Scotland is arguably one of the most dog friendly destinations in the UK. The Cairngorms National Park offers numerous walking opportunities from forest trails, mountain climbs and sandy beaches. Explore the 7 miles of trails in the pinewoods at Anagach near Grantown-on-Spey or the ancient Caledonian Pine Forest at Rothiemurchus just outside Aviemore. The 8 mile loop around Loch Muick is relatively flat whilst the more adventurous hikers and four legged friends might like to try their hand at bagging some of the Munros including Lochnagar and Broad Cairn. Loch Morlich has a sandy beach where dogs can enjoy a paddle all year round. You can even take your dog out on a rowing boat or canoe at Loch Morlich Watersports.
Other popular dog friendly beaches include the 14 miles of flat sand and dunes at Balmedie Beach in Aberdeenshire, the golden sands of Lunan Bay in Angus, the turquoise waters of Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris or white sand and rock pools at Nairn Beach in Highland.
For a day of history and heritage there are numerous castles where dogs are welcome in the gardens and wider estates. Scone Palace in Perthshire and Culzean Castle and Country Park in Ayrshire have extensive grounds to explore. And if you are staying in Fife a visit to Lindores Abbey Distillery is a must for any whiskey lovers. Well behaved dogs are welcome to join you on a tour and they have even laid extra flooring to ensure the stillroom floor doesn’t hurt their paws.
Browse our selection of dog friendly cottages to start planning your next Scottish adventure!
