Dog Friendly Self Catering, Cottages in the Cairngorms
The Cairngorms is one of Scotland’s most dog friendly regions. Our dog friendly self catering cottages welcome you and your four-legged companions. Enjoy forest walks, mountain trails, and scenic glens, then relax at your cosy Highland retreat.
Want to let your four legged friend run completely free without the worry of farm animals or wildlife? Read our Guide to Aviemore’s Secure Dog Fields here.
Fersit Log Cottage - Lochaber, Highlands
Sleeps 4 - 2 Bedroom - 1 Bathroom
Escape to Fersit Log Cottage: dog-friendly retreat with log fire, hot tub, EV charger, nestled in a peaceful rural setting near Ben Nevis and Munros.
Ardchoile - Kingussie, Highlands
Sleeps 10 - 4 Bedroom - 2 Bathroom
Discover Ardchoile: spacious, dog-friendly retreat with log fire, hot tub, and stunning mountain views, just minutes from local shops, restaurants, and scenic surroundings.
St. Vincent’s - Kingussie, Highlands
Sleeps 6 - 3 Bedroom - 3 Bathroom
Relax at St Vincent’s: modern, spacious, dog-friendly retreat with log fire, private parking, just a short stroll to shops, restaurants, and scenic walking or cycling trails.
Birch Cottage - Balgowan, Newtonmore, Highlands
Sleeps 4 - 2 Bedroom - 1.5 Bathroom
Relax at Birch Cottage: dog-friendly rural retreat with log fire, private parking, and easy access to local attractions—perfect for a peaceful getaway in the rural Highlands
Explore our collection of self catering cottages in the Scottish Highlands.
Popular Dog Walks in the Cairngorms
The Cairngorms National Park is a fantastic destination for dog-friendly holidays, with miles of scenic trails, forests and loch side paths to explore.
In Kingussie, the Gynack Mill Trail is a popular 2.3km woodland walk that takes around an hour and passes through beautiful woodland and alongside Loch Gynack. For more adventurous dogs and owners, Creag Bheag offers a challenging 5.5km hill walk with rewarding views across Badenoch. The walk to Ruthven Barracks follows mostly flat riverside paths and is perfect for a more relaxed outing.
Newtonmore also offers excellent dog walking opportunities, including the peaceful Loch Imrich Loop, a gentle 15-minute walk suitable for all abilities, as well as many other local trails and woodland routes.
For longer adventures, Loch Morlich is one of the Cairngorms' most popular walking destinations, with beautiful forest paths and stunning loch side scenery.
When exploring the Cairngorms with your dog, please keep them under close control and on a lead around livestock and ground-nesting birds to help protect local wildlife and farming communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Cairngorms National Park good for dog-friendly holidays?
Yes, the Cairngorms National Park is one of the most dog-friendly destinations in Scotland. With forest trails, mountain paths, Loch side walks and open countryside, there are endless opportunities to explore with your dog. The majority of cafes, restaurants, shops and pubs are dog friendly.
What can I do with my dog in the Cairngorms?
The Cairngorms offer a wide range of dog-friendly activities, including walking in Glenmore Forest, visiting Loch Morlich, exploring woodland trails around Kingussie and Newtonmore, and enjoying many dog-friendly cafés and attractions throughout the region.
Why choose a dog-friendly self catering cottage?
A dog-friendly self catering cottage gives you the freedom to holiday with your pet while enjoying the comfort and privacy of your own accommodation. Many cottages are ideally located close to walking routes and outdoor spaces.
Are there dog-friendly cottages near Aviemore and Kingussie?
Yes, our collection includes dog-friendly cottages within easy reach of Aviemore, Kingussie, Newtonmore and other popular locations throughout the Cairngorms National Park.
What is the best time of year to visit the Cairngorms with a dog?
The Cairngorms can be enjoyed throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for longer walks and outdoor adventures, while autumn and winter offer quieter trails, beautiful scenery and cosy cottage breaks.
Are the Cairngorms suitable for active dogs?
Absolutely. The Cairngorms are perfect for active dogs, with miles of walking routes, forest tracks, mountain trails and open countryside to explore alongside their owners.
Explore More Highland Stays
Relax and unwind in one of our Highland self catering cottages with private hot tubs. Ideal for romantic escapes, family breaks or luxurious getaways, all set amidst Scotland’s stunning landscapes and serene surroundings.
Discover family friendly cottages across the Highlands. Spacious, comfortable and perfectly located for exploring Scotland’s mountains, lochs and trails. Offering memorable experiences for both children and adults.
Enjoy a cosy winter escape in the Highlands. Handpicked cottages provide warmth, comfort and easy access to festive activities, snowy adventures and relaxing short breaks throughout the season.