Dog Friendly Cottages in the Highlands by the Sea

Dog Friendly Holidays in the Scottish Highlands

One of the advantages of a Highland break is the amount of outdoor space available. Scotland’s access rights cover most beaches and coastline as well as hills, woods and many other areas of countryside, provided visitors follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Dogs are included within these access rights when kept under proper control.

On the west coast, places such as Achmelvich, Clachtoll and Mellon Udrigle combine sandy beaches with rugged coastal scenery. Further north, there are more beaches and walking routes around Durness and the north coast.

The east coast gives you a different type of break. Around Dornoch and the Moray Firth there are long sandy beaches, woodland and coastal paths, while Inverness provides easy access to walks around the Beauly and Moray Firths.

Beaches, Lochs and Forest Walks

A dog friendly holiday in the Highlands doesn’t need to revolve entirely around the coast. The region has forests, lochside paths and mountain trails, so you can choose walks to suit the weather and how far you want to go.

Scotland’s access rights apply to many of these areas, but having access doesn’t mean dogs can run freely everywhere. Around livestock, dogs should be kept on a short lead or close at heel and well away from the animals. The Outdoor Access Code also advises avoiding fields containing lambs, calves or other young farm animals.

During the main ground-nesting bird season, usually April to July, dogs should be kept on a short lead or close at heel in sensitive places such as moorland, woodland, grassland, loch shores and beaches.

Exploring the Highlands with Your Dog

The size of the Highlands means it is worth thinking about the type of holiday you want before choosing your cottage. The north-west coast suits visitors looking for remote beaches and coastal scenery, while the eastern Highlands provide easier access to towns such as Dornoch, Nairn and Inverness.

Inland, you can explore forests, glens and lochs, with walking routes ranging from short trails to full days in the hills. Wherever you go, keep your dog in sight and under control, follow local signs and take particular care around wildlife and livestock.

For more places to stay with your dog around the country, browse our Scotland dog friendly coastal cottages to rent.