Dog-Friendly Scottish Highlands

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.

Enjoying a peaceful yet central setting within the pretty village of Auldearn, this semi-detached, traditional holiday property has been furnished and equipped to a good standard to ensure as comfortable and relaxing holiday as possible. Just three miles from the seaside village of Nairn with its long sweeping sandy beaches and local amenities, Tigh Na Bruiach (Gaelic for ‘House on the Hill’) makes a super holiday base for exploring this wonderful part of the Northern Highlands. Visit Culloden Battlefield, Fort George, Inverness, and Loch Ness, all within a very easy drive. Brodie and Cawdor Castles are just a short distance and well worth a visit. You can meander along the Moray Coast and visit some of the beautiful, unspoilt beaches and hopefully catch sight of the dolphins, seals and large variety of birdlife this area is renowned for. Take a trip along the Malt Whisky Trail – the only one of its kind in the world! Further afield, go to the scenic West Coast, Fort William or the enigmatic Orkney Islands. Golf, mountain biking, kayaking, hill walking and photography are some of the many activities available.

Sunrise is a beautifully presented, detached cottage, situated in a stunning location and sitting right on the road of the NC500 route which is one of the top 10 scenic routes in the world. This bright cottage, set in 1½ acre grounds, enjoys commanding views across the sea with the Highland hills beyond. Situated off a small no-through lane, on a hillside, the property offers peace and seclusion, yet is within close proximity to all amenities.
This single-storey property offers a large, well-equipped kitchen/dining room with a large fridge/freezer and a spacious living room with a Swedish wood burner and high picture windows, looking out across the bay to the hills. The large hall boasts a table tennis table, perfect for spending some quality time with family. The double bedroom has its own en-suite, an electric blanket, a pure wool duvet or traditional goose down duvet, and mini toiletries on arrival. For dogs, a welcome tray and dog towels are provided. The garden extends over an acre, and there are some steep banks within the grounds, but it provides the perfect place for letting man’s best friend burn off energy.
Sunrise is situated in the small hamlet of Navidale, with the charming coastal fishing village of Helmsdale just over a mile away. Fishermen can be seen fishing for lobster, crabs and clams along the coast, and visitors can often purchase fresh local shellfish direct from the boats. There are miles of shoreline walks close by, and fossils are regularly found along this particular stretch of coast. Helmsdale has a good selection of restaurants and small shops, as well as a fascinating museum detailing the unusual history of the area, including the 19th century gold rush. There is also a 9-hole golf course in the village and the renowned course of Brora is just 10 minutes’ drive away. Travel north to visit the Castle of Mey, John O’Groats and even the Orkney Isles. Try panning for gold in the Helmsdale river and visit the fairytale castle of Dunrobin. Beach ¼ mile. Shop and restaurant 1½ miles, pub 1 mile.

Stag’s Hide is the perfect year-round base to explore the beautiful Highlands surroundings and reconnect with nature. Surrounded by woodland and grazing pasture, your neighbours are likely to be the pheasants, squirrels or deer. And after the initial astonishment and wonder of your first sighting, by the end of your stay you’ll be so used to seeing the majestic deer frolicking nearby.
Dating back to 1909 when it was built for the gamekeeper of the Kinrara Estate, Stag’s Hide now combines the very best of old and new. The interior reflects a simple Scandi style, with plenty of wood and natural textiles, creating a calming environment in keeping with a slower pace of life. Indoors you can put your feet up and relax in the warm glow of the Squirrel log burner that’s at the heart of the open plan living, dining and kitchen area. The traditional log burner gives the room a cosy, timeless feel. It’s also great for drying out your boots. The ‘old’ is perfectly complemented by the ‘new’, with state of the art Sonos speakers, a Smart TV and a stylish, modern fitted kitchen. Although compact, the cottage offers everything a family or small group could need.
There are two luxury double bedrooms, both with king-size beds. Actually one of the beds is a super-king which can be separated into twin beds, depending on the needs of your group. Both bedrooms have double aspect windows and Smart TVs, a contemporary wet room with rainfall shower and a heated storage cupboard for any outdoor clothing. You may choose to digitally detox during your stay. But if you do need to stay connected, the cottage comes fully equipped with Smart TVs and free Wi-Fi. A more traditional detox may prove trickier!
The Kinrara distillery is only a short walk away and there’s a choice of local breweries and distilleries, all within a few minutes drive. It doesn’t matter when you visit, Stag’s Hide will be the perfect base for your trip. In winter you can see the Cairngorm ski runs from the door, with the Mountain Centre lifts only a short drive away. In spring and summer, there’s plenty to explore, with the centre of Aviemore a brisk 20-minute walk away. Keen cyclists will do it in 8…
There are plenty of walks for all ages and all abilities. General Wade’s Old Military Trail runs past the cottage and there’s a pleasant 20-minute walk to the shores of picturesque Loch Alvie. The more daring in your group may choose to hurtle through the pine forest on a zipwire at the nearby Zip Trek Adventure Park!! Whatever you choose to do, Stag’s Hide is the ideal base to explore this stunning part of Scotland. Whether you visit in the spring, summer, autumn or winter, the cottage has everything you need to create memories.

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.

This stunning detached barn has a large space for parking (4 cars). Upon entering the property through the main door, you have a useful heated vestibule area for boots, coats and drying kit. This leads you through to the large open plan living space, which is a fantastic area with its triple aspect windows and views over the surrounding Highland countryside. The comfy sofas, beautiful views, wide-screen TV and wood burner all combine to create a truly wonderful living area. From here the hallway leads to the two bedrooms and bathroom. The master bedroom is very generously sized and both bedrooms enjoy flexible zip and link beds (superking/twin), fitted wardrobes and far-reaching views over the countryside. Outside there’s a large, private decking area that is accessible from the open plan living space. It’s a lovely spot to relax and have a drink at the end of a long day out exploring the Northern Highlands (remember your binoculars - the bird life is fantastic!). There is an enclosed garden beyond the decking which is a great space for your dogs.
Being on the outskirts of Lairg (1¾ miles away) means you are close to the local amenities- restaurants, shops, petrol station, visitor centre- and yet you can still enjoy that rare commodity in the Highlands of being able to walk home afterwards - in this case, through the beautiful countryside.
Reaching Lairg is an adventure; you’ve made it to the far north, and the ’Crossroads of the Highlands’. In the immediate area you can enjoy the history and Neolithic archaeology of Lairg, tours of Balblair Distillery, salmon leaping at the Falls of Shin, otter watching at Bonar Bridge, bird watching from the decking, and the award-winning sandy beaches at Golspie and Dornoch. For those feeling more active, within 45 minutes’ drive there are red, blue and black mountain biking runs; amazing road cycling; angling in river, loch and estuary (including the famous salmon on Carron, Oykel and Cassley); sailing, hill walking and six golf courses including the world class Royal Dornoch. Taking a step further out, you can access the stunning mountains of Assynt and the North West Highlands Geopark to the West; the vast expanse of wilderness and Orkney to the North; the Pictish trail and more amazing beaches to the East and you can easily link up with different sections of the famous North Coast 500 touring road from your base in beautiful Lairg.
Amazingly, the property is only 1¼ hours drive from Inverness Airport - really convenient.

Red Kite Cottage is located just six miles north of Inverness and is nestled into the countryside with stunning views down the garden backing onto a small private wooded area. The property has an open plan living area with a well-equipped kitchen and comfortable furnishings throughout. There is a double bedroom and a twin bedroom, both served by a family shower room. Outside there is a large decked area with seating for sunny evenings and lazy days. There is a large enclosed lawned garden which is ideal for children and our four legged friends.
The property has easy access to the A9, which makes it a perfect location for exploring the Black Isles and further up into the Northern Highlands. It is within easy reach of the popular village of Fortrose, where you can see the bottlenose dolphins and just a mile further, you can walk on the stunning Rosemarkie beach. Beach 8 miles. Shop 9 miles, pub and restaurant 3 miles.

Uaine Cottage is a warm and welcoming home from home which has recently been fully refurbished in 2020 to a high standard. Through the front door you’ll find a hallway with plenty of coat hooks for your layers, along with a separate toilet. The living/dining room is a great space with ample seating at the dining table. The kitchen is spacious and you will find all the modern amenities you will need to rustle up hearty meals after long days out exploring in the Cairngorms. There is a door out into the enclosed back garden which has garden furniture and a patio. There are mature trees surrounding most of the garden making it feel very private and to top it off there is a charcoal BBQ to enjoy al fresco dining on the warm summer days. Back into the house there are two spacious bedrooms, one a double and one twin. There is also a modern bathroom with rain shower over bath.
Uaine Cottage is situated in the ever-popular Aviemore. Tucked away in a quiet part of town, close to a bend in the River Spey. However, it is only a ten minute walk from all of the pubs, restaurants and cafés in Aviemore thanks to a lovely little footpath. As well as many fabulous independent places to eat and drink, Aviemore has much more to offer. Being a hub for the Cairngorms National Park, you are ideally located for setting off to the mountains and have plenty of adventure. Whether you visit in the summer or winter, there’s a whole host of activities to enjoy. Hiking, mountain biking and fishing are popular in the summer, and come winter you can pursue the best skiing, snowshoeing and winter walking in the UK.
Being in Aviemore gives you a great opportunity to explore other places in the area, as the the property is situated just off the A9. You can journey down the Spey and visit the charming neighbouring villages of Carrbridge, Boat of Garten and Nethy Bridge, and continue to see the Speyside distilleries. You could also explore this area on foot by walking the Speyside Way, or hopping on and off the steam railway. Inverness is only 30 minutes away by car, and if you want to go further afield and explore some other mountains, you can be in Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis in just over two hours. Closer to home, Loch Morlich is just 7 miles away, with a wonderful sandy beach known as the highest beach in the UK! Uaine Cottage is a delight, it makes for a perfect holiday home with so much on your doorstep, but its secluded location means you have a peaceful base to rest, relax and recharge. Beach 7 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

This cosy holiday home is a no-smoking detached bungalow with a hot tub at the end of a quiet and peaceful cul-de-sac in the well known and highly sought after Silverglades area of Aviemore. Situated alongside the Strathspey Steam Railway, it’s only a short 8-minute walk along a quiet country lane to the beating heart of Aviemore and all it’s amenities. Holly Lodge is ideally located for those wanting adventure, romance or peace and quiet, Holly Lodge is the perfect place to start and end your day for families, couples and friends alike. For those arriving by car, there’s plenty of space for two vehicles or more with on-road parking if required.

If during your stay you’ve had enough of mountains, lochs and walks for the day, Holly Lodge ensures you’re kept entertained with unlimited Wi-Fi, a NowTV subscription with entertainment and movie packages, as well as a DVD player with a selection of DVDs. There’s also a large selection of board games for all ages if you decide you really want to fall out with each other (play Monopoly at your own risk)!

You can also indulge in the flicker of flames with the wood burner in the living room, which has a complimentary pack of locally sourced wood from a renewable and responsibly managed family business in Kincraig.

Both bedrooms provide professionally cleaned linen, towels, robes and slippers so you can be comfortable and relaxed during your stay. For little ones, there is a travel cot and highchair, as well as plastic dishes, cups and cutlery. The kitchen is also very well appointed in terms of utensils and equipment, including a dishwasher.

If the weather is in your favour, then you can enjoy and relax in the spacious, enclosed garden which provides a place for the kids to play, as well as a brick barbecue which has a starter pack of charcoal and all utensils are provided, so all you need to think about is what is on the menu. The gem in the garden however is definitely the private NS7 Serenity hot tub. The tub is always on, fully maintained and certified for hygiene and cleanliness, and seats six. This provides the perfect way to relax and soothe the aching bones and muscles after a hard days exploring. Don’t worry if you get back late in the day, as the hot tub has built-in lighting so you can enjoy the bubbles even after the sun has gone down, and its a firm favourite with all guests.

Growing from strength to strength every year, Aviemore is the perfect hub for reaching other areas of the Cairngorms as well as for enjoying the local facilities and activities. You’re a pleasant 10-minute stroll from the nearest country pub/restaurant, and the fantastic and varied local shops. If you hop in the car you’re 15 minutes from Loch Morlich or Loch Insh and the fantastic water sports provisions there, as well as Rothiemurchus en route and the amazing outdoor centre for a whole raft of activities. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.

Seaview Cottage is situated in rural Drimnin on the picturesque Morvern Peninsula and has outstanding panoramic views sweeping over the Sound of Mull. The landscaped gardens, with seating areas, take advantage of the surrounding sea views. A short stroll from the house will bring you to a lovely pebble beach.
The area is famed for its natural rugged beauty and wildlife including red deer, pine marten, wild cats and otters. Bird life including the magnificent golden eagle and sea eagle, and marine life are also in evidence and porpoises are regularly spotted chasing the ferry and other boats. Wildlife tours both sea and land are available in the area.
Lochaline is a small coastal village just over 10 miles away with a shop and restaurant, further facilities and amenities are available in Isle of Mull, Strontian, Fort William and Oban. Its location in this most attractive area of the Highlands means that it is well-placed to take advantage of the many leisure and pleasure activities which the area has to offer. There are regular ferry services from Lochaline over to Fishnish on the Isle of Mull. Beach 50 yards. Shop and pub 10 miles, restaurant ¼ mile.