Dog Friendly Cottages in Argyll and Bute by the Sea

Dog Friendly Holidays in Argyll and Bute

Argyll and Bute covers a large part of Scotland’s west coast, so the type of holiday you can have varies considerably depending on where you stay. Around Oban there are coastal and woodland walks as well as ferry connections to the islands, while Kintyre has long stretches of coast and sandy beaches. The Isle of Bute and Mull give you another choice if you want to stay on an island.

There is no need to plan every day around a traditional resort beach. Argyll and Bute Council has 1,167 miles of designated Core Paths, alongside large areas of countryside covered by Scotland’s responsible access rights. These rights extend to activities including dog walking on most land and the foreshore, provided your dog is kept under proper control.

When choosing your cottage, check the individual property details for the number of dogs accepted and any additional pet charges.

Beaches to Explore with Your Dog

There are beaches scattered across the region rather than concentrated around one main resort. On Kintyre, choices include Machrihanish, Westport, Carradale and Torrisdale Bay. Further north and across the islands are Calgary Bay on Mull, Gott Bay on Tiree and beaches on Bute.

Scotland’s responsible access rights extend to beaches and the foreshore, but local guidance still needs to be followed. This is particularly important around dunes and places used by nesting birds. Dogs should be kept under close control where wildlife could be disturbed.

That gives you plenty of scope to choose a different part of the coast during your stay rather than returning to the same beach each day.

Coastal, Woodland and Lochside Walks

Walking is one of the most popular reasons to choose Argyll and Bute for a holiday with your dog. Routes range from short paths around villages and sea lochs to longer walks through forests and open countryside.

You can explore the Cowal Peninsula around Dunoon and Loch Eck, follow routes around Bute or use Oban as a starting point for walks around the mainland coast. Kintyre provides another large area to explore, with paths linking beaches, small settlements and more remote sections of coastline.

Dogs should always be kept in sight and under control. Around livestock, wildlife or other sensitive areas, use a lead where necessary and follow any local signs. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code also makes clear that dogs must not be allowed to worry farm animals or disturb wildlife.

For more places to stay with your dog around the country, browse our Scotland dog friendly beach cottages by the coast.