Dog-Friendly Scottish Highlands

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.

Big Barns Cottage forms part of a separate wing of an historic B-listed Arts and Crafts house. It is one of the original buildings on the Sutherland Estate, built for the Duke of Sutherland, whose family’s seat is Dunrobin Castle. This early 18th century crow-stepped barn was converted by the renowned architect George Devey in the 19th century. He remodelled it on the Cotswold vernacular; his aim was to convey the impression of a large country house without losing the impression of an original 18th century barn. Its historic and characterful architecture is completely unique and a joy to behold.
The cottage has its own separate entrance and front door. The solid wood door opens into a charming living room with a welcoming wood burner and original flag stone flooring. The furnishing, including many antiques, have been chosen to suit the period. There is a separate dining room, with antique furniture, in-keeping with the original building. The kitchen is small but very well-equipped. Stairs lead up to two pretty bedrooms, one with a double bed and the second with twin beds. Both enjoy views across the beautiful gardens to the sea beyond. Set in two acres of private, mature gardens, which include a large variety of rare plants and enclosed woodland, the cottage has its own separate and secluded garden area, surrounded by flowering plants, with lawn and outdoor dining table and chairs.
Native deer are often seen around Big Barns Cottage and seals swimming close to shore can be admired from the local beach, which is just a short walk away. Situated one mile away from the main road, down an unmade estate track, there are numerous forest walks, cycling routes and a wide variety of wildlife to discover direct from the cottage. There are breathtaking views across the Dornoch Firth to the far distant peaks of the Cairngorms.
Big Barns Cottage offers total peace and seclusion, yet is ideally located for exploring the best of the Highlands. Just a mile away is the renowned North Coast 500 route, which encompasses some of the most incredible and inspiring landscapes to be found anywhere in the British Isles. There is plenty to explore close at hand or further afield, including local distilleries, golf courses, fishing, kayaking, sailing, hill-walking and mountain biking. A visit to Dunrobin Castle is a must, with its fairy tale turrets and its gardens modelled on Versailles. The nearby villages of Golspie and Brora, both within 10 minutes’ drive, provide a good selection of local amenities, including pubs, restaurants, supermarkets, cafés and small shops. This totally unique historic cottage provides warm and welcoming accommodation in a truly superb setting. Beach 1 mile. Shop, pub and resturant 1½ miles.

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.

Ardlearag is an outstanding architecturally-designed and timber-clad holiday home in the North West Scotland. Overlooking the sea loch Little Loch Broom, Ardlearag also has views of the isolated Scoraig peninsula and wee mountain Beinn Ghobhlach across the loch, and to the east An Teallach, a fabulous Munro, is in view and only a few miles away. Staying at Ardlearag is like striking gold. Pulling up at the stunning property you won’t believe your luck. Any length of time booked is guaranteed to be too short.

The property nestles into the landscape right beside the water and is surrounded by mountains. The area around Ardlearag is known as the ‘great wilderness’ and staying at the property makes it easy to see why. The front of the house looks towards the water and mountains -quite rightly - so you enter through the back door. On the left there’s a well-placed utility room, perfect for cleaning up after long days out exploring in the wilds. Quickly you discover the wow factor of the house, which is the vast amount of glass in the open plan living/dining/kitchen area. Views up the loch and across the water are truly sensational. It’s an amazing room making the most of the surroundings, and it’s finished to a fantastic high standard (like the whole house). To return to this room after days out on adventures is pure bliss.

Beyond the house the great wilderness awaits. An Teallach is a fantastic Munro and with it being so close it deserves an attempt or two during your holiday. Ullapool and Assynt beyond are not far away, and to the south the coastal villages of Aultbea, Poolewe and Gairloch with numerous sandy beaches to choose from await. Staying at Ardlearag is a superb choice for the most amazing of Highland holidays. Book now and forever be happy with your choice!

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.

A charming semi-detached converted property, resting on the outskirts of Fort William. Pet-friendly. WiFi. Woodburner. Glencoe 21.3 miles.

Situated on its own, right on the shoreline, enjoying panoramic views of the seascape this unique detached house offers an exceptionally good standard of holiday accommodation throughout. The living room and large kitchen/dining room look out across the bay. A second living room upstairs is built in the form of an ’observatory’, complete with balcony from which to spot the wide variety of bird and sea-life. Miles of shoreline walks are accessed directly from the property. The unspoilt fishing village of Helmsdale has a harbour and restaurants and shops. The area is renowned for its unspoilt beaches, wild and rugged coastline and traditional villages. Fossils are regularly found along this particular stretch of coast. Travel north to visit the Castle of Mey, John O’ Groats and the Orkney Isles. Golf, fishing, cycling, hill-walking, surfing and pony trekking all available locally. Try panning for gold in the Helmsdale river and visit the fairytale castle of Dunrobin. Shops, pub and restaurant 500 yards.

Set on the fringes of Aviemore village, a wonderful location for enjoying the great outdoors in the heart of the Cairngorm National Park, these superbly appointed and beautifully furnished properties offer a very high degree of comfort. Sitting in a quiet cul de sac, they are ideal for family gatherings. All of the four properties (refs S4401, S4402, S4615 and S4538) enjoy their own private hot tub (each for 4 people) and S4401, S4402 and S4538 have a digital, infrared sauna with music and colour system, Freeview TVs and hairdryers in all bedrooms. Aviemore is a renowned centre for outdoor pursuits – excellent climbing and hill walking, competition standard mountain bike tracks, water sports on Lochs Morlich and Insch and, of course, skiing and snow boarding in season are just some of the activities on offer. The fishing and golf are similarly excellent, with trout fishing available all year at Rothiemurchus Estate, 2 miles, or hire equipment (at cost, licence required) for salmon fishing at the River Spey (seasonal). Sled dog rides, train trips to the resort at the top of the mountain, and the Strathspey steam railway are also found here and Britain’s only freely roaming reindeer herd can be spotted against the stunning backdrop of Glenmore. Shops, good restaurants, themed bars, live music are all within ½ mile. Other great attractions in the area are The Highland Wildlife Centre with Amur tigers, wolves and polar bear, The Landmark Centre, Tree Zone; an incredible aerial adventure and Aviemore Highland Resort Leisure Centre with its own wavepool, water slides and cinema.

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.