Dog-Friendly Scottish Highlands

Shielside lies on the outskirts of the ancient crofting village of Acharacle, at the western end of Loch Shiel, on the Ardnamurchan peninsula. It offers four double bedrooms, all with en-suite facilities and bedrooms 2 and 4 are particularly spacious. It also has its own large, enclosed garden for guests to enjoy.
Ardnamurchan is a wild and beautiful place, designated as a National Scenic Area for its outstanding scenery and landscape, a popular holiday destination, rich in wildlife with some fabulous walks and great scenery. Acharacle has a village store and post office, Hotel and bar, local garage, café, medical practice and gift shop. Other villages within a short drive have similar facilities and there are plenty of opportunities for cycling, kayaking and wild swimming. Acharacle is 45 miles from Fort William via a single-track, well-surfaced road through the wild depths of Moidart.
Fort William, known as the “Outdoor Capital of the UK” has a wide variety of attractions 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. At the foot of Ben Nevis, you can enjoy a world-class mountain bike trail in summer, or skiing in winter. The steam train made famous by the ’Harry Potter’ films, can take you on a spectacular journey from Fort William through Glenfinnan and its famous monument to Bonnie Price Charlie and on to Mallaig. You will also find plenty of walking and cycling opportunities.

Set on the Farr Estate in beautiful Strathnairn, Carn Cottage is a recently refurbished heritage property that offers a high standard of holiday accommodation. The cottage itself has a very large wrap-around garden, perfect for the children and dogs to run and roam around. There’s also a great decking area at the rear of the property with a BBQ. Entering the cottage there’s a fantastic open plan living space with a wood burner taking centre stage. A utility room is very welcome considering all the outdoor adventuring you’ll be doing. There’s a double bedroom with en-suite also on the ground floor, perfect for the less mobile. On the first floor there are three further bedrooms and three more bathrooms to complete the accommodation. One of the first floor bedrooms is a single though, so the cottage sleeps a maximum of seven people.
Even though only 20 minutes from the centre of Inverness, being at the cottage and on the Estate feels like you’re a million miles away from civilisation. Staying at Carn Cottage offers the best of both worlds, you can escape into the countryside whilst at the same time be connected to the Highland capital and its touring routes. You don’t have to stray far from Carn Cottage to have an authentic and amazing Highland holiday. Here you can bike, hike, boat and fish all from the cottage on the Estate. In fact, only a short walk from the cottage, there’s a private loch waiting to be fished (permits are included in the rental of Carn Cottage). Rowing boats are available for fishing. There are hiking routes through woodland and up onto the Farr Estate moors, and these double up in many instances as bike trails too. Also worth mentioning, is that the River Findhorn is only a short drive away up the road directly opposite the cottage, and to fish for salmon on the river pre-booking permits is necessary (contact Farr Estate for information).
If you do wish to explore further afield beyond the Farr Estate, and we encourage you to do so because there’s so much to see in the Highlands and at Carn Cottage you’re brilliantly positioned to head off in different directions and get a lot out of the area. The minor road that passes Carn Cottage leads down the strath to the A9 which will transport you quickly to Inverness and the NC500 beyond or south into the Cairngorm National Park. You can actually link up hikes and biking routes from the Farr Estate with roads, tracks and paths that lead to Loch Ness via the amazing scenery that makes up the southern side of Loch Ness. In short, there’s so much to see and do on the doorstep and further afield. One thing we can say though is that a week at Carn Cottage on the Farr Estate won’t be enough, and if you can manage longer you’ll be so grateful for the extra time to explore. It’s a fantastic place to stay. Beach 24 miles.

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.

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.

Located in the small settlement of Camas Inas a few miles west from Salen, The Steading has the most glorious situation with its own beach fronting and fabulous views across Loch Sunart. There isn’t a jetty or slip here, but you can get your boat down across the stones and into the water. There are also moorings in the bay if you arrive by boat. It really is a superb spot to take the kayaks, or your boat and explore the miles of deserted coastline, or even nip round to Tobermory on the Isle of Mull for a bite to eat (only 30 minutes by speedboat!). There’s wildlife all around with dolphins, porpoises, seals and otters all regular visitors to your very own bay. The wildlife doesn’t stop there, you’ll see many species visiting the garden, red deer and pine martens feed in the garden and there is a most amazing array of birdlife, including golden and sea eagles.
The garden is large and runs right down to your own beach. There is a lovely patio area by the house and lots of mature flower beds and lawn for children and pets to explore. A highlight though is a wee footpath that leads off to the south-western edge of the plot, and you traverse a boardwalk to reach a promontory where there is a spectacular seating-area, it most be one of the best pre-dinner drink spots in Scotland, just mountains and sea with all the wildlife to spot.
Entering the property through the patio doors you come into the open plan living/dining/kitchen space, with the living and dining area having floor to ceiling windows with extraordinary views and also with a large wood burner and TV. The kitchen area has an enormous island and everything you want and need to cook up meals to suit any occasion. Off the kitchen there is a drying room and utility space, through which there is a great gym room with views of the loch. The master double bedroom with en-suite bathroom has a freestanding bath and walk-in shower and the view from the bath is very special. The master bedroom also has a private balcony with chairs to soak up the setting at any time of the day. There are another two bedrooms, a double room and twin room, as well as a beautiful walk-in shower room.
The Steading is a fantastic holiday home that upon arrival you will not want to leave, it’s a great house for families, groups of friends and especially those with dogs as it is a luxury property that is also very dog friendly. Close to the property you have some interesting places to visit including the local Ardnamurchan distillery and famous lighthouse at the UK mainland’s most westerly point. The peninsula has many deserted beaches to explore, mountains to climb, and lochs to swim and fish. It’s a truly untouched area that you will want to keep exploring. Beach 100 yards. Shop 3 miles, pub and restaurant 6 miles.

Willow Lodge is located just 3 miles from the village of Muir of Ord, in a rural position on the edge of a croft. The property has been designed to make the most of the location and maximise the stunning views from all the main rooms. An enclosed private deck wraps around the lodge with comfortable seating for a family of six. The main living area is open plan and contemporary with industrial light fittings, a 50 inch wall mounted Smart TV and a very well equipped kitchen with a breakfast bar. The seating is arranged to take in the views with French doors to the decking. The master bedroom also has French doors and a luxury en-suite shower room. There is another double bedroom and a twin bedroom, both having French doors. These are served by a stunning wet room which is also suitable for wheelchair users. Willow Lodge is dog friendly and will provide an ideal base for walking and exploring the stunning Black Isles.
Inverness, the highland capital, Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield and the beautiful coastal villages of the Moray Coast are all within a short drive. Local activities include mountain biking, golf, fishing, horse riding, walking and hill climbing to name just a few. Take a day trip to the lovely Isle of Skye and the scenic west coast or travel further north and explore the many unspoilt beaches and coastal inlets of Caithness and Sutherland. Beach 26½ miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 3 miles.

Enjoying wonderful views across the Caledonian Canal to Ben Nevis, the Aonach Mor ski range and Glen Nevis, this bright and spacious detached bungalow is situated on a working croft in one of the most spectacular parts of the Highlands. There is a wealth of activities in the area, including skiing, climbing, hill walking, mountain biking, sailing, fishing and golf. Although rural the property is not isolated; the local shop is ¾ mile and pub and restaurant are a short walk away. During the summer the West Highland steam train, as seen in Harry Potter Films, passes close by enroute to Mallaig, where ferries depart for Skye and the small isles. Fort William, ‘the outdoor capital of the Highlands’ is just 4 miles away. It boasts a variety of excellent facilities, including swimming pool, and restaurants. The property makes an ideal base for touring the numerous places of interest in the region, including Glencoe, Loch Ness and the beautiful unspoilt Ardnamurchan Peninsula. Shop ¾ mile, pub and restaurant 500 yards.
Stepps Cottage can be booked together with W40834 Lapwing Rise (sleeps 7) which is next door.

Antfield Farmhouse is a beautiful spacious holiday home near to the shores of Loch Ness. Situated on an amazing plot of land, the farmhouse enjoys panoramic views across pasture to woodland and mountains. The farmhouse still has some original nineteenth century dimensions.

Antfield Farmhouse sleeps ten people in total and is therefore perfect for an extended family, two families or group of friends. On entering the farmhouse, you go through the front porch door, before the large hallway. Off to the left is the main living room with open fire and large Smart TV and enjoys wonderful views of the dramatic landscape, this then leads through to the snug/playroom. To the right of the hallway is a large dining room area which looks out to the front of the house with views. Further down the hallway through a door leads to the double bedroom, then there is another small hall with a separate shower room and toilet. The kitchen has everything you’ll need to cook up a storm for family and friends and then gather round the dining table. Next to kitchen is a utility/games room with pool table and darts leading to the patio and large garden. Back to the hallway, and upstairs you reach the first-floor accommodation consisting of 4 large kingsize bedrooms all en-suite.

The garden is large, laid mostly to lawn and enjoys views in all directions. It’s very child and dog friendly, as it’s fully enclosed, you will also enjoy looking at a private small grassy paddock with horses and donkeys, but this is not for guests to go in.

Antfield 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, with fly fishing nearby costing £30 per permit. Other activities include golf, kayaking, water sports, mountain biking, climbing and hill walking to name just a few. Discover some of the many historic sites, such as Culloden Battlefield and Fort George, or stroll along some of the many unspoilt beaches. Dores beach at Loch Ness shores is only 2 miles from Antfield and main beach 23 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 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.