Dog-Friendly Scottish Highlands

Cruives Lodge is located in a quiet location on the banks of the River Beauly and is perfect for a large family holiday, with every room providing ample space for everyone to enjoy. Walking through the front door takes you into a spacious reception area, directly in front of you is large living room with comfy sofas, TV and patio door out to the garden with its breath-taking views and sounds of the river.
The huge dining room features a large table with 18 dining chairs, and boasts amazing views of the river. Through the hall is the fully equipped kitchen, with centre island and Range master cooker. There is a large rod and boot room for drying coats and footwear after a busy day exploring the area. Leading off from here is a utility room with washing machine and tumble dryer, alongside a small cloakroom.
The property boasts six spacious double bedrooms, five of which have their own en-suite (an en-suite bedroom is located on the ground floor, ideal for those with mobility issues). The sixth bedroom is located next to the family bathroom.
Outside there is parking for six vehicles and to the front of the property is a seating area with table and chairs and a brick barbecue. The property has direct access on to the river with no secure barriers, so please be aware of this if your booking includes young children.
Cruives Lodge is located approximately 1 mile from the village of Beauly, which has a selection of local shops including a butchers and bakery, cafés, restaurants and bars. There are many lovely walks in the area, and you can take in the beautiful scenery directly from the lodge. Inverness City is 20 minutes away and offers something for everyone. There are four golf courses nearby, one of which is Castle Stuart which has hosted The Scottish Open. Enjoy fishing in the River Ness, visit the Eden Court Theatre, take in a film at the cinema, or spend a day at the trampoline park or the Aquadome.
Why not book a boat trip up Loch Ness and experience the scenery, visit Urquhart Castle and maybe spot Nessie, the infamous Loch Ness Monster? Cruives Lodge is the perfect base from which to explore the local area and then relax in beautiful surroundings in the evening. The lodge and its location will not disappoint as your base for your holiday in the Highlands.

Sleeping up to six guests, Broom Cottage is a traditional 1900s sleeper-built cottage with wonderful walking and biking trails right on the doorstep.
Perfect for families and outdoor adventurers, the Cairngorms National Park offers incredible landscapes and wildlife. Hike up nearby Ben Macdui or visit the Highland Wildlife Park and the Highland Folk Museum. Head to the water-sports hubs of Loch Insh or beautiful sandy Loch Morlich, where you can enjoy sailing, canoeing, paddle-boarding and windsurfing - with tuition available if required.
Grab your clubs for a game of golf in Newtonmore, visit the swimming pool or catch a game of shinty! And you won’t want to miss the Newtonmore Highland Games in August, or the Hogmanay fireworks and torchlit procession! Nip along the road to Kingussie for its golf club, its shops, the remains of Ruthven Barracks or a Highland adventure by horseback.
A snowsports hub, Aviemore sits about 16 miles north, hosting a historic ceremonial stone circle, the Strathspey Steam Railway, the Craigellachie National Nature Reserve....and of course the Cairngorms ski resort! Fort William, Inverness and Ben Nevis are also within easy reach! This area offers so much for the visitor, so whether you choose to ski, walk, cycle, birdwatch or simply relax, you will enjoy your holiday and most certainly love this cottage. This is an excellent base for family holidays, with so much to see and do nearby.

Situated above Loch Linnhe with uninterrupted views over towards Corpach and Trislaig, you can watch the sea and golden eagles above from the decking of this pod, as well as the roe deer visiting you in the morning. Unlike other pods, Cheviot comes with a full-size shower, a wood burner, a kingsize bed, a sofa bed for two children and a kitchen with a mini fridge and freezer. This is the perfect spot to relax in and enjoy the area with many activities and attractions within driving distance.
The nearest pubs, restaurants and shops are within 1 mile from Cheviot pod. The train station (which is less than 2 miles will away) will take you on the Harry Potter Steam Train and over the Glenfinnan Viaduct, passing some of the most spectacular scenery and beaches that cannot be seen from the road down to Mallaig. The latter is renowned as a fishing village and also where you can get a ferry over to the Isle of Skye (remember to pre book the train as it fills up quickly).
Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the UK and is one of the munros you can enjoy a walk up to the summit. The Nevis Range hosts the European Bike Trials.
South of Fort William you have Glencoe; no matter what time of year you travel through Glencoe it is a mystical land and will not fail to impress. Again, it offers great walks for all abilities and there is also a ski lift for those that enjoy the winter sport (in the summer the dry ski slope is open for tubing, a great fun day for all the family). If you are looking for something to do on a rest day in Fort William itself, there is a cinema, soft play, ten pin bowling, swimming pool or enjoy a walk over to Neptunes Staircase.
Using Cheviot pod as your base, you can also visit the Acharacle Peninsula; the fish capital of the Highlands, Oban; Loch Ness; the Isle of Mull, Rum and Eigg and many more.
Undoubtedly whilst sitting with a drink on the decking watching either the sunset or the Northern Lights, you will undoubtably be planning your next visit to this amazing area and pod.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 8 guests.

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.

Enjoy one of Scotland’s most scenic routes to get to the cottage, going past the Glenfinnan Viaduct which was used in the Harry Potter Films; you can stand at the front of the house and hear the steam train going past. Once inside the cottage the kitchen is to your right and is a bright area with a panel heater to keep it warm. The bathroom is opposite the kitchen and is pleasantly decorated, the living room is at the end of the hallway and is such a welcoming space, there is a dining table in one corner, a lovely corner suite and ample chairs for you to enjoy and of course, the wood burning stove.
Next to the living room is the utility room with ample space for you to hang up your outdoor gear. There is also a dog bed, dog bowl and towel for your furry friend, and outside there is a hose if you need to wash your dog after a day of walking. The bedroom is the last room in the house, and it has dual aspect windows, one overlooking the burn and the other the waterfall, a perfect way to fall asleep with the natural sound of running water.
The grounds of the cottage are delightful, surrounded by beautiful trees and shrubs, there is a lovely wee walk up past the cottage, where you can sit outside watching the burn flow past, and if there’s been rain the waterfall will be in full flow too!
If you want a totally relaxed stay, Druimbhan is one of those places, the railway is less than 200 yards to the cottage, not like a town or city station, this one will only stop if you advise the guard, and if you wish to go to Mallaig or Fort William by train you will have to book in advance to let them know.
The Local Inn is just a couple of hundred yards walk from the cottage serving local food and drink from Easter to October if you want to stay close to the cottage. There is another pub but that is 9 miles away but you have to travel through some breath taking scenery to get there. Stunning white sandy beaches are to be found along the coastal road to Arisaig on the way to Mallaig. Mallaig is a wonderful, thriving fishing village where you can purchase freshly caught fish, you can also get the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry over to Armadale on the Isle of Skye. If you are driving, a nice route is to go over by ferry, tour around the island and return back to the cottage via the Skye bridge and Eilean Donan Castle. Definitely a place to go and relax, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and a place you will want to return time and time again.

This beautiful semi-detached, 19th-century farmhouse tastefully blends original features with contemporary style, offering space and comfort in a stunning rural setting. With wonderful views over the River Tay and rolling hills, this charming holiday cottage is on the edge of a steading conversion where ducks and geese swim on the old mill race. Newburgh village is a short stroll with shops, art gallery and dining pubs. Golf, fishing, cycling, motor racing and sky diving nearby. Visit Perth, 13 miles, St Andrews, 20 miles or just savour the peace. Within walking distance of the property is Lindores Abbey Distillery which offers tours. Shops and pubs ½ mile.

If you are looking for a peaceful stay surrounded by beautiful countryside and close to the bustling, historic town of St Andrews and one of the most stunning coastlines in Fife, then look no further. This delightful lodge can be found in a small resort set in over 100 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds with woodland walks. Tucked away in Fife’s stunning countryside and yet just a 5-minute drive from St Andrews.
Comprising of two bedrooms accommodating four guests, a bright and spacious open-plan living area with a fully equipped modern kitchen. Decorated throughout to a very good standard along with quality furnishings and bedding.
St. Andrews may be known principally for its championship golf courses, but this charming and historic town is also a wonderful place for holidays. It has a lovely old-world atmosphere that comes from its university and medieval buildings. In amongst the cobbled streets and narrow alley ways of the medieval town centre are plenty of shops, cafés and restaurants. Discover St. Andrew’s Castle, cathedral, and adjacent Church of St. Regulus, and climb the steps in the tower for magnificent views over the town. This is a coastal town with access to a wide sandy beach where you can stroll in the sand or indulge in some seal spotting, which can often be seen off this coast. Whether you are looking to tee off, bask in the royal history or explore the local wildlife, St. Andrews is definitely the place for you. Also, part of Fife’s Coastal Path where you will find picturesque fishing villages dotted along the coast. The Scottish Secret Bunker, The Deer Centre and the charming village of Falkland with its Palace and Gardens can all be reached in under 30-minute drive. Beach 5 miles.

Old Manse Cottage is a traditional Highland cottage that has been lovingly renovated to a very high standard to provide spacious, light and comfortable accommodation. Strolling through the green front door you enter the amazing open plan living space which is incredibly spacious and makes the most of original features. The space is triple aspect so there is a lot of natural light, including an outstanding window on the gable end of the building with a comfy window seat, inviting you to pass the time simply gazing out at the giant beech trees with a glass of your favourite drink in hand. The kitchen is a very generous size for a couple, and has everything you’ll want for a week-long holiday or short break in the winter. The dining table is an antique naval mapping table; lovely for cooking up a storm of multiple dishes and spreading out. The table is very well suited to those who may need to break out the laptop and do a bit of work. The living room space is centred around the wood burner, historic 18th-century stone fireplace, a comfy sofa and fireside chair, and a TV.
Beyond the living room space is the cute kingsize bedroom with an incredibly comfortable mattress and cosy down duvet. The bedroom has two windows overlooking the garden areas, a chest of drawers, wall hooks with hangers and a chair. Adjacent to the living room is a vestibule with coat hooks and room for hiking boots, next to the back door into the garden. The bathroom also flows from the vestibule and has been cleverly renovated to create a lovely space with a walk-in electric shower, sink, toilet and washing machine.
The garden is wraparound and enjoys a patio area with garden furniture and a bench beside the cottage rockery and grassed lawn. Soak up rural views across pasture and woodland and listen to the sounds of nature around the cottage, including many birds of prey which nest close by. The cottage welcomes one well behaved dog but please be aware the garden is not fully enclosed.
The cottage is full of history. It was built originally as a small croft in the late 17th century and formed part of the Laird of Cromartie’s estate at neighbouring Castle Leod. In 1792, the cottage became part of the manse (vicarage) next door. The cottage has been used in many different ways through the centuries, including as a kitchen and maid quarters to the main house in Victorian times, indicated by the huge stone fireplaces. In more recent decades it was the gardener’s cottage, with some fantastic local history from WW2 linked to it.
Walk straight from your back door across tracks and fields to Castle Leod, Strathpeffer village and Rogie Falls. Also in the garden is a shed, perfect for those wanting to store bicycles or other sports equipment.
Old Manse Cottage is tucked away in the Highlands of Scotland in a small hamlet called Fodderty, about 1-mile distance and a lovely walk from the spa town of Strathpeffer, with many local choices for eating and drinking. Just over 20 minutes from Inverness, the cottage is excellently located for those wanting to explore the Highlands with fantastic roads nearby connecting all corners of this amazing area, including Ullapool and the West Coast only 45 minutes away. This cottage is a Highland hidden gem.
Strathpeffer with a village shop, pharmacy, deli bistro and hotel bars only 1 mile away. Dingwall town with Tesco, Lidl, fuel, and many other local shops, only 4 miles. Extra logs for the woodburner can be purchased in Dingwall. A welcome guide in the cottage provides more details on services available locally. Inverness city centre is 25 minutes away by car with many restaurants and shops. The local bus (number 27) stops at the end of the cottage lane (hourly daytime service) to go into Strathpeffer, or Dingwall and Inverness.

Situated 200 yards from Loch Sunart in the bay of Camas Inas with access to a rocky beach and the cottages own mooring, this newly renovated cottage is perfectly situated to explore the Ardnamurchan Peninsula, the most westerly part of the UK. In the grounds of the cottage is a garage for storing kayaks, paddle boards and bicycles. It is just one minutes’ walk to the loch where you can swim or fish and have close up views of passing dolphins and otters. There is also horse riding, canoeing and water rafting locally as well as clay pigeon shooting.
The cottage is all on one level with five steps up to it with two bedrooms, one which can either be a double size bed or twin beds lounge bathroom and kitchen. A cot is available for babies.
The double glazing and central heating are complemented by an open fire (with fireguard) and a supply of logs provided. Designed to make you feel cosy and comfortable, the cottage is decorated to remind you of Victorian Scotland but has every modern comfort. There are lots of stunning hill and loch-side walks in the area with Castle Tioram being one of the most beautiful sights to see in Scotland. Glen Coe and Ben Nevis with skiing are not far but you can also take a short drive to pubs, award winning restaurants, cafe’s, distillery, or smokehouse to enjoy local produce of seafood or venison. Drive further down the Pensinsula to the award winning organic Ardnamurchan Distillery or to Kilchoan and the Ardnamurchan lighthouse and then take the ferry across to Mull and visit Tobermory and several fish restaurants all selling local fresh caught produce.
Nearby there is a post office and two general food shops. The fish man comes every Tuesday with freshly landed fish including langoustine and lobsters. Venison and organically grown vegetables can be bought locally. You can also order a delivery from a local supermarket in Fort William for basic supplies although there will be items like tea, bread, milk, eggs, and wine in a welcome hamper for you on arrival.
There is a local GP and the area has its own ambulance, coastguard, fire service and police on the peninsula.

Northfork Cottage is situated between Wick and John O’Groats, and enjoys a lovely position overlooking Sinclair’s Bay.
The sea view from the cottage is amazing and endlessly interesting. Beyond the paddocks in the foreground surrounding the cottage the Ackergill Links with Wick golf course is clearly visible. Beyond the dunes Reiss Sands stretches for nearly 3 miles along the shore of Sinclair’s Bay. Also, in view is Ackergill Tower, the remains of Castle Sinclair Birnigoe and Noss Head lighthouse. You’ll be mesmerised by the view throughout your entire stay.
Only a few miles out of Wick in Quoys of Reiss, you’re under a mile walk to Reiss Sands beach and the first tree of Wick golf club. This house would suit those wanting to be playing some high-quality links golf.
There are so many fascinating places to visit near to Northfork Cottage and the owner is incredibly well informed as well as willing to help direct you to both well-known sights and hidden gems.
Places you have to visit whilst staying at Northfork Cottage though include: John O’Groats, Duncansby Head, The Castle of Mey and Orkney. Orkney is only a short hop across the Pentland Firth, and as the owner will point out, by looking at Sinclair’s Bay you can tell if the crossing to Orkney will be good or best avoided.
The accommodation is geared up for the amazing view. Entering through the front door there’s a useful utility room. You then enjoy the open plan living/dining/kitchen. The living area has a fantastic large window in front of which you can sit in two comfortable chairs simply watching the amazing view. It’s honestly mesmerising! There’s also a Smart TV that rivals the size of the enormous window, so when you want to shift gaze, you have an excellent screen on which to fix.
There’s a double bedroom at the back of the cottage with a view out over paddocks to the interior of Caithness. There’s also a second living room come reading room that has a single futon for flexible sleeping arrangements. The accommodation is complete with a shower room.
It’s a great spot enjoy amazing views. And the owner is incredibly helpful to ensure you get the most out of your time visiting Caithness. Beach ¾ mile.