Dog-Friendly Scottish Highlands

An idyllic wilderness retreat, offering sustainable yet comfortable living, with wood burners and solar power to minimise impact on the environment, Glenhurich Cottage, within the National Scenic Area of Loch Shiel, feels cut off from the world, but is only six scenic miles from the village of Strontian. Offering off-grid living with all creature comforts, electricity is provided by solar panels and generators, and the cold sparkling water comes from deep under the glen floor. A combination of gas central heating, welcoming woodburning cooking range and lovely wood burner keeps the place warm and cosy. With no light or noise pollution, the modern world feels a long way away, and days can be spent walking through the glen, along the riverside, or snuggled upon a comfy leather sofa in front of the roaring woodburner enjoying a good book from the hand-picked library.
On entering Glenhurich Cottage, through an oak-framed porch, you will find a traditional highland cottage, with original oak beams and lime-washed walls, beautifully restored and enhanced by modern comforts. Glenhurich Cottage is the perfect nature-lovers’ retreat, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and over 100 species of wildlife including pine marten, majestic red deer, golden and white-tailed sea eagles all regularly seen. With a huge variety of native plants close by, it’s also a haven for rare butterflies and insects. Tucked away in the remote, thickly wooded Glenhurich, it’s close to the River Hurich, an excellent salmon fishing river which flows into scenic Loch Doilet and has clear, deep pools, ideal for a summer dip!
From the shores of Loch Doilet, you can discover the fascinating ruined lead mines at Corrantee or walk along the banks of the River Polloch to the much larger, historic Loch Shiel, where you can look for eagles, otters and divers (including the rare black throated diver), stop for a picnic overlooking Loch Shiel or cycle along the shore-side forest road all the way to Glenfinnan and beyond. Strontian is 24 miles from Fort William via the Corran Ferry via a single-track, well-surfaced road through the wild depths of Sunart and Moidart. Fort William is the main town of Lochaber, known as the "Outdoor Capital of the UK” and has a wide variety of attractions including the Neptune’s Staircase on the Caledonian Canal which make ideal walking opportunities on the West Highland Way, the Great Glen Way, Ben Nevis and Glen Nevis. There are a variety of shops, hotels, restaurants, distilleries, a bus station and railway station with links to Mallaig, Glasgow and Edinburgh as well as an overnight sleeper to London.

Osprey Lodge is situated in an elevated position, deep in the Sutherland hills, tucked away down a private track, and enjoying unbelievable views across the surrounding hills and open countryside. This superb, detached solid wood lodge enjoys total peace and privacy, set in 50 hectares of croft land. The accommodation is presented to a very good standard throughout. The delightful open plan living space features a welcoming wood burner in the living area, as well as patio doors that open onto the raised decking, with a private hot tub and sitting-out area. There are two beautifully presented kingsize bedrooms with colour coordinated soft furnishings allowing for a good nights’ sleep. This property is very accessible for wheelchair users, with a level entrance and modern bathroom with a claw-footed bath and accessible wet room walk-in shower.

Situated on a working farm where the friendly cattle and sheep roam freely, this is a haven for wildlife and you may also stumble upon osprey, deer, pine martin, red kites, golden eagles and curlews. Whilst completely private, it is just over 1 mile to the pretty stone village of Rogart which is home to a thriving village pub that serves meals, as well as a shop, post office and railway station. It is ideally located for exploring the whole of the Highlands, with many places of interest within a short drive. Dunrobin Castle, seat of the Duke of Sutherland, with its gardens modelled on Versailles is well worth a visit. Or experience salmon leaping up the famous Falls of Shin, and mountain biking, hill walking, fishing, and various water sports are all available locally. The historic seaside town of Dornoch is just 15 minutes’ drive away, where you can visit the sandy beach and the renowned championship golf course, as well as the 12th-century cathedral that dominates the central square. Beach 17¾ miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1½ miles.

This charming former fisherman’s cottage, with enclosed garden, is set in the heart of Fishertown which forms part of the lively town of Nairn. Located on the Moray Coast, Nairn boasts a sandy beach which is just a few minutes’ walk from the holiday cottage. A toy cupboard provides amusement at the cottage. Seashell Cottage is ideally situated to enjoy the variety of facilities the town has to offer including a links golf course, fishing and boat trips to see the bottlenose dolphins. Cawdor and Brodie Castle are nearby along with numerous distilleries - take the Whisky Trail on Speyside. Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield and Inverness, the Highland capital are all within a short drive. Shop, pub and restaurant 500 yards.

Phil’s House (ref SUUR), an architect designed, eco-friendly, single-storey house and Reid’s Cottage (ref UYT), a bright and cosy Highland croft house, enjoy an elevated position with panoramic views over the village of Lairg, waters of the Loch Shin and towards the hills beyond. Furnished and equipped to very high standards, they ensure a comfortable and pleasant holiday in this lovely part of the Highlands. Activities include mountain biking in the forest trails, fishing and stalking (by prior arrangement), hill walking or kayaking on the lochs and rivers. Golf courses nearby. For the less energetic, just relax in the comfort of the house and watch the ever changing scenery. Shops and pubs 1/4 mile.

Enjoying lovely views and sunsets over Loch Sween and Jura, Cruinn (ref URW) and Moy ( ref UXU) are comfortable holiday cottages on the owner’s working farm. Cruinn stands beside natural woodland, and Moy is situated within a wooded glade and offers opportunities to watch deer from the windows or explore the seashore where seals and otters may be spotted playing. This secluded peninsula abounds with birds, flowers and wildlife, with seals, otters, deer and badgers. There are several sandy beaches and opportunities for walking, cycling, riding and boating. Ancient Castle Sween, Kilmartin Glen and the ruined chapels at Kilmory and Keills add archaeological interest. There are opportunities to view the beavers in Knapdale Forest or visit Taynuish Nature Reserve. Lochgilphead (16 miles) offers shops, restaurants, a golf course and an indoor swimming-pool, while a seafood meal can be enjoyed at picturesque Tayvallich or Crinan. Shops 16 miles.

Cruinn (URW) and Moy (UXU) can be booked together to accommodate up to 8 guests.

Enjoying lovely views and sunsets over Loch Sween and Jura, Cruinn (ref URW) and Moy ( ref UXU) are comfortable holiday cottages on the owner’s working farm. Cruinn stands beside natural woodland, and Moy is situated within a wooded glade and offers opportunities to watch deer from the windows or explore the seashore where seals and otters may be spotted playing. This secluded peninsula abounds with birds, flowers and wildlife, with seals, otters, deer and badgers. There are several sandy beaches and opportunities for walking, cycling, riding and boating. Ancient Castle Sween, Kilmartin Glen and the ruined chapels at Kilmory and Keills add archaeological interest. There are opportunities to view the beavers in Knapdale Forest or visit Taynuish Nature Reserve. Lochgilphead (16 miles) offers shops, restaurants, a golf course and an indoor swimming-pool, while a seafood meal can be enjoyed at picturesque Tayvallich or Crinan. Shops 16 miles.

Cruinn (URW) and Moy (UXU) can be booked together to accommodate up to 8 guests.

Welcome to Middledrift Cottage, nestled in the picturesque Highlands village of Brora. This charming holiday retreat offers an idyllic escape for those seeking a perfect blend of tranquillity and adventure. Brora, situated on the northeast coast of Scotland, is a hidden gem with a rich tapestry of natural beauty and cultural experiences waiting to be explored.
For nature enthusiasts, Brora boasts pristine beaches that stretch for miles, offering a serene backdrop for leisurely strolls or invigorating seaside runs. Embrace the crisp Highland air as you wander along the golden sands of Brora Beach, taking in panoramic views of the North Sea and the stunning Sutherland countryside. Wildlife enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, as the region is home to diverse bird species and marine life. Golf enthusiasts will be delighted to discover the renowned Brora Golf Club, where a challenging links course awaits against the breathtaking coastal backdrop. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a novice, the course offers an unforgettable experience for players of all levels.
History comes to life in Brora, with attractions like the Clynelish Distillery, where you can embark on a journey through the production of world-class Scotch whisky. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the area by exploring the Brora Heritage Centre, which offers a fascinating insight into the local history, from the Bronze Age to the present day. Outdoor adventurers can take advantage of the nearby hiking trails that wind through the rugged landscapes of the Highlands. From easy walks suitable for families to challenging hikes for seasoned trekkers, there’s a route for every level of explorer.
Indulge in the warmth of Highland hospitality as you explore the local shops and eateries, savouring traditional Scottish fare and unique artisanal finds. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or excitement, Middledrift Cottage in Brora sets the stage for an unforgettable holiday in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

This detached holiday cottage sits amidst hills and farmland, midway bewtween Fort Augustus and Inverness, 15 miles, and east of Loch Ness, with some exceptional scenery from the roads leading towards the loch. It is very comfortably furnished with fabrics and colours that compliment the traditional highland style and is approached by a short grassy track. The mountains ensure a tranquil spot and Loch Ruthven very close by, is an ornithologist’s dream, with grebe and many various flora and fauna. Shop 7 miles, pub 1 mile.

Just 50 yards from the sea, commanding superb views of Loch Inchard and the mountains beyond, this detached bungalow is located in this popular north west fishing village. There are excellent opportunities for hill walking and climbing, bird watching and fishing, plus boat trips to seal colonies, Cape Wrath Lighthouse and Handa Island Bird Sanctuary. There are two grocery shops and a few pubs and restaurants in the area. There are several beautiful white sandy beaches all within easy reach, and for golfers there is a challenging golf course 17 miles away in Durness. The cottage is bright and cosy and suitable for holidays throughout the year. Shop, pub and restaurant 0.5 miles.

Red Kite Lodge is a real delight, situated in the heart of the Sutherland hills on a working farm, approached via a well-maintained private track leading out to open countryside and the owner’s 50 hectares of croft land. This detached, solid wood lodge enjoying complete peace and seclusion, is presented to a very good standard throughout. The main living area is open plan with a welcoming wood burner and floor to ceiling patio doors to maximise the stunning views. The patio doors open onto raised decking, with a private hot tub and outdoor dining table and chairs. The bright, modern kitchen area is exceptionally well equipped, with plenty of space for dining. The bespoke, solid wood, raised dining table adds an interesting and attractive feature to the room. There are two beautifully presented kingsize bedrooms each with colour coordinated soft furnishings. This property is very accessible for wheelchair users, with a level entrance and modern bathroom with a claw-footed bath and accessible wet room walk-in shower.

This property is ideal for the ultimate ’get away from it all’ holiday, with pampering included. Sitting in the hot tub or relaxing with a glass of wine on the decking after a day’s sightseeing or hill walking must be the ultimate holiday experience.

The owners farm hundreds of acres of surrounding farmland and open hills where friendly cattle and sheep roam freely, and osprey, deer, pine martens, red kites, golden eagles and curlews can all be spotted in the vicinity. Whilst providing an element of privacy, the lodge is just over 1 mile to the pretty village of Rogart. It has a thriving village pub that serves meals, as well as a shop, post office and railway station.

It is ideally located for exploring the whole of the Highlands, with many places of interest within a short drive. Dunrobin Castle, seat of the Duke of Sutherland, with its gardens modelled on Versailles, is well worth a visit. Or experience salmon leaping up the famous Falls of Shin. Mountain biking, hill walking, fishing, and various water sports are all available locally. The historic seaside town of Dornoch is just 15 minutes’ drive away where there is a superb, award-winning, sandy beach, a renowned championship golf course as well as the 12th-century cathedral that dominates the central square. Beach 15 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1½ miles.