Dog-Friendly Scottish Highlands

St Brighs enjoys a stunning location, perched right on the shores of the renowned Cromarty Firth. Originally a boathouse and built of solid stone in the 1860s, St Brighs has been extensively modernised, whilst retaining much of its unique historic character. The gardens surrounding the cottage lead immediately onto the shoreline, which plays host to a wide and fascinating variety of animals and birds. It is completely secluded, ensuring that nature is your sole companion when you stay in this very special place. An original solid wood door opens onto the kitchen/dining room. A large wood burner nestles in the corner, providing a warm and cosy ambience. The kitchen is extremely well-equipped, with built-in units and appliances. The main living room at the rear of the cottage has French doors which open onto the garden and directly onto the shores of the Cromarty Firth. The staircase, made of Douglas fir, leads up to the first floor. Here there are two bedrooms and a family bathroom. One has a kingsize bed, with a beautiful original ornate window looking out across the water. The second has twin 3ft beds, with the window looking out across the garden to the water beyond. The country gardens surround the property, with a solid fence protecting the garden from the water’s edge. A gate opens directly onto the shoreline, which is tidal. Although fenced off, small children must be supervised at all times.
In addition to the peaceful setting and beautiful views over the Firth to the Black Isle, St Brighs is ideally located for exploring the Highland region. It is just 2 miles from the bustling market town of Dingwall, where there are a number of shops, supermarkets, pubs, cafés and restaurants. Walkers will enjoy the range of forestry tracks in the locality and for the more adventurous there is the towering ridge of Ben Wyvis, the local Munro mountain. A trip to the Black Isle peninsula, with its stunning beaches, fascinating museums and pretty villages is a must. The coastline is home to the famous Moray Firth dolphins, which can often be spotted close to shore. Golf, fishing, cycling, kayaking, sailing and birdwatching are all local pastimes. Beach 17 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.

Lairg is known as the crossroads of the north, making it a perfect place to base yourself to explore this wild part of the Scottish Highlands. Fair View is about a mile out of Lairg up on more open ground which is spectacular at any time of the year. The bungalow is very spacious and upon entering you’re led to the large farmhouse-style kitchen/dining room, with a useful island counter. The large dining table looks out over the expansive landscapes surrounding the property. A double door leads from the kitchen/dining room through to the enormous double-aspect living room which has an open fire and large TV. All four bedrooms are an excellent size and have great views of this wonderful area.
The sky seems enormous and is recognised as a European Dark Sky because of a distinct lack of light pollution. Stargazing with the added bonus of the Aurora Borealis makes it an even more attractive base. There’s wildlife all around with a huge array of birds throughout the year, as well as red deer, pine martens and the elusive wild cat. The area is a perfect place to base yourself to explore this wild part of the Scottish Highlands.
You can cover a huge amount of the North Coast 500 touring road from here by travelling out to different parts of the coastline using the great roads that lead off to the east, north, north west and west coast sections. It’s great to be able to see the route, being able to base yourself in just one place.
The town itself is beautifully situated at the eastern end of Loch Shin, plus it offers the amenities you will need during your stay. Lairg and Fair View are an excellent choice for a base to explore this otherworldly part of the Scottish Highlands. Beach 15 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.

The Birches is a spacious, modern, single-storey cottage surrounded by large gardens. It is set in mature birch woodland and enjoys uninterrupted views over open countryside. This unique cottage was built by the owners to their own design and all the rooms are light, bright and welcoming. The main living area is open plan with the living room and kitchen areas divided by a feature low brick wall, and both look out across the delightful lawned gardens, which are fully enclosed and ideal for children and pets. There is a separate dining room, and a second living room with comfortable sofas making an ideal room for a quiet drink or planning the next day’s excursion. The bedrooms are all very attractively presented, with colour co-ordinated soft furnishings. With an en-suite shower room and a large family bathroom, The Birches is ideal for families, couples and groups alike.
The cottage is situated in Ardclach, a small hamlet in rural Nairnshire, only 7 miles from the renowned seaside town of Nairn. Many of the properties are tucked away down their own drives, surrounded by woodland and the occasional loch, offering peace and seclusion, yet within a short distance of all amenities. For wildlife enthusiasts there is plenty to see. Deer, pine marten and rare birds, including woodpeckers are regularly spotted. Golf, cycling, country walking and fishing are all local pastimes and there is a stocked fishing loch just ½ mile along the lane. There are numerous places of interest within close proximity in this beautiful area of Highland Scotland. Nairn has two stunning long sandy beaches, set against a backdrop of the attractive promenade, with its distinctive Victorian bandstand. The traditional harbour area is well worth a visit and a boat trip is likely to result in a close encounter with the famous resident bottle nosed dolphins that are frequently spotted close to shore. Within a short drive are Cawdor Castle, Culloden battlefield and a large nature reserve that runs along this superb coastline. Inverness, the capital city of the Highlands is just 30-minute drive away. Beach 7 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 7 miles.

Situated on the spectacular west coast, this semi-detached house, attached to Cuillin View Apartment (ref UK12829), is located close to the village of Arisaig (Gaelic for ’the safe place’). With miles of sandy beaches on the doorstep, the area is renowned for its wonderful scenery, incredible wildlife and wealth of sporting activities including sea kayaking, sailing and canoeing. There is a sea kayaking centre in the village, with professional guides and equipment for hire. Small private craft can also be launched from the harbour slipway, and cruises to the nearby islands of Eigg, Muck and Rum run from the harbour. Sightings of Minke whales, dolphins, porpoises, basking sharks, otters and puffins can all be encountered at various times of the year.

Only 200 yards away is Traigh Golf Course which is one of the prettiest courses in Britain. This 9-hole course, right on the edge of the sea, is a classic seaside links in a breathtaking setting. The immediately surrounding area is a haven for walkers and there are a variety of spectacular routes direct from the property, suitable for all abilities. The town of Fort William, just 40 minutes drive away, is rightly known as the outdoor capital of the UK and the wealth of activities, outdoor pursuits and places of interest available are world renowned. Climbing and hill walking in this area are second to none, and the Nevis range offers an amazing variety of other sporting activities all year round, including para gliding, skiing, snowboarding and a world class mountain bike course.

The less energetic can take a spectacular ride on the gondola that runs up the side of Aanoch Mor and enjoy a meal at the famous mountain restaurant at the top, or enjoy a cycle ride along the scenic Great Glen Cycle route that runs along the side of the Caledonian Canal (bikes available to hire locally). In the summer months, the West Highland steam train or Hogwart’s Express of Harry Potter fame passes through Arisaig as it runs along the wonderfully scenic route through to Mallaig. Visitors to Mallaig can take the boat across the sea to Skye, returning via Skye Bridge to complete a spectacular circular tour. Beach 200 yards. Shop, pub and restaurant 3 miles.
Cuillin View House can be booked together with Cuillin View Apartment (ref UK12529) to accommodate up to 9 guests.

Horseshoe Cottage is a traditional, terraced, stone-built cottage tucked away on a quiet lane, in the heart of the picture-postcard village of Freuchie at the foot of the Lomond Hills in rural Fife. After spending a day exploring, Horseshoe Cottage provides a cosy and welcoming base to retreat to, and is perfect for a romantic weekend in the countryside. The small enclosed garden is an added benefit where you can enjoy a pre-dinner drink or, weather permitting, enjoy an al fresco barbecue. From your front door you can walk to the local hotel for a drink or a meal, explore the friendly village down old lanes with well-kept gardens and out into the surrounding countryside. If you enjoy walking or cycling there are miles of lanes and quiet roads to explore.
The historic conservation village of Falkland, with it’s fairytale Renaissance palace and gardens, are only 2 miles away and makes a great day out where you can experience a day in the life of the Stuart monarchs and visit the extensive gardens. Wander around the medieval village where properties date back 300 years and stop for a refreshment in one of the tea shops or places to eat. For fans of the epic TV series Outlander, the village was one of the many locations filmed in this area.
The property is ideally located for a golf break, with 52 golf courses in a 25 mile radius, and St Andrews, with it’s championship courses, can be reached in under 30 minutes. For exploring further afield there’s Dundee with the V&A Museum and harbour side, and Perth can be reached in under 30 minutes. Sandy beaches at Leven are only 10 miles away and the Fife Coastal Path, for coastal walks to secluded coves and old fishing villages, can be joined here. Beach 10 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 500 yards.

Tressady Coach House stands detached in the grounds of an exclusive Highland estate, originally owned by the Duke of Sutherland. Built in 1871 of local stone, the coach house has been imaginatively converted in recent years to provide a very good standard of accommodation whilst retaining its unique original features. Access onto the estate is through an electric gate with a personal key code, offering complete seclusion and exclusivity. The road winds up through mature woodland and fields to the coach house.

The living room has original wooden floors, a superb open fireplace and a high vaulted ceiling which is a real feature. Deep leather sofas and original paintings add to its ambience and opulence. The kitchen/dining room is bright, modern and very well equipped. There is also a shower room with a walk-in shower. Also on the ground floor are a kingsize bedroom and twin bedroom with bathroom next to it, making the property suitable for less mobile guests in the party. On the first floor is another twin bedroom. A second staircase leads up to a mezzanine landing, and then to a large bedroom with a zip and link kingsize bed. All the bedrooms are beautifully presented with colour co-ordinated soft furnishings and high quality linen, and a further bathroom completes the picture.

Tressady Estate is just 2 miles from the charming village of Rogart and just off the renowned North Coast 500 route, which passes through some of the most dramatic and picturesque scenery to be found anywhere in the British Isles. The village has a thriving pub and restaurant as well as a local store and post office. Further facilities can be found in the nearby villages of Dornoch and Lairg. The coach house has its own garden for visitors to use. There are wonderful walks direct from the property and numerous species of wildlife can be seen in the area including deer, pine marten, red kites and golden eagles. Along the shoreline, seals, otters and dolphins can also be spotted. There are plenty of places of interest to explore, as the area is steeped in historic and archeological sites. A visit to the nearby Dunrobin Castle, the historic seat of the Dukes of Sutherland, is a must. The area has plenty to offer those who prefer an active holiday, with mountain biking trails, golf, fishing and various watersports. The picturesque seaside town of Dornoch, with its award-winning sandy beach and championship golf course, is just 15 minutes’ drive away.

There is a large stone barn close to the cottage with full banquetting, dining and cooking facilities which may be available for visitors to use for a special occasion, by arrangement with the owner. Beach 10 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.

Wester Lonemore is a large, south facing cottage with wonderful views across the Dornoch Sands. This single-storey cottage enjoys a superb setting, with incredible and far-reaching views across the sea to the hills beyond. There has been a new Air Source Heat Pump central heating system added for a greener heating solution. A large entrance porch provides plenty of space for sporting and outdoor gear. The door from here leads into the main living area. This horse-shoe shaped room is set around a warm, welcoming and original open fireplace. Large picture windows drink in the seascape and ever-changing views of skies and sunrises. The kitchen/dining area is bright and modern, with feature Rangemaster cooker and all modern appliances. There are three bedrooms, all attractively presented with colour co-ordinated soft furnishings. The lovely sun room provides an ideal spot to sit and watch the myriad of wildlife that frequent the gardens and its surroundings. A large pond attracts a wide variety of birds and wildlife. A modern family bathroom completes the picture.

The country gardens are a real feature of the cottage, attracting many rare and unusual species, including goldfinch, curlews, oyster catchers and lapwings. Rare osprey and red kite are seen close by and deer can be spotted from the windows. It is just a short 500 yard walk from the cottage down to the secluded sandy bay of Dornoch Sands. The charming seaside village of Dornoch is just 3 miles away. Here there is an excellent selection of high quality independent shops as well as restaurants, cafés and bars. Set around the 15th-century sandstone cathedral, Dornoch is a delightful village to meander and explore. It is also home to the world famous Royal Dornoch natural links golf course. There are six more courses within a 20-minute drive. The sandy beaches of Dornoch and Embo are also popular with visitors and locals alike. Wester Lonemore is ideally located for exploring the very best of the Highlands and is just a few minutes from the renowned North Coast 500 route. Beach 500 yards. Shop, pub and restaurant 3 miles.

Set in its own private grounds on the stunningly beautiful little Loch Broom, Kildonan is a bright, spacious and modern detached house. It enjoys wonderful uninterrupted views across the loch to the Summer Isles beyond, surrounded by hills and mountains. Tucked away down its own quiet track it is ideal for a luxurious get-away from it all holiday for families and friends. The large kitchen/dining room is modern farmhouse style, with flagstone flooring and built-in units. Across the hallway is a spacious living room, with deep soft leather sofa suites and a large wood burner. The games room is on the ground floor and is a wonderful bonus for all ages. Here is a large central pool table, as well as a dart board and other games. The rural country gardens surround the house making this an ideal place to relax in the evening. A wide staircase leads up to the first floor, where there are four generously proportioned bedrooms, one with an en-suite. They are all very attractively presented with colour co-ordinated soft furnishings and high quality beds and furniture. As well as the en-suite there is a family-sized bathroom with a deep roll-top bath and a separate shower cubicle.

Kildonan is ideally located for maximising the views, sitting on a promontory near the head of Little Loch Broom, which in summer is ideal for swimming. Badluarch jetty, at the end of the single track lane, offers easy access to the water. Badluarach is a small crofting hamlet, with scattered cottages, sheep and cattle for company. The adjoining lane leads out onto open moorland. The area is a paradise for hill-walkers and climbers, with numerous walks directly from the property and the renowned munro of An Tellach just 5 minutes away. It is equidistant from Ullapool and Gairloch. The coastline that runs along this west coast is simply stunning. It forms part of the renowned North Coast 500 route which encompasses some of the most dramatic and unspoilt scenery to be found anywhere in the British Isles. Miles of sandy beaches are interspersed with coves, tumbling rivers and high mountains. In the nearby village of Dundonnell there is a restaurant and bar which is open throughout the summer months. Both Ullapool and Gairloch, just 30 minutes’ drive away, have excellent facilities, including a good selection of shops, pubs and restaurants as well as visitor attractions. Beach 4 miles. Shop 13 miles, pub and restaurant 8 miles.

Guests will find a real home from home in this warm and welcoming holiday cottage at any time of year. Inside this wing of the owners’ home and accessed by a steep gravel drive, the open plan living space is spacious and bright with cosy seating and a window seat offering panoramic views across the surrounding farm lands to St Andrews Bay, the Eden Estuary and St Andrews itself. The kitchen area with an Aga, as well as an electric cooker, is well-equipped and ideal for practising your cooking skills, or creating a special meal, with a dining table where everyone can sit together and plan the next day’s activities.
Lucklaw Steading dates back to the 18th century, former farm buildings which have been converted and renovated to a good standard; the cottage, which is all on one level, is a private wing of the main house. The Steading is set within 2 acres and there is much to explore on foot from your doorstep; woodland and hilltop walks will appeal to hikers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers alike. With all this fresh air, you will be looking forward to a good night’s sleep. Why not ease those tired limbs after a day out with a deep bubble bath, as well as the option of a shower in the four piece bathroom. The utility and boot room is shared with the owners and houses the washing machine and tumble dryer.
Ideally located for exploring this area of Fife, St Andrews can be reached within a 15-minute drive, making Lucklaw Steading Cottage perfect for if you are visiting students at the university or attending a graduation ceremony. As well as the spectacular castle and cathedral ruins, sandy beaches and pretty harbour, there is much to explore in this historic city, with galleries, cinema, quality places to eat and local and independent shops. St Andrews is renowned worldwide as the home of golf, with seven courses under the management of the St Andrews Links Trust, and there are many local courses within easy driving distance for guests wanting to enjoy golf in the area.
The traditional market town of Cupar, which sits on the banks of the River Eden, has much to offer and is fascinating to walk around, with plenty of places to eat, and a particularly good selection of independent shops. For families the area also has the Scottish Deer Centre, an aquarium at St Andrews and award-winning sandy beaches and forest walks at Tentsmuir, just a short drive away. Across the Tay Bridge, Dundee has lots to offer for a day out, including the V&A with its dramatic waterfront setting and the historic ship ’Discovery’, and is well worth a visit. The Olympia Leisure Centre has a swimming pool, which is great for entertaining the kids on wet days. The East Neuk of Fife has spectacular coastline with picturesque fishing villages built around old harbours and unspoilt beaches. Following the coastal path offers a scenic walk with plenty of places to stop off and visit. Beach 9 miles. Shop 3½ miles, pub and restaurant 4 miles.

Set on the shores of Loch Lochy with breathtaking views across to Ben Nevis and the Aonach Mor mountains. This detached log home is furnished to a wonderful standard. Gairlochy Bay is set in a stunning location, accessed via a gravelled forest track, and guests can fish from the decking, watch the boats sail through the Caledonian Canal or wander around a network of paths and shoreline. For those wishing to get out and about it is an excellent base to explore the Highlands and the Western Isles, known for its magnificent scenery and abundance of wildlife. Fort William is the nearest town with an array of shops, bars and restaurants, whilst Inverness and Oban are also easily reached. The local scenery has been used as the backdrop for many well known films, such as Braveheart and Rob Roy. Visitors can also take the steam train to Mallaig passing over the Glenfinnan Viaduct as depicted in one of the Harry Potters movies, the gondola up the Nevis mountain range, or visit the Loch Ness monster. Outdoor activities include skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, walking, climbing, horse riding, golf and a variety of watersports. There are plenty of beautiful gardens and ruined castles to be visited and the area is famous for its rich historical legacy. Shop and pub 3 miles.