Dog-Friendly Scottish Highlands

Enjoying a superb, secluded setting with outstanding bay views, this sympathetically extended, 18th-century shepherd’s cottage is set next to 2 miles of golden sand; a turquoise blue sea with twisting otters and bobbing seals; the Cuillins of Skye on the horizon, with mountains, moorlands, and forests behind.

Attractively and most comfortably refurbished, Cruary has its own garden for sitting out in. The bedrooms and conservatory offer far-reaching views across the sea and to the Isle of Skye. This fantastic property offers a cosy hideaway for all seasons.

The village of Applecross itself is home to a couple of great restaurants, including a multi-award-winning restaurant serving fresh seafood dishes, as well as a Post Office/local store.

This property is in an excellent location for outdoor pursuits including hill-walking, climbing, kayaking, paddle boarding and cycling. Fishing and golf are also both within driving distance.

To the north of the Applecross Peninsula and with the backdrop of the rugged mountains of Liathach and Beinn Eighe, is an area coming under the care of the National Trust, mostly made up of 750-million-year-old red Torridonian sandstone. A Countryside Centre at Torridon village describes the local wildlife and the Ranger Service offers guided hikes along the Liathach massif or more strenuous walks traversing Beinn Eighe. On past Kinlochewe, the Beinn Eighe Visitor Centre stands as the UK’s oldest wildlife sanctuary, with parts of it clad in Caledonian pinewood, which once covered the whole of the country. A delight for nature lovers, the area is home to deer, pine martens, wildcats, badgers, and foxes as well as buzzards, sea eagles and golden eagles, in addition to a fine selection of flora.

This gorgeous cottage, within its own walled garden, enjoys a gloriously sunny position on the seashore with spectacular views from most rooms towards the islands of Raasay, Rona and Skye. Reached via a quarter-mile track, the house was originally converted in the 1980s, whilst retaining interesting original features and has been extended and renovated in 2022. Formerly classrooms, the part-panelled living room and well-equipped modern kitchen feature lovely high ceilings, and there is a large picture window in the sitting room, ideal for viewing wonderful sunsets and abundant wildlife.
Sandy beaches are to be found at Sand Beach (3 miles) and Applecross Bay (7 miles); the village of Applecross itself is home to a couple of great restaurants, including a multi-award winning restaurant serving fresh seafood dishes, as well as a Post Office/local store. The sheltered, fertile coast around the village is idyllic, you can wander along lanes banked with wild iris and orchids and explore beaches and rock pools on the shore.
Several National Trust for Scotland properties make for good days out, including Strome Castle, and the Countryside Centre at Torridon (open May to September), the latter providing an insight into local flora, fauna and geology. From Torridon village, a scenic drive takes in the shoreline before winding past cliffs and gorges up to Diabaig, whilst 8 miles to the north, Lake Maree is dotted with Caledonian pine clad islands and lies as a scenic gem. The surrounding area also offers some of Scotland’s best deer-sighting country. This property is in an excellent location for outdoor pursuits including hill-walking, climbing, kayaking, paddle boarding and cycling. Fishing and golf are also both within driving distance. Shop 9 miles. Beach 3 miles.

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 charming, spacious, attractive, well furnished and equipped holiday cottage enjoys a rural location and is in a large enclosed garden, with adjoining woods. It is conveniently located 4 miles from Nairn, which has miles of sandy beaches, 2 championship golf courses, bowling, tennis and shops; and ½ hour drive from Inverness. Close to Cairngorms with skiing, mountain railway, mountain biking and superb walking and climbing. Cawdor, 1 mile away, is a conservation village with quaint houses, PO and a tavern. Horse riding can also be found 1 mile away. Adjacent is the castle with gardens and grounds, which are open in the summer. Shop and pub 1 mile.

Zeezicht is a spacious and well-appointed family holiday home, sitting in a prime lochside location with breath-taking views over Loch Torridon to the mountains and beyond. Situated in the northwest Scottish Highlands, it provides a truly get-away-from-it-all experience with dramatic mountain and loch views. This area has so much to offer in the way of outdoor activities, with all levels of walking from munro-bagging to low level coastal routes. Activities available locally include fishing, clay pigeon shooting, kayaking, gorge scrambling, mountain biking, boat trips and so much more. An abundance of wildlife from eagles to pine martens and mountain hares can be spotted throughout the area. Just a short drive away from Zeezicht you can enjoy golf at Gairloch or Lochcarron, or visit Inverewe Gardens and the Applecross Peninsula, so do come and enjoy. 200 yards from loch shore. Shop and restaurant 5 miles, pub 7 miles.

This cosy croft house boasts spectacular hillside views over the Sound of Raasay towards the Island of Rona and the mountains of Torridon. Dating from the 1870s, it offers year round holiday accommodation and is delightfully refurbished. Sand and shingle beach, 2 miles. Nearby there are boat trips to the Outer Hebrides. It stands alone in its own unspoilt ¼-acre grounds, with views and a sitting-out area, half a mile from the coast. It is ideally placed to appreciate an abundance of wildlife, dramatic scenery, walking, fishing and challenging climbing. Shops 4 miles, pub 7 miles.

Superior detached bungalow (far left in photograph) one of two very attractive houses, well furnished and equipped and set only 200 yards from the shoreline of Loch Linnhe. Wonderful position overlooking the loch and Glencoe mountains with pleasant walks on the shore or ramble on the adjacent private hillside. Sitting 8 miles south of Fort William, it is an ideal holiday base for touring in all directions. Good eating places within walking distance. Fish, sail or surf (bring own equipment). Large patio doors to appreciate the view. Shop and pub ¼ mile.

In the heart of Glencoe, an area of outstanding beauty and steeped in history, this detached, single-storey lodge makes an ideal holiday base. Close to Fort William, and surrounded by stunning lochs and magnificent mountains, there is plenty to do.
Explore the rugged West Coast and Highlands of Scotland, visit the Inner Isles by ferry, or take the steam train from Fort William crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct as depicted in the Harry Potter movie. Climbing, skiing, golf, mountain biking, water sports and fishing nearby. Oban, Skye and Loch Ness are easily accessible. Shop ¼ mile, pub and restaurant 400 yards.

In a superb location with wonderful views towards Loch Linnhe, the Caledonian Canal, Fort William and the surrounding mountains, this spacious house, one of a pair, adjoins the owners’ seldom used holiday apartment and offers an ideal base for discovering the west coast of Scotland. The holiday property is decorated with a Christmas theme during the festive season.
The area is renowned for its outdoor pursuits, breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. Known as the ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’, activities include mountain biking, climbing, skiing, kayaking, walking, golf and fishing. Take a trip on the gondola up Aonach Mor or try the World Championship mountain bike course. For outdoor enthusiasts who like a challenge, why not take on Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain. On a clear day, the view is spectacular and you can see for miles. For steam train enthusiasts, catch the West Highland Steam Train to Mallaig, crossing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct which featured in the Harry Potter films, (or watch it from the garden as it puffs past the house daily during the summer months). Alternatively, visit some of the unspoilt beaches, historic castles, museums, distilleries and magnificent gardens.
Boat trips to the inner isles are easily accessible, including Mull with its main, colourful, harbourside town, Tobermoray, also known as Balamory in the children’s TV series, Staffa and the cathedral like Fingal’s Cave, and Iona with its pristine white sands and famous abbey. Torfern is also ideally placed for touring with the bustling harbour town of Oban, Aviemore for winter sports, Inverness, Skye or monster spotting at Loch Ness all easily reached. Shop and pub 200 yards.

Near Kyle of Lochalsh, the stunning village of Arnisdale nestles below Beinn Sgritheall (Munro), on the shores of Loch Hourn. It overlooks Knoydart peninsula and Sound of Sleat with the Isle of Skye Cuillin in the distance. Neighbouring Glenelg, 9 miles, has a shop, pub, restaurant, craft shop and Skye ferry (Apr - Oct). Amid idyllic mountainous scenery, ideal for a holiday escaping with wildlife (deer, porpoises, eagles, seals and otters), walking (including the Five Sisters of Kintail, South Cluanie ridge, Ladhar Bheinn), cycling, fishing, touring (Eilean Donan Castle, Pictish Brochs, 18th century Bernera Barracks, Plockton and Skye) or just savouring highland peace and tranquillity.