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Top 5 dog-friendly holiday cottages in Scotland holiday cottages

Top 5 dog-friendly holiday cottages in Scotland

Kate W 02 August 2019

Holidays are always more fun with your canine companion by your side, so don’t leave your dog behind when you’re booking your getaway to Scotland.

Dogs make walks fun, even when caked up to the ears in mud, and they also provide wonderful company whether your holiday home is quiet and peaceful or full of commotion. Scotland is just one big adventure playground for dogs, but there are definitely areas which are more remote and wild for them to run free. Head to the east coast where the beaches are massive or to the Highlands with its impressive hills and woodland to explore. Wherever you go, the pooch will have a blast!

Dog and owner

We all know there are many perks to having a dog, so we are proud to offer a wide range of dog-friendly accommodation for you to choose from. A holiday without the dog by your side just isn’t the same, so we’ve picked out three top dog-friendly holiday cottages to provide you with some holiday inspiration. If you are looking for an even wider choice, browse through our full range of dog-friendly accommodation in Scotland.


A luxury dog-friendly cottage in the Scottish Highlands

The Shell at Ardtur | Sleeps 10 | Argyll & Bute, Scotland | ๐Ÿ•๐Ÿ•

Your family, including canine companion (of course), would love The Shell at Ardtur. In fact, your extended family and their canine would fit too, for this delightfully presented house sleeps ten humans and your four-legged friend. 

The Shell at Ardtur 

Why it’s great for dogs:

On your return to the house after a playful day out, the paved terrace provides a comfortable spot for those all-too-rare snoozes in the sun, with the huge glass-fronted sitting room capturing the sun’s rays so you can still enjoy the warmth even when there is an autumnal chill in the air. The central log burner is the ideal place to rest and recuperate after a day of excitement; the cloakroom makes for the perfect for a cosy, canine bed.

Extra dog points: 

  • Exploring the local beach which is perfect for relaxed or energetic strolls, ball games and – if they are feeling brave – a dip in the sea.
  • The tree-lined private driveway offers a lovely rainy-day substitute location for a dog walk.
  • The local bike hire close by means you can pick up the pace and turn a walk into a run. The cycle track between Glencoe and Oban can be reached by crossing the Jubilee footbridge and boardwalk over the tidal marshes – the dogs will love it.


A dog-friendly cottage by the sea

Old Fishing Station | Sleeps 2 | Badachro, Highlands | ๐Ÿ•

How many chances do you have to stay on your own island off the west coast of Scotland? The Old Curing station is a cool holiday cottage in a private setting with amazing views which will be hard to forget. Sleeping two, it has its own private walkway to the mainland and a hot tub which you can spend lazy evenings in enjoying this magical location. This is a beautiful remote place for you and the pooch to enjoy a Scottish break.

Why it’s great for dogs

Being surrounded by a nice section of lawn and set close to the water's edge, this is a dog's dream with plenty of space to stretch the legs and make a splash. The hot tub is set on a stylish decking area where the dog can keep an eye out whilst you kick back and relax, and the outdoor eating area has great views which you can all enjoy.

Extra dog points:

  • There is a lovely open-plan living space which lends itself well to being sociable with the humans. The wood burner makes for a cosy place to sleep after fun days out.
  • A whole island to explore with woodland, mini beaches, and lots of nature to enjoy.
  • Exploring the coastline could not be easier, being set close by to Gairloch, Poolewe and Ullapool with plenty of beaches and dog-friendly places to eat and drink.

A dog-friendly stay in a Scottish castle

Grants of Freuchie Castle | Sleeps 10 | Dulnain Bridge, Highlands | ๐Ÿ•๐Ÿ•

This castle fits many clichés of a fairytale castle – tall in structure and picturesque in appearance, with its elegant small windows and magical turrets and its countryside woodland setting. Having been lovingly restored, this 16th-century castle has been tastefully transformed to offer sophisticated and stylish holiday accommodation in the Highlands of Scotland. Welcoming two dogs, you can all have a wonderful experience whilst staying in this historic hidden gem.

Why it’s great for dogs:

This castle is set off the main road into Dulnain Bridge, but sits far enough back that it has a good bit of ground around it for the dogs to run around in. There are remainders of outbuildings which have been purposefully left to honour the past, and these make for great obstacles for the dogs to jump over or sit on and enjoy the sunshine. Surrounding the castle, there are plenty of hill and fields to explore and woodland walks which will keep them busy for hours.

Extra dog points:

  • The castle is beautifully decorated throughout and the stone staircase will alone offer plenty of exercise for your fluffy friend!
  • There is a stunning sunroom with doors that open onto the garden which gives them easy access to their outdoor playground.
  • There is a lovely big fireplace in the main sitting room which will offer the perfect snoozing area for those tired dogs who have been out exploring all day.

For more ideas on how to make the most of your pet-friendly break read our ulitmate guide to dog-friendly holidays in Scotland.

Holiday checklist for you and your dog

Holidaying with your dog can be easy, provided you have the space and comfort to do it in, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your dog is welcome too.

Dog holiday checklist

Every puppy parent knows should be prepared for their dog-friendly holiday to Scotland with the following items:

  • Dog bed – we all know that you get a better night’s sleep in your own bed.
  • Dog food – these cottages are self-catering after all.
  • Dog bowl – this can make or break a meal;, you get used to your own things.
  • Poo bags – yup, self-explanatory.
  • Dog towel – there is nothing more essential after a long, wet, muddy, sandy, slobbery, exuberant walk! 

Dog-friendly cottages in Scotland

Enjoy dog-friendly holidays in Scotland

Dogs are great companions and help you to appreciate the simple pleasures, which is exactly what holidays are all about! Gone are the days you need to leave them in a kennel; everyone can enjoy a Scottish break with our great collection of self-catering cottages.

For more ideas on locations, check out our guides on the best dog-friendly beaches and our guide to some great dog walks in Scotland.

Take a look through our full collection of dog-friendly holiday cottages in Scotland and find the perfect holiday home for your pet-friendly getaway.


Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.

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