Dog-friendly Hotels Aberdeenshire

These two, detached holiday properties are located in the heart of Ballater, within 100 yards of Ballater village green, restaurants, cafés, take-aways and shops, many of which feature the Royal ’By Appointment’ coats of arms. The Coyles (ref UK31466) is an impressive granite Victorian merchant’s house, with all the lovely high ceilings and details you would expect from a period property. Ideal for larger gatherings, whether enjoying a special birthday or a relaxing get together with friends, with plenty of living space and very good amenities throughout to ensure a memorable and convivial holiday. On two levels, it offers a high standard of comfort throughout and is a great choice at any time of the year. Built in 1888 using local granite, pitch pine and slate, it’s a true Victorian gem. It has its own enclosed garden and grounds, and enjoys lovely rural views to the south to Craig Coilleach. Quiet and secluded, the gardens are largely laid to lawn with a variety of mature trees and several flower borders with a variety of shrubs. There is a handy shed for bike and kayak storage, and for outdoor entertainment there is a paved patio area, with outdoor seating and barbecue. The Coyles Cottage (ref SBH) has its own garden and grounds and is well equipped throughout with a lovely sunny conservatory, and benefits from triple glazing and central heating throughout, affording year-round comfort.
Ballater sits in the heart of majestic Royal Deeside and is also located in the Cairngorms National Park, making it one of Scotland’s most scenic visitor spots. It boasts cosy cafés, quality restaurants, excellent shopping and great links to outdoor adventure, including hiking, climbing and skiing. Golf can be played in the beautiful surroundings of the 18-hole Ballater golf club and fishing is available, with the appropriate permits, on the River Dee. Ballater has many links to the Royal family and historic castles nearby include Balmoral, Crathes and Craigievar. The Grampians offer wonderful hill walking and wildlife, and the surrounding area of Deeside is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Leisurely walks abound on the banks of the River Dee or within a few miles there’s great walking at Burn O Vat, Lochnagar and Loch Muick.
Deeside is a haven for the outdoor enthusiast with a wide and varied range of sporting activities. The area has excellent hill walking and on/off road cycling facilities and the ski centres at Aviemore, Glenshee and the Lecht are within a short travelling distance. For the sportsman, the River Dee is one of the most popular salmon rivers in Scotland and the River Don is famous for its trout. Deer stalking and grouse shooting can be arranged in the locality. Relatively central for interesting and varied days out, the city of Aberdeen can be reached in around an hour, with Dundee, Perth and Inverness all accessible within 2 hours’ drive through spectacular scenery. Shop, pub and restaurant 100 yards.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 13 guests.

Set in an enviable position right in the heart of Banchory and across the street from the golf course, West Lodge could not be better placed to enjoy all that this area has to offer. With river and hill walking paths less than a mile away and within walking distance to cafés, restaurants and local shops, there really is so much choice right on the doorstep.

West Lodge is a lovely two bedroom property set all on the ground floor. This property would be perfect for couples or a small family looking to enjoy the delights of the region. An open fire provides warmth throughout the house making it a cosy place to relax and unwind in after a long day of hill walking or fishing.

Less than a mile away you will find the Falls of Feugh. This popular attraction is a great place to watch the salmon jumping upstream. Afterwards, you could sample the local Scottish cuisine at the nearby restaurant. Banchory is also conveniently placed to enjoy the Castle Trail. Crathes Castle, with its stunning gardens is a short drive away. Here you will find the adventure course of Go Ape, sure to delight the daredevils in the family.

Drum Castle and the fantastic Dunnotar Castle are also within easy driving distance. Fishing is a very popular pastime in this area of Scotland as well, with many beats accessible nearby. From Banchory, you are less than 40 miles from Braemar and the stunning Balmoral Castle, summer residence of the Royal Family, another fantastic day out. The diverse city of Aberdeen is around a 30-minute drive from West Lodge, and offers a beach, fun fair, swimming pool, parks and gardens. West Lodge in Banchory really is a fantastic property in a wonderfully convenient location, perfect for all the family. Beach 16 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 550 yards.

Blissfully set on the Glenkindie Estate, an active sporting and agricultural estate, Braemorlich is a modern and extremely cosy, detached cottage with stunning, elevated views over the surrounding farmland towards the Glenkindie and village of Towie. Situated along a rough track, it lies approximately 1½ miles from the other properties on-site. With numerous walks from the doorstep, this is a real peaceful retreat for couples or families with plenty of space around.

Glenkindie Estate is set amongst glorious scenery at the edge of the stunning Cairngorms National Park, where there are wonderful views in all directions. To the southeast is Royal Deeside, home to many fine castles including Balmoral Castle and several National Trust for Scotland properties. Kildrummy Castle and Gardens is also within easy reach and makes for a great day out. In late summer, the world-famous Braemar Gathering and Highland Games are well worth a visit, and for those who enjoy mountain sports, there are exceptional opportunities as many of the finest Munros (mountains over 3000ft) are found here. Fly fishing is also available on-site at an additional cost, however please remember to bring your own equipment! The annual Lonach Highland Gathering is also held locally. The Lecht nearby offers seasonal skiing and snowboarding when the conditions permit, and there is easy access to the famous Whisky Trail. The surrounding hills offer the perfect terrain for mountain bikers as well as many road-based cycle routes, whilst golfers can enjoy some lovely golf courses nearby, where visitors are always welcome. Riding in the area offers spectacular treks, and there are numerous wonderful walks available to take through this breathtaking countryside. Whatever time of year you come, there will always be things to see and do. The pretty market town of Alford nearby has a good selection of shops and eateries. Shop 1½ miles, pub and restaurant 5 miles.
Braemorlich can be booked together with Brow Cottage (ref UK5512), Tornahatnach (ref UK5177) and Home Farm Cottage (ref UK10382) to accommodate up to 21 guests.
Please note: Braemorlich is isolated from the other properties on-site and is not within walking distance.

These very comfortable and cosy lodges are in a perfect location for making the most of this fabulous region of Scotland.
Set in the picturesque grounds of Loch Kinord Hotel, backing onto Muir of Dinnet Nature Reserve, visitors who enjoy wildlife and walking in the tranquil countryside will find these properties just what they need for a restful holiday. Guests are welcome to make use of the hotel’s facilities, with a fine dining restaurant and bar meals available as well as the lounge bar for sampling the many whiskies on offer, if you feel like a night off from cooking.
The reserve itself lies within the Cairngorms National Park and is a network of wetlands, moors and woods. Numerous bird species, squirrels, martens and a large variety of plant life have made it their home and there are hides throughout the reserve where you can discreetly observe them. The most spectacular aspect however is the Burn-o-Vat, which flows through a massive bowl shape of pink granite (the Vat), a testament to the power of glaciers which carved out the landscape we see today. You can make your way into the Vat through a narrow crack in the rock and listen to the strange echoes of water that seems to pour out of the rocks.
Close to the lodges, there are plenty of other leisure pursuits available in the area, from fishing, pony trekking, gliding, mountain biking and archery as well as skiing at the Lecht and Glenshee. Visit the village of Ballater known for its royal connections, with its artisan shops and eateries or head east to the city of Aberdeen, only a short drive away through Royal Deeside, with cultural attractions for all ages. Lodge B can be booked together with Lodge A (UK33088), Lodge C (UK33089), Lodge D (UK33090), Lodge E (UK33091), Lodge F (UK33092) and Lodge G (UK33093) to accommodate up to 30 guests.

These lovely detached holiday lodges are set in an elevated position with marvellous views towards Cairn O’Mount. Situated in 8 acres of natural woodland, all the properties are very stylishly furnished with good attention to detail. Mountshade (ref 30297) has been constructed to make the most of its surroundings with its concertina doors from the living room, relax and enjoy the views from the decking area after a busy day out exploring. Park Lodge (ref 17329) has an open-plan living room with a cathedral ceiling, opening on to a well-equipped kitchen. Cairn View (ref 30456), as its name suggests, boasts a wonderful view towards Cairn O’Mount and sleeps 6 in comfort, ideal for families or couples. All three lodges have plenty of space between them, ensuring good levels of privacy. The local and surrounding area provides the perfect holiday for families, friends and couples of all ages. Visit Balmoral Castle, (open in summer to visitors), or tour Royal Deeside, which begs to be explored, with fantastic walks on moor and mountain, river and loch fishing, cycle trails and pony trekking, or take in the scenic majesty of Lochnagar. The popular town of Banchory is just 5 miles away with interesting shops and restaurants, and the area is renowned for its Highland Games in summer. Aberdeen is approximately 30 minutes’ drive with its theatres, bars, gardens and shopping centre, and when the weather starts to cool down, the ski resorts of Lecht and Cairngorm are easy to reach. Shop and pub 5 miles.

The Annexe at Shieldaig Cottage is situated just over a mile from the picturesque village and golden sands of St Cyrus. It is attached to the owner’s house and completely self-contained with stunning views over open countryside. An entrance porch leads through to the open plan living area, and French doors open onto the pretty patio - an ideal spot for alfresco dining or relaxing with a glass of wine. Adjoining the living area is a modern well-equipped kitchen. There is a very attractively presented kingsize bedroom with colour co-ordinated soft furnishings and a shower room all on the ground floor. The first floor has a further attractive king size bedroom and a second living room with views of the countryside to one side and the sea to the other. A utility room with washing matching and clothes airer is at the side and is a great place to store outdoor clothing.
The village of St Cyrus is located on the east coast of Scotland and is famous for its Nature Reserve, a haven for nature lovers, bird watchers and dog walkers. The village offers local amenities including a village shop and post office, a coffee shop and a hotel, pub and restaurant. A perfect base to explore the coastline, hills and glens which surround The Mearns, home of Lewis Grassic Gibbon, write of A Scots Quair. The Grassic Gibbon Centre is located in nearby Arbuthnot. There is no shortage of good walks within easy reach in and around the Angus Glens, Forfar and Kirriemuir areas.
Other nearby attractions include the towns of Montrose and Stonehaven. Montrose sits on the edge of a tidal lagoon known as the Basin. Just south of the town on the A92 you will find the Basin Wildlife Centre where a resident ranger leads guided walks around the reserve. Montrose is also home to several links golf courses. Stonehaven has a beautiful harbour from where you can take boat trips to experience the rugged coastline and bird life. Beach 2¼ miles. Pub 5 miles.

Just yards from the seashore in the quaint fishing village of Cairnbulg, this fully renovated, detached fisherman’s cottage is a haven of relaxation. The rooms are decorated in a calming style with comfortable bedrooms and an attractive living space which looks over the enclosed courtyard to the front of the cottage. Enclosed courtyard with sitting-out area and garden furniture. Just a very short walk to the seashore, the quiet streets, narrow alleys, and rows of cottages can easily carry you back to a very different time when every cottage had a boat pulled up, and the entire community made use of the seashore washing lines to dry their laundry.The nearby Inverallochy Golf Club, with its backdrop of rolling dunes, rocky shores, and beautiful beaches (there is a sea view from every hole), is a challenge for any golfer.
For those without clubs, take the 6km walk from the harbour through the village to Whitelinks Bay, before returning behind the course. Visit Maggie’s Hoose at the end of the street, a mini museum chronicling life in a traditional ‘but n’ ben’ fisherman’s cottage. Take a trip south along the coast through St Combs and visit the RSPB reserve at Loch of Strathbeg and beyond to one of the best stretches of beach in the country. Inland, the castle trail takes you through the heart of Aberdeenshire with some fine examples well worth a visit. Fraserburgh has plenty of shops nearby, while the city of Aberdeen is just an hour away. Beach 3¾ miles. Shop and restaurant 300 yards, pub 400 yards.

This reverse plan layout has the bedrooms and family bathroom to the ground floor, whilst the first floor living room and kitchen capture the full advantage of beautiful views across the sea and rural landscapes. The property is ideal for couples, young families or simply friends looking to explore the area. For the adventurous, a cliff top walk to Hackley Bay is well worth it, this hidden gem of a beach is at the heart of the Forvie National Nature Reserve and of an evening you will be hard pressed to find it overcrowded. It is sheltered on three sides by high cliffs and backed by sand dunes.

Collieston Beach is sheltered from the North Sea by Collieston Pier, and this sandy beach is perfect for families and children. The nearby ’Smugglers Cone’ shop serves delicious ice cream, drinks and snacks. Collieston is a former fishing village that provides dramatic views all year round. Just 5 miles away are Newburgh and Cruden Bay golf courses. The Oldmeldrum distillery, Slains castle, Petehead Prison Museum and of course the Forvie Nature Reserve and Seal colony at Newburgh are other places of interest.

There are a number of amazing beaches to visit nearby, including Cruden Bay, Newburgh and Balmedie to name but a few, all within 10 miles! A visit to the neighbouring village of Newburgh to see the seals is a must. The larger city of Aberdeen is 16 miles away and provides plenty of amenities and attractions. Beach 800 yards. Shop 6 miles, pub and restaurant 5 miles.

Alford is a large village in Aberdeenshire, north-east Scotland, lying just south of the River Don. It lies within the Howe of Alford which occupies the middle reaches of the River Don. The place-name is thought to come from the Scots auld ford; its original position being on the banks of the Don. Close to some of Scotland’s largest ski centres, the town is also great for perfecting your skill all-year round on the dry ski slope at the Alford Ski Centre Located in the centre of the town is the renowned Grampian Transport Museum, boasting climb-aboard vintage vehicles, interactive exhibitions as well as special collections – enjoyed by adults and children alike.
For adventure seekers, the town can also act as a base for walkers and cyclists hoping to explore Royal Deeside. The property is set out all on the ground floor and comprises separate living, dining and kitchen areas, as well as two bedrooms and a bathroom. Outside is a private lawned area to enjoy, the garden and drive are not enclosed so please be aware if you have young children or pets.

This gorgeous cosy cottage has the best of both worlds – peace and quiet with a totally private and enclosed rear garden down a quiet lane, yet just a short walk to Ballater’s fine selection of shops and eateries. A perfect place for that restful holiday in total comfort, Logiemar Cottage has it all. With stylish touches throughout the cottage, the owners have thought of everything to make your stay as comfortable as possible. The eco-credentials are also very much in evidence without compromising on luxury, with a wood-fired hot tub (with bubbles and lights) and a biomass boiler and solar panels, so you will always be warm whatever the weather or time of year. In addition, the delightful living room features a wood burner to relax in front of with a glass of the local whisky or a soothing cup of tea. The bedrooms are decorated in calming colours and while the second bedroom is smaller with a ¾ bed, it is perfect for children or an adult to sleep in real comfort.
Surrounded by amazing scenery and situated on the banks of the salmon fishing River Dee to the west, it’s fascinating history and royal connections are renowned the world over. Being the nearest village to Balmoral Castle, members of the Royal Family are often here, which explains the many ‘By Royal Appointment’ signs that can be seen on local shops and business. For whisky lovers, a visit to the nearby Royal Lochnagar Distillery, which produces one of Scotland’s most exclusive whiskies, is highly recommended. For the energetically minded, there are plenty of opportunities for canoeing and mountain biking, as well as skiing at the Lecht and Glenshee during the winter months. Golfers have a good selection of courses in the area, most notably the local Ballater Golf Club, which is within walking distance of the cottage. An 18-hole golf course, it is situated in one of the most beautiful parts of the upper Deeside within a circle of hills, making a round here a true delight. If you like a bit of history and culture, you don’t have to travel far to the castles and gardens at Balmoral, Crathes and Craigievar – all are well worth a visit. With so much to do in this fabulous part of Scotland, be sure to book again to continue your adventures!
Restaurant and pub within ¼ mile. Scottish Letting Licence AS00079F.