, but straight across is a spacious boot and coat room, ideal for after a long day exploring on foot. The dining area is a large double-aspect room with views out onto your own woodland. The large farmhouse-style kitchen is conveniently linked with an open doorway. Also on the ground floor there are 2 bedrooms and a separate toilet. The master bedroom is huge with an historic stone fireplace across an entire wall. The second bedroom is also a great size and has twin beds and an en-suite shower room.

Up to the first floor and you will find a large, impressive living room, again with a huge fireplace spread across an entire wall. This fabulous room is great for everyone to gather and enjoy spending time together. There are 3 further bedrooms, one a twin with large en-suite bathroom, double bedroom with en-suite bathroom (can also be accessed from hallway), and a comfortable single bedroom.

There is much to see and do in the surrounding area. Carrbridge, with the oldest stone bridge in the Highlands, has a pub, two excellent cafés, a restaurant and an ancient pine forest that hosts an adventure park and a series of walking trails, offering a good chance of spotting the elusive capercallie. Beyond Carrbridge, Aviemore offers the gateway to the ski slopes in the winter and is an all-year destination for adventure travel with mountain biking and watersports readily available. Boat of Garten with the Abernethy Forest, where Springwatch and Winterwatch have been known to film, and Loch Garten are a birdwatcher’s paradise, with a good chance to see Osprey in the summer. Grantown-on-Spey is also nearby and the gateway to some of the best whisky distilleries in the world.

Aviemore, Boat of Garten and Grantown-on-Spey are all linked by the River Spey, offering some of the best salmon and trout fishing in Europe. However, if you want to simply enjoy the river, the Speyside Way hiking trail is a good option linking the towns. If walking isn’t your thing, there is the Strathspey Steam Railway giving an alternative, more historical view. The Glebe has been lovingly restored and finished to ensure visitors have a memorable Scottish Highlands holiday. A week isn’t enough time to enjoy The Glebe and its surroundings. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.