Dog-Friendly Scottish Highlands

In the picturesque village of Fort Augustus, next to the Caledonian Canal and a short walk from the head of Loch Ness, this ground floor holiday apartment makes an ideal base from which to tour the Highlands. The area hosts a large number of outdoor activities including mountain biking, hillwalking, golf, fishing, horse riding, kayaking and windsurfing. As Ardgay is a corporate member of Fort Augustus golf club, guests are entitled to as many free rounds of golf that they would like. Walk or cycle from the door along the canal towpath, or sit and watch the boats trying to negotiate the locks. Take a boat trip on Loch Ness to hunt for the Loch Ness Monster, drive through dramatic Highland scenery, visit historic castles and explore remote magical glens. Wildlife is abundant with golden eagles, wild deer and otters often seen. Inverness, the ‘Highland Capital’, Fort William, the ‘Outdoor Capital’ of the UK, and the beautiful Isle of Skye are easily reached. Shop, pub and restaurant 400 yards.

Welcome to Pinewood, your idyllic holiday retreat nestled in the heart of the enchanting Highlands, where tranquillity meets adventure. Located in the picturesque Gairlochy Bay, this haven offers an immersive escape into the stunning natural beauty of Scotland.
Gairlochy Bay, with its rugged charm and breathtaking landscapes, invites you to embark on a journey of exploration and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the rich history and folklore of the Highlands as you traverse the nearby historic trails and ancient woodlands. Unwind with leisurely strolls along the shores of Loch Lochy, where the crisp Highland air mixes with the soothing sound of lapping waves. Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the diverse wildlife that inhabits Gairlochy Bay. From red deer roaming the hillsides to elusive otters gliding through the water, every moment promises a glimpse of the untamed beauty of the Highlands. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of avian residents, including majestic eagles soaring overhead.
For those seeking a touch of adventure, Gairlochy Bay offers an array of outdoor activities. Set sail on the loch’s pristine waters for a day of fishing or simply enjoy a leisurely cruise, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Hikers and cyclists can explore the network of trails that wind through the heather-covered hills, revealing hidden gems and breathtaking vistas. As the day ends, immerse yourself in the warmth of Highland hospitality by visiting the local pubs and eateries. Indulge in traditional Scottish cuisine and savour the flavours of the region, all while enjoying the company of friendly locals.
Pinewood in Gairlochy Bay invites you to create lasting memories amid the natural wonders of the Highlands. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this holiday retreat promises an unforgettable experience in one of Scotland’s most captivating destinations.

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.

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 attractive, single-storey holiday cottage was formerly the forester’s cottage on a Highland country estate. Situated close to a hamlet it provides attractive accommodation in a quiet setting. There are woodland and riverside walks leading down to the shores of the Cromarty Firth, home of a large colony of seals. Easy access to the Black Isle with its pretty fishing villages and attractive coastline. Golf is only 5½ miles away and you will also find fishing, hill walking, mountain biking and numerous water sports all available in the area.

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.

Phil’s House (ref SUUR), an architect designed, eco-friendly, single-storey house and Reid’s Cottage (ref UYT), a bright and cosy Highland croft house, enjoy an elevated position with panoramic views over the village of Lairg, waters of the Loch Shin and towards the hills beyond. Furnished and equipped to very high standards, they ensure a comfortable and pleasant holiday in this lovely part of the Highlands. Activities include mountain biking in the forest trails, fishing and stalking (by prior arrangement), hill walking or kayaking on the lochs and rivers. Golf courses nearby. For the less energetic, just relax in the comfort of the house and watch the ever changing scenery. Shops and pubs 1/4 mile.

Situated on the shores of the beautiful river Ewe, The Narrows is a bright, detached holiday cottage. Set in its own private and secluded gardens, it offers peace and tranquillity in a stunning setting. The Narrows is situated just off the picturesque North Coast 500 route, on one of the most scenic parts of this renowned and stunning coastal route. There are superb walks direct from the cottage along the riverbank and through the surrounding hills. The immediate area is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise. Whales, dolphins, sea eagles and otters are all seen close by, and Pine Martin visit the picnic table just outside the window. Warmed by the Gulf Stream, this unique part of west coast Highlands enjoys a mild climate and is scenic and totally unspoilt. The sub-tropical gardens of Inverewe, just 5 minutes’ drive away, bear testament to this. Golf, fishing, cycling, hill walking, sailing and canoeing are all local pastimes. With wonderful sandy beaches, bays and islands this is an ideal location for visitors and a real get-away-from- it-all holiday. Beach 5 miles. Shop and pub 1 mile.

"River views and a wealth of glorious countryside combine to make this a wonderful setting for lovers of the great outdoors..."


Perfect for a relaxing break, Ness Castle Estate lies in the heart of magnificent game fishing and golfing country, and with lovely walking on the doorstep, it is an ideal location for nature lovers and sporting enthusiasts alike. River Lodge (ref SYYA) is a magnificent, detached, ‘Colorado’-style lodge providing complete relaxation and seclusion for larger parties. For smaller parties, Weir Cottage (ref SXXS) and Red Squirrel Lodge (ref SYYB) are single storey and adjoin one another, whilst spacious Ghillie’s Lodge (ref SYYC) and Benula Lodge (ref SYYM) stand detached. All have river views and are just minutes away from the city of Inverness.
Your Ness Castle Lodges experience can be augmented with personalised beauty treatments with their specially appointed therapist. Take time out to enjoy a full day of pampering, or book a morning session to set you up for the day. From facials and Swedish massage to relaxation techniques, eyelash tinting and more treatments like Hopi Ear Candles, a spa session - or two! More information on what’s on offer is available on arrival.
Culloden Battlefield, Cawdor Castle, Loch Ness cruises and dolphin spotting on the Moray Firth are among the myriad of delights within easy reach. For those wishing to explore a little further afield the magical Isle of Skye, visiting the beautiful, romantic Eilean Donan Castle on the way, or a leisurely boat trip to the Orkney Isles which offer beautiful, rugged scenery with an abundance of wildlife and many archaeological sites make great days out. Whisky lovers can visit one of the many distilleries on the famous Strathspey Whisky Trail, sampling some of the finest whiskies in Scotland. At nearby Inverness, visitors will find a wealth of historic and cultural attractions as well as good shopping, bars and restaurants. Salmon fishing, by arrangement is 1 mile. For those wishing to explore a little further, day trips to the Orkney Isles, Isle of Skye and Glencoe are possible. Beach 16 miles. Shop 1 mile, pub 2½ miles.

Set on the fringes of Aviemore village, a wonderful location for enjoying the great outdoors in the heart of the Cairngorm National Park, these superbly appointed and beautifully furnished properties offer a very high degree of comfort. Sitting in a quiet cul de sac, they are ideal for family gatherings. All of the four properties (refs S4401, S4402, S4615 and S4538) enjoy their own private hot tub (each for 4 people) and S4401, S4402 and S4538 have a digital, infrared sauna with music and colour system, Freeview TVs and hairdryers in all bedrooms. Aviemore is a renowned centre for outdoor pursuits – excellent climbing and hill walking, competition standard mountain bike tracks, water sports on Lochs Morlich and Insch and, of course, skiing and snow boarding in season are just some of the activities on offer. The fishing and golf are similarly excellent, with trout fishing available all year at Rothiemurchus Estate, 2 miles, or hire equipment (at cost, licence required) for salmon fishing at the River Spey (seasonal). Sled dog rides, train trips to the resort at the top of the mountain, and the Strathspey steam railway are also found here and Britain’s only freely roaming reindeer herd can be spotted against the stunning backdrop of Glenmore. Shops, good restaurants, themed bars, live music are all within ½ mile. Other great attractions in the area are The Highland Wildlife Centre with Amur tigers, wolves and polar bear, The Landmark Centre, Tree Zone; an incredible aerial adventure and Aviemore Highland Resort Leisure Centre with its own wavepool, water slides and cinema.