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.

Tucked away in a small corner of Argyll’s Secret Coast, one of the most enchanting parts of the west of Scotland, is Tigh-na-Creige - the ‘house on the crag.’ This recently renovated property in 2019 is the perfect way to live the dream of a secret cottage by the sea.

Warm, welcoming and contemporary, the cottage commands breathtaking views of the sea on Loch Riddon just north of the celebrated Kyles of Bute. Nestling within the mountains of the Cowal Peninsula and 5 acres of landscaped grounds, this is a captivating waterfront location with its own sheltered beach and private grass slipway.

Built on one level, the owner has remodelled the space so the kitchen flows seamlessly into the dining area, creating a wonderfully hospitable place. It offers roomy open-plan living, perfect for enjoying a good book or a favourite film in front of the cosy log-burning fire. Tigh-na-Creige’s kitchen is very comprehensively equipped and upgraded in 2021, with superb kitchenware and an inspirational chef’s library. Enthusiastic cooks will also be impressed by very high quality local produce which includes meat from the Isle of Bute and real ale, as well as seafood from Loch Fyne. The oak laminate floor, oak doors and pale walls create a relaxing contemporary feel, blended with the warmth of a traditional cosiness. There is atmospheric lighting, while numerous pieces from the owner’s private art collection add colour, individuality and quirkiness.

Guests enjoy uninterrupted views of the sea and the spectacular scenery of the cottage’s gardens and woodland. Loch Riddon is a designated National Scenic Area with a famous viewing platform on the opposite shore. The area has featured in many Visit Scotland commercials because of its beauty. Which is why the outside is now an extension of the interior space, so guests feel part of the spectacular seaside environment. Just beside the kitchen there is a stylish sun trap deck area with its own dry-stone walling and terraced gardens providing a secluded spot for dining, with a log-burning chiminea for the cooler evenings.

The front balcony provides the ideal spot to watch the sun go down over the glen whilst enjoying a glass of whisky. You may see some of the wildlife that Scotland is also famous for, including nesting ospreys, golden and sea eagles, red deer and red squirrels. The seas are home to otters, seals, sea lions, porpoises, dolphins, sharks and even whales. Binoculars are thoughtfully provided.

Set on the shoreline, this cottage has access to a mooring (by arrangement), and is perfect for joggers, walkers and cyclists wanting to take in the views. The sea welcomes kayakers, sailors and fishermen, while stalking and coarse angling are available locally.

Immediate local history covers a Viking battle in the glen, the destruction of the neighbouring castle in the Argyll Rising and training grounds for World War II’s Dambusters and mini submarines!

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.

Guests will find tranquillity, wildlife, stunning scenery, historic locations and a real home from home here in this gem of a secret cottage. Shop, pub/restaurant 2½ miles.

Nestled within the breathtaking beauty of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, our luxury lodge offers a sublime retreat amidst the serene landscapes of Scotland’s iconic countryside. Situated directly opposite Loch Eck, this enchanting haven provides unparalleled views of the tranquil waters and surrounding mountains, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the natural splendour of their surroundings.
As you approach the lodge, you’ll be captivated by its picturesque setting. Step inside, and you’ll discover a sanctuary of comfort and style, where modern amenities blend seamlessly with traditional Scottish craftsmanship to create an atmosphere of relaxed luxury. The focal point of the lodge is the spacious living area, where floor-to-ceiling sliding doors open onto a raised deck with a sunken hot tub offering panoramic views of Loch Eck and the surrounding wilderness. Curl up by the wood burner and watch the flames dance as you sip a glass of wine, or step outside and soak in the bubbling hot tub, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. The lodge features five beautifully appointed bedrooms, each offering a peaceful haven for rest and relaxation. Three of the bedrooms boast their own en-suite bathrooms, while the additional bedrooms provide flexible accommodation options.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park offers a wealth of opportunities to explore. Lace up your hiking boots and set out to discover the stunning landscapes of the Argyll Forest Park, where rugged mountains, pristine lochs, and ancient woodlands await. Alternatively, embark on a scenic drive along the Argyll Coastal Route, known as Argyll’s Secret Coast, and uncover hidden gems such as the villages of Tighnabruaich and Colintraive or explore Inveraray and Dunoon, with their historic landmarks, charming shops, and cultural attractions. For those looking to venture further afield, day trips to the nearby Isle of Bute offer the chance to explore historic landmarks such as Mount Stuart House and enjoy leisurely walks along the rugged coastline. Alternatively, a visit to Portavadie Marina provides the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind, with its luxury spa facilities and scenic waterfront setting. Take a ferry across the shimmering waters to the Kintyre Peninsula, where you can explore quaint villages, sample delicious local seafood, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere of this charming coastal region.
For those seeking adventure on the water, paddle board hire is available from the Coylet Inn adjacent to the lodge, allowing you to explore Loch Eck at your own pace. After a day of exploration, return to the lodge and dine al fresco on the deck, enjoying a delicious meal prepared in the fully equipped kitchen or served at the local inn, where hearty Scottish cuisine and refreshing drinks await. Alternatively, simply unwind in the warmth of the lodge, as you watch the sun set over the loch and listen to the gentle rustle of the trees. With its stunning location, luxurious amenities, and proximity to some of Scotland’s most iconic attractions, our luxury lodge offers the perfect retreat for an unforgettable Scottish getaway.

Sithean (meaning ’fairy knoll’ in Gaelic) is built atop a wooded hillside overlooking lovely Glen Lonan on a working, regeneratively managed, hill farm. Self-contained and peaceful, the house design allows an intimate connection with the birch woods on the lower level, whilst the living space has a south and west facing dining area, commanding spectacular views of Loch Etive, ’The Shepherds of Glencoe’ to the north, and Ben Cruachan on the east.
Equally well-suited for couples, small groups and families, there’s a large front porch, ideally suited for drying wet outdoor gear, leading into the well-equipped kitchen and utility areas on the main floor. The living, kitchen and dining areas are open plan with vaulted ceilings, and attractively divided by a split-level floor and earth brick walls. Cosy and warm in all weathers, there is a wood burner in the living area, with underfloor heating throughout the house. Also on this floor is a double bedroom with a galleried balcony equipped with twin beds, served by an en-suite Category 2 shower room.
On the lower level, where you feel part of the surrounding woodland, there is a double bedroom, a twin room and a bathroom with sauna, which has direct access onto a decking area. Energy conservation was an important factor in the design of the house; the earth sheltered lower floor is protected from prevailing winds, and the living spaces upstairs allow for passive solar gains as well as natural lighting and ventilation.
The farm is home to a wealth of wildlife; hen harriers and other birds of prey, red and roe deer, red squirrels, black and red grouse, golden eagles and white-tailed eagles, foxes and pine martens, just some of the wildlife which enjoy the varied habitats.
Perfect as a base for exploring the hills, woodlands, and coastlines of Argyll, Sithean is conveniently close to the A85 for easy access to many Argyll attractions. Taynuilt village centre is just a 5-minute drive with a main line railway station, a general store, post office, butchers, hairdressers, café, craft shop and a 9-hole golf course. Ideal for walkers and cyclists, Sithean sits close to the rural lane network forming part of the National Cycle Route 78, which stretches from Oban to Fort William.

Close by is the beautiful inland Loch Awe and fantastic forestry walks through nearby Fearnoch and Glen Nant. Ben Cruachan offers more challenging walking but can be viewed from all around. You can also visit inside the mountain at the Hollow Mountain Visitor Centre. There are several inns and hotels serving food within a short drive. The busy west coast town of Oban, the Gateway to the Isles is within 12 miles’ drive either along the main road (A85) or through enchanting Glen Lonan. Oban has an interesting selection of shops, cafés, bars and restaurants, a whisky distillery, and various supermarkets. You can catch a short ferry trip from Oban to one of the Inner Hebrides, including Mull, Staffa, and Iona. There is plenty to do in the area and lots of attractions for days out, including trips to Glencoe, Ben Nevis, and the islands of Kerrera and Easdale to name but a few.

In a wonderful, secluded location, high above Carradale Harbour with stunning views to the Isle of Arran, Shorehills is a luxury modern holiday home, ideal for beach lovers and countryside enthusiasts, made cosy with oil-fired underfloor heating and a wood burner.
Enjoy your days watching the boats in the harbour, spotting wildlife in the bay below, and listening to the waves lap on the shore from the wrap-around decking. Relax in the living room with its wood burner, and watch the world go by through the large floor-to-ceiling windows with patio doors leading to the decking. The well-equipped kitchen and dining area is an ideal social space with patio doors opening onto the decking and views over the bay to Arran beyond. Perfect for socialising indoors, there’s a TV room with a 40” Smart TV and games room with a bar, pool table and darts. There’s a convenient twin bedroom downstairs with an adjacent walk-in shower room. Upstairs is a delightful, master en-suite double bedroom with uninterrupted views towards Arran. Two more spacious twin bedrooms are served by a luxurious family bathroom with a walk-in shower and free-standing bath.
Carradale is a small fishing village on the east of the Kintyre Peninsula, about 25 miles south of Tarbert. Offering peace and tranquillity, there is a well-stocked community shop and Post Office, tearoom and bar/restaurant, and a 9-hole golf course. Beautiful Carradale Bay is a long stretch of sandy beach, and there is plenty of walking in the woods and along the beaches. Locally, visit the old vitrified fort at Carradale Point, the nature reserve, or the gin distillery with a café. Salmon and trout can be fished on the Carradale River during the summer. Campbeltown is just 15 scenic miles distant, with shops, bars, cafés, a cinema, and three whisky distilleries.
There are ferries to Arran, Gigha, Islay, Jura and the Cowal Peninsula all within a short drive. There’s fantastic golfing at Machrihanish and another two local golf courses. Outdoor enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice with great opportunities for wind and kite surfing, sea angling, scuba diving, cycling, and horseriding, all available locally.

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.

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.

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.

Situated on the most accessible of the west coast islands and straddling the Highland Line, this spacious apartment boasts stunning views over the open water and lies in a rural location, just a few yards from the shoreline. A popular destination for fishing, the inland lochs are popular with anglers for coarse and game fishing. Loch Fad offers the opportunity to fish for rainbow trout and is only 3 miles away. Relax as you explore the gently undulating hills, catch glimpses of the wildlife and marvel at the vistas.
Seaview Cottage (UK4769) is perfect for a couple’s getaway, offering a comfortable double bedroom with an additional sofa bed for flexible sleeping. The cottage also boasts a private garden with enclosed seaview patio and bubbling hot tub for cosy evenings under the stars.
For such a compact island, Bute offers varied landscapes from the lush, fertile and rolling hills of the island’s heart to the craggy, heather-covered moorlands of the north and the delightful sandy beaches around the coastline. A haven for walkers, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, Bute has a wealth of wildlife including wild goats, buzzards and roe deer. Scalpsie Bay, set against the magnificent backdrop of Arran, is home to a large colony of seals.
There are many historical sites to visit including the standing stones at Ettrick Bay, the ancient chapel of St Blane, and the vitrified Iron Age Fort at Dunagoil. Visit the Victorian Gothic mansion of Mount Stuart, open to the public along with its beautiful gardens, Bute Museum, Rothesay Castle and the fabulous gardens of Ascog Hall and Ardencraig. There are many events held throughout the year, including the famous annual Jazz Festival, the spectacular Highland Games, traditional agricultural shows, concerts and art festivals; whatever your interest it can be found on the Isle of Bute. Catch the ferry for the 5-minute trip to Colintraive on the Cowal Peninsula and explore Argyll’s Secret Coast where you have easy access to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, or head north to Inverary and beyond. Take the ferry from Portavadie over to Jura and Islay, and Tarbert where you can explore Kintyre. Beach 50 yards.

Situated in a quiet glen within the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, this spacious, semi-detached cottage has been renovated to a very good standard, and has stunning views over the hills and glens with numerous walks available direct from the door. The large garden is home to a hot tub, which enjoys open views, and the garden has access to the riverbank.


The Ranch is a fantastic property, a safe place to relax and escape from the trials of everyday life. With the owners living nearby, it’s also in a great location for getting out and exploring the spectacular scenery and history of the area. The deep glens and narrow sea lochs are typical of the west coast, and you can find a huge selection of native Scottish wildlife nearby, such as red deer, roe deer, buzzards and golden eagles to name but a few. The area is also rich in history; standing stones, burial cairns and rock carvings abound.


The town of Dunoon is within easy reach, with its selection of shops, pubs and restaurants. Take a steamer cruise and explore the hills and lochs of the Cowal Peninsula. An abundance of outdoor activities are on offer, with sailing, sea fishing, windsurfing, fast speed RIB boat tours, quad bikes, clay shooting and more. Nearby, the magnificent woodland gardens at Benmore Botanic Gardens are well worth a visit.


Located within the Loch Lomond National Park, the area is ideal for walkers and cyclists of all abilities. The region boasts a magnificent diversity of scenery with dramatic peaks, waterfalls, hidden caves and mysterious, forest-covered slopes. Beach 2 miles. Shop and restaurant 1 mile, pub 2 miles.