Dog-Friendly Scottish Highlands

Enjoying a quiet setting with panoramic views across the extensive grounds and on towards the beautiful Cairngorm mountain range, Sunnyside House makes just the perfect base for exploring one of the most scenic and popular holiday destinations in Scotland. The house has been equipped and furnished to a high standard which will ensure you have as supremely comfortable and relaxing holiday as possible, with your every need taken care of. Robes are provided for after a soak in the hot tub and dog beds, cages and dishes are included for your four-legged friends.
Located just a mile or so from the centre of the village of Carrbridge and only 11 miles from the vibrant town of Aviemore, both situated in the heart of The Cairngorms National Park and at the head of the Speyside Way, Sunnyside House can be used as a base to explore or to relax and unwind. Carrbridge has the usual village facilities with a larger range available in Aviemore. The area boasts a super range of shops, restaurants and bars along with a wide range of outdoor activities – skiing and snowboarding, mountain and quad biking, climbing and hill walking and a variety of water sports on nearby Loch Insh, Loch Morlich and the River Spey, zip lining and zorbing are just a few of the myriad of activities available. Take a trip on the Cairngorm Mountain funicular railway, the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre or the Highland Wildlife Park at nearby Kingussie and the Landmark Forest Adventure Park which is just a short distance from the house – a superb day of fun for all ages. Visit the lovely Spey Valley golf course and the Dalfaber Leisure Resort in Aviemore with its wonderful array of leisure activities.
Further afield, take a trip to the beautiful west coast and the Isle of Skye or a day trip to the Orkney Islands is well worth the effort. Visit the Moray coastline peppered with little fishing villages and beautiful beaches – voted in the top 20 of the best coastline destinations in the world. This is an area with so much to offer, see and do for all ages. For the less energetic, you can sit back by the side of the wood burner or soak in the hot tub and let the stresses of everyday life slip away. So many happy and unforgettable memories will be made on your holiday in Sunnyside House. Beach 24½ miles. Shop 1½ miles, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

This wonderful detached property, with its own hot tub in a private garden, enjoys a quiet setting, yet it is only 1½ miles from the lively centre of Aviemore. Providing guests with an unforgettable holiday experience, Birch Corner offers spacious and beautifully presented holiday accommodation with your every need having been thought of.
Aviemore nestles in the heart of The Cairngorms National Park at the head of the Speyside Way and boasts a wonderful range of shops, restaurants and bars. The area also offers a very wide range of outdoor activities including skiing, snowboarding, mountain and quad biking, zip lining, climbing, hill walking plus a variety of watersports on nearby Loch Insh, Loch Morlich and the River Spey, to name just a few of the myriad of activities available. Take a trip on the Cairngorm Mountain Railway, visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre, Landmark Centre in nearby Carrbridge or take a trip to the Highland Wildlife Park at nearby Kingussie, all of which are within easy reach. About 12 miles from Kingussie, lies the Ardverikie Estate, which has been the setting for films including the BBC TV’s drama series ’Monarch of the Glen’, as well as the location for movies such as ’The Missionary’ and ’Mrs Brown’.
Another visitor attraction for all the family to enjoy, not far from Kingussie, is the Highland Folk Museum, which offers an insight into Highland life in a living history setting. All in all, this is a fantastic base for exploring the many delights that this area has to offer, and there is so much to see and do for all ages. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.

Balmore Farmhouse is located just a few miles south of Inverness and is only 2 miles away from the infamous Loch Ness. The property has been fully renovated to a good standard and offers guests a superb level of comfort and space.
Enter into the spacious reception hall, leading to a living room with comfortable leather sofas that wrap around the cosy wood burner. The kitchen/dining room is well-equipped with all you could need during your stay, and provides great views over the countryside. The utility room with washing machine and tumble dryer offers a useful space for cleaning mucky clothes after a busy day of adventuring. On the ground floor there is a kingsize bedroom with a private dressing room and an en-suite shower room that is also accessed from the hallway.
On the first floor there are three large bedrooms, two with kingsize beds, and one with a single bed, all served by a family bathroom. Outside there is ample parking and a large enclosed garden. Balmore Farmhouse makes an ideal holiday base for exploring the many delights of the Northern Highlands. Located on the outskirts of the Highland capital of Inverness and close to Loch Ness and the Moray Coast, the area is renowned for its natural beauty along with the many activities available, including golf, kayaking, water sports, mountain biking, climbing and hill walking to name just a few. Discover some of the many historic castles, such as Culloden Battlefield and Fort George, or stroll along some of the many unspoilt beaches. Beach and bar and restaurant 3 miles. Shop 2 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.

Dornie Lodge is located in a rural, peaceful location just a short drive from Beauly, Inverness and Loch Ness. The lodge is one of six privately owned properties on a former small private park. The town of Beauly is 4 miles away where you will find a selection of restaurants, cafeés and bars. There is also a supermarket, butchers shop, gourmet eat-in/takeaway deli and a convenience store. The city of Inverness and Loch Ness are both 15 miles away where you will find local amenities and tourist attractions including Eden Court Theatre.
All rooms are on the ground floor, with a wide door and ramp access. The main living area is open plan with a wood burner, dining area with table and four chairs with views over the surrounding woodlands. There are two bedrooms, one kingsize and one double, both with wardrobe and bedside table. A wet room completes the accommodation. Outside is a patio area with seating, a fire pit and a barbecue built into the chimney stack. Beach 16½ miles.

If you are looking for a getaway-from-it all break with peace and quiet in beautiful surroundings, Smithy Burn is for you. The former croft sits in a unique position high up on the moor and has stunning views – on a clear day you can see Ben More Assynt which is 28 miles away. Adjacent to the Allt na Ceardaich, which translates as ‘the burn of the forge’, the original steading was once a forge on the drove road which runs down to the upper river Brora. Wildlife is abundant, and whilst having breakfast or sitting in the sunroom you might see; red deer, red kites, an osprey or even an eagle.
The croft has been remodelled by its interior designer owners in 2023 and the colourful result takes advantage of the amazing views as well as being very comfortable and well equipped for up to six guests. The owners moved the staircase to create extra space and light, added a bathroom and sunroom, and created a bar area with drinks fridge where the old stair used to be. The croft now comprises a well-equipped kitchen/dining room which easily seats six, a cosy living room featuring a wood burner, and double sofa-bed, and a large sunroom with views to the east, south and west. There is a ground floor bedroom with kingsize bed, a wet room with shower, basin and toilet, a separate toilet and a good-sized laundry room.
On the first floor is a twin bedroom with two extra-long single beds, and a new bathroom with double ended bath, basin, toilet and views across the hills. Outside there is an enclosed south facing lawned garden which includes plenty of parking space, a kennel, and a firepit with barbecue. There is a storage barn with plenty of space for bicycles, golf kit and fishing rods.
The location makes it ideal for exploring Sutherland, Caithness and Ross-shire and we are close to the NC500. Fine beaches, paddle boarding, kayaking, hill walking, stalking, fishing and shooting are all available locally. Golfers of all abilities can enjoy the championship course at Royal Dornoch as well as 18-hole courses at Brora, Golspie and Tain. A number of 9-hole courses are also within easy reach.
There is a well-stocked village shop and post office, a railway station and a pub 4½ miles away at Pittentrail. Golspie is a 20-minute drive and has a good range of shops, both Dornoch and Brora are about 25 minutes by car and fishing is available nearby. Shop 4 miles.

In the picturesque village of Fort Augustus at the southern tip of Loch Ness, this well-equipped detached holiday home makes an ideal base for touring. Walk or cycle along the Great Glen Way, take a pleasure cruise on Loch Ness or meander along the banks of the Caledonian Canal, watching the boats as they manage the locks. Visit historic castles and museums, explore remote magical glens, or follow the famous Whisky Trail. There are plenty of outdoor activities nearby and an abundance of wildlife. Fort William, Inverness and the Isle of Skye are all easily accessible. Shop ¼ mile, pub and restaurant 400 yards.

Cruives Lodge is located in a quiet location on the banks of the River Beauly and is perfect for a large family holiday, with every room providing ample space for everyone to enjoy. Walking through the front door takes you into a spacious reception area, directly in front of you is large living room with comfy sofas, TV and patio door out to the garden with its breath-taking views and sounds of the river.
The huge dining room features a large table with 18 dining chairs, and boasts amazing views of the river. Through the hall is the fully equipped kitchen, with centre island and Range master cooker. There is a large rod and boot room for drying coats and footwear after a busy day exploring the area. Leading off from here is a utility room with washing machine and tumble dryer, alongside a small cloakroom.
The property boasts six spacious double bedrooms, five of which have their own en-suite (an en-suite bedroom is located on the ground floor, ideal for those with mobility issues). The sixth bedroom is located next to the family bathroom.
Outside there is parking for six vehicles and to the front of the property is a seating area with table and chairs and a brick barbecue. The property has direct access on to the river with no secure barriers, so please be aware of this if your booking includes young children.
Cruives Lodge is located approximately 1 mile from the village of Beauly, which has a selection of local shops including a butchers and bakery, cafés, restaurants and bars. There are many lovely walks in the area, and you can take in the beautiful scenery directly from the lodge. Inverness City is 20 minutes away and offers something for everyone. There are four golf courses nearby, one of which is Castle Stuart which has hosted The Scottish Open. Enjoy fishing in the River Ness, visit the Eden Court Theatre, take in a film at the cinema, or spend a day at the trampoline park or the Aquadome.
Why not book a boat trip up Loch Ness and experience the scenery, visit Urquhart Castle and maybe spot Nessie, the infamous Loch Ness Monster? Cruives Lodge is the perfect base from which to explore the local area and then relax in beautiful surroundings in the evening. The lodge and its location will not disappoint as your base for your holiday in the Highlands.

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.

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!