Dog-Friendly Scottish Highlands

The Birches is a spacious, modern, single-storey cottage surrounded by large gardens. It is set in mature birch woodland and enjoys uninterrupted views over open countryside. This unique cottage was built by the owners to their own design and all the rooms are light, bright and welcoming. The main living area is open plan with the living room and kitchen areas divided by a feature low brick wall, and both look out across the delightful lawned gardens, which are fully enclosed and ideal for children and pets. There is a separate dining room, and a second living room with comfortable sofas making an ideal room for a quiet drink or planning the next day’s excursion. The bedrooms are all very attractively presented, with colour co-ordinated soft furnishings. With an en-suite shower room and a large family bathroom, The Birches is ideal for families, couples and groups alike.
The cottage is situated in Ardclach, a small hamlet in rural Nairnshire, only 7 miles from the renowned seaside town of Nairn. Many of the properties are tucked away down their own drives, surrounded by woodland and the occasional loch, offering peace and seclusion, yet within a short distance of all amenities. For wildlife enthusiasts there is plenty to see. Deer, pine marten and rare birds, including woodpeckers are regularly spotted. Golf, cycling, country walking and fishing are all local pastimes and there is a stocked fishing loch just ½ mile along the lane. There are numerous places of interest within close proximity in this beautiful area of Highland Scotland. Nairn has two stunning long sandy beaches, set against a backdrop of the attractive promenade, with its distinctive Victorian bandstand. The traditional harbour area is well worth a visit and a boat trip is likely to result in a close encounter with the famous resident bottle nosed dolphins that are frequently spotted close to shore. Within a short drive are Cawdor Castle, Culloden battlefield and a large nature reserve that runs along this superb coastline. Inverness, the capital city of the Highlands is just 30-minute drive away. Beach 7 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 7 miles.

Lairg is known as the crossroads of the north, making it a perfect place to base yourself to explore this wild part of the Scottish Highlands. Fair View is about a mile out of Lairg up on more open ground which is spectacular at any time of the year. The bungalow is very spacious and upon entering you’re led to the large farmhouse-style kitchen/dining room, with a useful island counter. The large dining table looks out over the expansive landscapes surrounding the property. A double door leads from the kitchen/dining room through to the enormous double-aspect living room which has an open fire and large TV. All four bedrooms are an excellent size and have great views of this wonderful area.
The sky seems enormous and is recognised as a European Dark Sky because of a distinct lack of light pollution. Stargazing with the added bonus of the Aurora Borealis makes it an even more attractive base. There’s wildlife all around with a huge array of birds throughout the year, as well as red deer, pine martens and the elusive wild cat. The area is a perfect place to base yourself to explore this wild part of the Scottish Highlands.
You can cover a huge amount of the North Coast 500 touring road from here by travelling out to different parts of the coastline using the great roads that lead off to the east, north, north west and west coast sections. It’s great to be able to see the route, being able to base yourself in just one place.
The town itself is beautifully situated at the eastern end of Loch Shin, plus it offers the amenities you will need during your stay. Lairg and Fair View are an excellent choice for a base to explore this otherworldly part of the Scottish Highlands. Beach 15 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.

Welcome to Chestnut Cottage, a charming retreat nestled in the heart of Corpach, a picturesque village in the enchanting Highlands of Scotland. This idyllic holiday let promises an immersive escape into the natural beauty and rich cultural tapestry of this region.
Corpach, surrounded by majestic mountains and serene lochs, provides an ideal setting for those seeking a tranquil yet adventurous holiday. With its breathtaking landscapes and proximity to iconic attractions, guests at Chestnut Cottage are in for an unforgettable experience. Nature enthusiasts will revel in the myriad outdoor activities available just beyond the doorstep. Embark on invigorating hikes along the Great Glen Way, where panoramic views of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak, await intrepid explorers. For a more leisurely adventure, stroll along the Caledonian Canal towpath, soaking in the serene ambiance and watching boats navigate the locks.
History comes alive in Corpach, with its roots deeply embedded in the past. Visit the poignant Commando Memorial, a tribute to the soldiers who trained in the nearby hills during World War II. Explore the nearby Old Inverlochy Castle, a medieval fortress with a storied past, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s rich heritage. Corpach’s strategic location also makes it a gateway to the mystical Isle of Skye and the renowned Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films. Guests can embark on scenic drives through glens and glades, discovering hidden gems and enjoying the warm hospitality of charming local pubs and eateries.
Whether you seek adventure in the great outdoors, a cultural journey through history, or simply a peaceful escape surrounded by nature’s wonders, Chestnut Cottage in Corpach provides an unrivalled base for an enchanting Highland holiday. Immerse yourself in the magic of this captivating destination and create memories that will last a lifetime.

This beautifully finished, detached, Highland lodge is situated almost exactly in the central point of Scotland; a monument marking the point is just a short walk down the lane. The Den is perfectly located to explore the Cairngorms National Park, but because it is so central in the Highlands and the country, there are also amazing sights to see within a short drive. Ben Nevis lies to the west, whilst Inverness and the Black Isle are to the east.
The Den is set in a lovely, quiet site with space all around and views of the Cairngorms. It is less than ¾ mile from the A9, and is very conveniently located for a short break to explore this amazing part of Scotland, maybe as part of a larger tour. Arriving at The Den, you will be immediately pleased with its location and how it has been finished. Its spacious, open plan layout has been decorated beautifully, and has an enormous amount of light flooding in. A patio door leads out onto the large decking area, which has an excellent aspect of the mountains. It is the perfect spot to sit in with a glass of wine in the evening. The site has a lot of shared space to explore with children, including a large play area. It is also a great site for dogs because there are many walks to explore right from the doorstep. If you have your own horse, stabling is available by direct arrangement with the owner, who lives on the adjacent farm. The village of Newtonmore is only a few miles away with pubs and restaurants, as well as a supermarket. Shop 4 miles, pub and restaurant 3 miles.
The Den can be booked together with Cruachan (UK13683) to accommodate up to 10 guests.

Balloan Farm Cottage is a stunning, two bedroom detached holiday home situated in a rural location, yet only 1¾ miles from the popular town of Lairg. The cottage was renovated in 2020 to a very good standard.
On entering the cottage, you will find a reception hall, master en-suite bedroom, formal lounge with comfortable seating and a wood burner, dining room, kitchen with a superb level of appliances, and a conservatory with a second wood burner.
On the first floor there is a snug with beanbags, a second bedroom with twin beds, and a separate bathroom. Outside there is a private enclosed garden, ideal for your four legged friends, and a private driveway with parking.
The immediate area is heaven for outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of the great outdoors generally. Hill-walking, climbing, canoeing, kayaking and sailing can all be found locally. There is a thriving pony trekking centre locally, where you can hire ponies, and ride amidst spectacular scenery. Fishing in the surrounding lochs and rivers, as well as sea fishing, is a popular pastime. The area is also a haven for wildlife, with seals and otters in the bay, and numerous varieties of birds attracted to the region. For the golfers in the party, why not go to Dornoch which is only 18½ miles drive away and has many nearby golf courses including Royal Dornoch.
The beaches in this area are renowned, with Sandwood bay particularly noted, as it has a wonderful walk across the machair, to its secluded sweeping sands. The nearby town of Lairg offers a host of shops, restaurants and you will find historical buildings scattered throughout the area. The cottage is an ideal base for exploring the North Coast 500. Beach 19 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 3¼ miles.

Fionn Croft Lodge is a contemporary, architect designed, eco-friendly lodge situated in a stunning location on the renowned west coast. This impressive two-storey wooden lodge, with a unique ‘boat-end feature’ is light, airy and spacious, providing a high standard of accommodation in a wonderful setting.
The main living area on the ground floor is open plan with floor to ceiling, triple glazed windows looking out across the 2-acre grounds to the sea beyond. This spacious room is an ideal spot to sit and enjoy the stunning sunsets, and watch for local wildlife. Whales, dolphins, otters and a wide variety of seabirds are seen close by. A large wood burner offers a warm welcoming ambience and also provides the main heating for the house. The kitchen is partially separated just off the dining area. It is extremely well-equipped throughout, with two ovens and even a coffee making machine. There is a double bedroom on the ground floor and a spacious shower room. The main bedroom on the first floor is truly superb. It has floor to ceiling windows looking out across the sea to the Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides. There is a third twin room and a family sized shower room on this floor too.
The lodge is situated on a small working croft in the remote and pretty hamlet of Melvaig. It is the last habitation on a dramatic road that leads from Gairloch to the Rubha Reidh Lighthouse, following the coast along the way. Three miles along the road ends at the north headland, where there is a lovely walk out from the lighthouse, and the chance to spot rare white tailed eagles and other local wildlife. There is plenty to see and do in the immediate area and for water sports enthusiasts, there is a small slipway in Melvaig to launch kayaks and small crafts. The nearby village of Gairloch, just 15 minutes’ drive away, has a good selection of amenities including shops, restaurants, bars, boat trips, fishing trips, golf course and an interesting local museum. With stunning sandy beaches, hill-walking, sailing, cycling, fishing and wonderful wildlife, Fionn Croft Lodge provides an ideal base for a truly memorable Highland holiday. Beach 100 yards. Shop, pub and restaurant 9 miles.

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.

Allt Beag (Gaelic for ’little streams’) is a bright, detached, architect-designed house perched on the edge of Loch Kishorn in the pretty village of Achintraid, in the heart of the north west Highlands. It is set in its own grounds and enjoys stunning views across the sea loch to the hills beyond. The main living area is open-plan, with high vaulted ceilings and a large welcoming wood burner. Sliding patio doors open onto a decked area with picnic table and chairs; a superb spot to sit and drink in the wonderful surroundings. A small snug on the ground floor with a piano and wall-mounted maps of the local area provides a quiet space to relax in and plan the next day’s trip. There are two double bedrooms on the ground floor, one en-suite, and a family bathroom. Stairs lead up to two further bedrooms, with twin and single beds. All bedrooms are attractively presented and possess the same superb views. The rural country gardens surround the house and contain grassy slopes, small ditches and wild flowers and trees, which are a haven for wildlife.
The immediate area is renowned for the wildlife. Otters, eagles, seals and deer are all seen in the locality. There are spectacular views to the Bealach na Bà, one of the highest passes in Britain, whilst a visit to nearby Applecross via this amazing road is a must. There is a wealth of activities available in the area, including climbing, hill walking, cycling, horse riding, sailing and kayaking. Sandy beaches, small coves and beautiful mountain ranges make up the terrain in this remote and wild region. The nearby village of Lochcarron, just 6 miles away, provides a good selection of facilities, including small shops, a pub, cafés and restaurants, as well as a golf course open to visitors. Beach 200 yards. Shop and pub 6 miles, restaurant 2 miles.

Set in open countryside, above the charming seaside village of Portmahomack, Sheaf Dale is a beautifully presented cottage with a private hot tub in the gardens and a rear gated parking area, ideal for trailers with canoes, bicycles or other equipment. This single-storey, terraced, whitewashed stone cottage is tucked away along a quiet lane on the owner’s working arable and sheep farm. It has been painstakingly restored and renovated throughout and provides a good standard of accommodation in a peaceful yet accessible location. The large, airy living room looks out across the fields, and there is a spacious, well-equipped kitchen/dining room, with plenty of room for up to six guests. The master bedroom features a super kingsize bed and a wall-mounted TV, and both the double bedroom and the bunk bedroom are superbly presented with colour-coordinated soft furnishings. Exposed stone walls and large canvases of the local area add to the property’s charm. There is a secluded lawned garden with a sandstone patio area that leads down to the feature hot tub, making this an ideal property for couples, honeymooners and families wishing to have a relaxing, pampering holiday.

The picturesque seaside village of Portmahomack is just 1 mile away, with its sweeping sandy beach and stunning mountain backdrop, it is a superb spot to walk, picnic, swim or kayak. There is a small harbour with a pier, ideal for a spot of crabbing or fishing. The village has a good selection of amenities, including a shop, pub and café, as well as a renowned seafood restaurant. A traditional links golf course, Tarbat Golf Club which is open to visitors, is just a short walk away and there are numerous other renowned golf courses in the area including Royal Dornoch and Tain Golf Course which looks across the Dornoch Firth to Dornoch. The region is renowned for its archaeological sites and at the nearby Tarbat Discovery Centre there is a fascinating display of Pict, Norse and Medieval artefacts. Within a 10-minute drive lies the Royal Burgh of Tain, established as a Royal Burgh in 1066, and the Tain Museum houses the famous original Tain Silver Collection. Predominantly built out of local sandstone, Tain is a charming historic town which offers an excellent selection of small shops, restaurants, cafés and pubs, as well as a wide variety of sporting and recreational facilities. Nearby places of interest include the whisky distillery centre, home of the famous Glenmorangie Distillery where you can take a tour and sample the single malt, the famous Falls of Shin, one of the few places to see salmon leaping close to hand, and the enchanting town of Dornoch, with its magnificent cathedral, sandy beach and championship golf course.

This lovely cottage is ideally located for exploring the whole of the Highland region. When you return at the end of the day, relax in the hot tub whilst you drink in the uninterrupted views across the countryside to the sea beyond. Beach 1 mile. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.
Sheaf Dale can be booked together with The Paddock (UK5049) and Grieve’s Cottage (UK12250) to accommodate up to 15 guests.

Red Kite Lodge is a real delight, situated in the heart of the Sutherland hills on a working farm, approached via a well-maintained private track leading out to open countryside and the owner’s 50 hectares of croft land. This detached, solid wood lodge enjoying complete peace and seclusion, is presented to a very good standard throughout. The main living area is open plan with a welcoming wood burner and floor to ceiling patio doors to maximise the stunning views. The patio doors open onto raised decking, with a private hot tub and outdoor dining table and chairs. The bright, modern kitchen area is exceptionally well equipped, with plenty of space for dining. The bespoke, solid wood, raised dining table adds an interesting and attractive feature to the room. There are two beautifully presented kingsize bedrooms each with colour coordinated soft furnishings. 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.

This property is ideal for the ultimate ’get away from it all’ holiday, with pampering included. Sitting in the hot tub or relaxing with a glass of wine on the decking after a day’s sightseeing or hill walking must be the ultimate holiday experience.

The owners farm hundreds of acres of surrounding farmland and open hills where friendly cattle and sheep roam freely, and osprey, deer, pine martens, red kites, golden eagles and curlews can all be spotted in the vicinity. Whilst providing an element of privacy, the lodge is just over 1 mile to the pretty village of Rogart. It has 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. 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 there is a superb, award-winning, sandy beach, a renowned championship golf course as well as the 12th-century cathedral that dominates the central square. Beach 15 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1½ miles.