Dog Friendly Holidays Argyll and Bute

Ideal for a romantic couple’s getaway, or an active sea-based adventure, Eider Cottage is a recently refurbished cottage, beautifully decorated to a high standard, set close to the shores of Loch Craignish in the village of Ardfern and only 25 minutes from Oban with all its shops, bars and ferry terminal linking to the Outer and Inner Hebrides and the mystical Island of Iona. Close to the shore, surrounded by nature, yet close to the village amenities, Eider Cottage is an ideal location for a nature lover’s relaxing break or an active land/water-based holiday.
Completed in 2021, the open plan living space with well equipped kitchen provides the perfect setting for a great holiday complemented by a spacious bedroom with cosy kingsize bed and a contemporary bathroom with large walk-in shower. Dining outside will be a delight on the south-facing decking overlooking Loch Craignish. The shores of Loch Craignish are a stone’s throw from the cottage, where you will enjoy exploring the peaceful sheltered waters of the Lagoon. A very popular area for kayakers and canoeists, Loch Craignish is the ideal base for touring Argyll and the surrounding Islands. Perfect for hillwalkers and nature lovers and a short distance from the famous Kintyre Way Walk. As Loch Craignish is a sea loch, there is an abundance of wildlife in the surrounding area including an array of sea birds and seals.
Close by, in Ardfern village, there is a friendly village pub and restaurant, café and takeaway, gift shop, marina with chandlery, well-stocked village shop and post office. Locally within a few minutes’ drive or walk, many activities are offered including riding, sailing, canoeing, fresh water, and sea fishing as well as walks and boat excursions. Right on your doorstep and within 7 miles of Ardfern is the renowned Kilmartin Glen and its impressive offering of pre-historic sites, including castles, standing stones, burial cairns, hill forts and Kilmartin Museum. Also, right next door is the Moine Mhor, a lowland raised bog of international importance, a rugged and beautiful landscape that is the wild heartland of Kilmartin Glen with the ancient hill fort of Dunadd is just short distance further towards Lochgilphead.
Wildlife includes many woodland birds and birds of prey, beavers, red squirrels, red and roe deer, seals, otters, and pine martins. Fresh Seafood abounds in the many delightful eating places scattered around the area, where local produce proudly served and deliciously presented. A 16-mile drive takes you to the local country town of Lochgilphead, which has a variety of specialist shops, cafés and restaurants, a swimming pool, golf course and sports centre. Offering a great day out after a scenic 25-mile drive north is the bustling port town of Oban, the Gateway to the Isles, with plenty to do also in Inveraray, the capital of Argyll further to the East and Campbeltown to the far South on the Kintyre Peninsula.

This homely, pet-friendly lodge rests on the bay in Craobh Haven near Ardfern, Argyll and Bute. Family-friendly. Rural location. Beautiful views. Off-road parking. Ground-floor living. Lochgilphead 17.9 miles; Oban 22.4 miles.

This spacious house is ideally set on the waterfront in Kames, Tighnabruaich on Argyll’s Secret Coast. Boasting stunning views over the Kyles of Bute, this property is only 20 yards from the waterfront. Ideal for a family or group of friends looking to relax and enjoy this special place. The location, and the views over the Kyles of Bute are simply magnificent. Nearby is the main street of Tighnabruaich where you will find local arts and crafts, cafés and welcoming pubs
Argyll’s Secret Coast boasts isolated beaches, pretty villages, delightful fishing ports and some great local dining in pubs or the celebrated Botanica or Inver restaurants. Popular tourist attractions include the spectacular Portavadie Marina, Mount Stuart, Inverary Castle, the towering trees of Ardkinglass, Benmore Botanical Gardens and seasonal visits to Rothesay and Tighnabruaich from the world’s only ocean-going paddle steamer, ‘The Waverley’. The Isles of Bute, Arran, Jura and Islay are all easily reached by ferry. Beautiful sandy beach 1 mile. Pub 1 mile.

Innish Beag is a cosy escape for two on the Isle of Seil, connected by road bridge to the mainland, making it the most accessible island of the Inner Hebrides. Cross the bridge and enter an island idyll, surrounded by beautiful countryside, friendly folk and lovely sea views over the Bridge. An ideal romantic couple’s retreat, with a loft bedroom and stunning sea views, Innish Beag will not disappoint! There is a warm and welcoming open plan kitchen, dining and living areas with stunning sea views towards the Bridge. Wooden stairs climb up to the wood-lined loft bedroom with cosy double bed, where the views only get better!! Served by a spacious bathroom on the ground floor, there is everything a couple will need for an island break! Outside, you have access to a large lawned front garden, where you can sit and immerse yourself in the views. The rear hillside garden is lawned with mature shrubs and features a hidden barbeque area.
Innish Beag is within just a few yards of an excellent pub and eatery, and although rural, the island is really well served for amenities. With an excellent local store at Balvicar, plus several shops, pubs and restaurants on the island, you will not have to travel far to find a place to eat out or find something to do or explore. The Isle of Seil is one of the Slate Islands, known as the “Islands which roofed the World” and has been linked to the mainland by the Clachan Bridge (Bridge Over The Atlantic) since the late 18th century. An abundance of wild life in the area; eagles, buzzards, kestrels, otters, deer, badgers, and a friendly local community, makes it an ideal place to get away from the bustle of city life and unwind.
There are several fantastic boat trip operators nearby offering a chance to see the amazing wildlife including a high speed Rib Boat trip through the Corryvreckan whirlpools. There is a nine hole golf course on the island, charters, kayaking, diving and numerous walks. The bridge which connects the Isle of Seil to the mainland enables easy access for exploring the Oban area and mid-Argyll as well as Glencoe and Fort William. Beach 14½ miles. Pub and restaurant 85 yards.
Innish Beag (ref UK38782) can be booked together with Innish (ref UK38783) to accommodate up to 10 guests.

Situated within the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park, Benmore Drimfern is a fantastic bungalow with an open plan living space as well as a second living room with panoramic views. It makes an ideal base from which to explore this stunningly beautiful area with Benmore Botanic Gardens on the doorstep as is the fantastic Pucks Glen with amazing walks and waterfalls. The surrounding area is known as Argyll’s Secret Coast with its sparkling sea lochs, romantic ruins, ancient forests and stunning scenery. This coastal route takes you through some of the most stunning parts of Argyll’s Secret Coast; a magical undiscovered corner of Cowal. A number of public gardens are located in the area, such as Ardkinglas, Crarae and Benmore Botanic Gardens with its avenue of giant redwood trees. There are three golf courses available locally and many opportunities for a spot of fishing.
The town of Dunoon is nearby and offers a good centre for shopping, leisure facilities and a small cinema. The Argyll Forest, part of the simply gorgeous Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, is on the doorstep and has numerous forest tracks, marked walks, cycle ways and wonderful waterfalls to explore. For those a bit more adventurous, the ferry at Colintraive to Rhubodach takes only three minutes to cross the sea loch and arrive on the Isle of Bute, a famous tourist destination over the years with many attractions such as Mount Stuart House and Gardens as well as the Victorian seaside resort of Rothesay. From this luxurious home, guests can explore many small villages such as Tighnabruaich and Kames with a spectacular viewing point en-route which looks out over the Kyles of Bute. Loch Fyne with its famous restaurant and oyster bar is not far away as is Inveraray; both great for a day trip.
Benmore Drimfern (UK38742) and Benmore Formentor Cottage (UK38743) can be booked together to accommodate up to 12 guests.

A large guest house and annex over three floors in a prime position in the town of Rothesay, Isle of Bute. Garden with seating and hot tub. Coastal views. Ideal for special occasions and large groups. Port Bannatyne 1.7 miles; Kilchattan 7.8 miles.

Situated in the Victorian town of Helensburgh, this spacious ground floor apartment is situated only a short walk away from the banks of Gare Loch and the town centre, with a host of attractions including shops, restaurants, bars, cinema and cafés all within a short walk. Walking is a popular pursuit, from gentle low-level strolls to strenuous mountain climbs. The John Muir Way starts just 100 yards from the apartment and is a very popular Coast to Coast walk from Helensburgh to the shores of Loch Lomond at Balloch. Ben Lomond, Ben Lui, Ben Ime and Ben Vorlich are among the 21 Munros (mountains over 3000 feet).

The West Highland Way stretches from the edge of Glasgow to Fort William, hugging the banks of Loch Lomond and passing through the spectacular mountain scenery of Strathfillan. There are great opportunities for cycling on and off road on The John Muir and 3 Lochs Way, and you can then link up with the Loch Lomond and Cowal Way. Cameron House, the 5 star golf/spa resort is just a 10-minute drive from the apartment where guests can enjoy fine dining, day spa packages and championship golf. Lomond Shores, again a short distance from the property, offers designer shopping, loch cruises and an aquarium. The cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh are easily accessible by car boasting award-winning restaurants, theatres, galleries, concert venues and designer shopping, as well as many tourist attractions including the breath taking Edinburgh Castle.

This spacious house is set in a delightful position in the coastal town of Rothesay, on the beautiful Isle of Bute. One of the most accessible Scottish islands, the Isle of Bute is just a short ferry ride across the Firth of Clyde. Here you will find the Victoriana meets art deco-style resort of Rothesay with its palm trees and promenade. Bute has some extraordinarily varied landscapes considering it is only 15 miles long and 4 miles wide.
Set over three floors with a main house and annex, Argyle House is a wonderful base for families and friends to come together for a special occasion or family catch-up. The well-equipped kitchen is perfect for rustling up a holiday feast to enjoy together in the impressive dining room, means there is plenty of space to spread out and relax after a busy day.

When you’re ready to explore, the captivating town of Rothesay offers plenty of amenities from independent shops to pubs, bars and restaurants, not to mention the impressive castle ruins and Mount Stuart House. To the north of Rothesay, through the small community of Porth Bannatyne, lies Ettrick Bay, Bute’s most accessible beach, which is a haven for able swimmers· Bute is perfect for cycling, and the circuit of the island on the quiet roads is about 21 miles with none of the hills being too taxing· There are plenty of lovely beaches for a seaside stroll, and there is sea fishing off the piers if you want to try for mackerel and inland there are lochs to catch rainbow trout and pike· The Firth of Clyde is a sailing paradise, and golf enthusiasts are well catered for on the Isle of Bute· This quaint island even has its own gin distillery, definitely worth a visit! Exploring the rest of Scotland could not be easier; simply catch a ferry across to Glasgow and make the most of the fabulous attractions and amenities on offer. Beach 50 yards.

Perfectly located for easy access to Loch Lomond National Park and west coast of Scotland you can steep yourself in history as you enjoy the character and ambiance of the fabulously presented holiday accommodation in The Old Wing at Drumhead House, Cardross.

The 18th-century Old Wing was built on the site of a fortified towerhouse and may have been the home of Robert The Bruce, King of Scotland in the 14th century. The surrounding gardens and woodlands ensure peace and tranquillity. There’s a wild paddock where the owners keep free range chickens and bees, and a pretty burn runs through the land. The spacious accommodation is over three floors, and the character of the Tower House runs through its entirety with a wide stair to the first floor. The living room on the first floor has views over the garden and an open fire to create a cosy atmosphere on a winter’s evening for sitting and relaxing after a day out exploring this part of Scotland. The owners will set the open fire ready for your arrival, and provide all you might need including a pint of milk from the local dairy, butter, tea and locally roasted coffee beans, fresh free range eggs (when available) from their rare breed hens, salt and pepper, handwash and shower gel, and under the sink supplies - as well as a welcome gift of a bottle of champagne.

The Old Wing is perfectly located for easy access to the great outdoor attractions of the west coast of Scotland and Loch Lomond National Park, and for city visits to both Glasgow and Edinburgh. Locally the Gare Loch has walking trails with The John Muir long distance trail close to the house and providing a walk with beautiful views of Loch Lomond and Ben Lomond beyond - as well as a walking route over to the loch for the fit and hardy. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is just a short drive away with open spaces, sheltered bays and islands to explore. Its inland waters are famous as one of the finest water sports venues in Scotland. The area is ideal for walkers and cyclists of all abilities and boasts a magnificent diversity of scenery with dramatic peaks, waterfalls, hidden caves and mysterious, forest-covered slopes. There are some great wild swimming spots and a vast choice of lochs and waterways locally to choose from.

Guests at The Old Wing can take advantage of exclusive offers with 4x4 Adventures and luxury Loch Lomond day cruises. There’s also fishing, clay pigeon shooting, hill walking and cycling along with birdwatching, beaches, spa treatments and golf among the many activities available nearby. The village of Cardross has good local facilities and a mini supermarket. Cardross Golf Course is an excellent 18-hole, parkland course with spectacular views over the River Clyde. Helensburgh is just a 15-minute drive and has a good range of eateries, supermarkets, cinema and a swimming pool and sports centre. There are several great restaurants locally including a Michelin starred restaurant on Loch Lomond. The choice of activities and days out are too many to mention but it is well worth taking the time to visit Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s Hill House along with the beautiful walled gardens in the area, such as those found at Geilston House. Beach 1 mile.

A beautiful detached cottage overlooking Loch Linnhe on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Port Appin, Ardtur Croft enjoys complete privacy set in its own enclosed garden accessed via a private driveway. There are magnificent views from the cottage over surrounding farmland and the sea, towards the Island of Lismore and beyond to the Morven Peninsula. A comfortable and spacious cottage, you will find yourselves gathering in the bright open-plan kitchen/diner, chatting round the kitchen table or on the comfy seating in front of the cosy wood burner, enjoying the views to the sea over the field. Port Appin is also home to two of Scotland’s most prestigious eating places, so you can walk along, sample local seafood and a drink without taking the car. There’s a licensed community run store and gift shop in the village too. Within a few miles of the cottage, there is an excellent choice of cafes and inns, all offering breath-taking views and delicious local food a renowned garden centre and a garage. A short ten minute walk down the road is Aird’s Bay, a horseshoe shape and peaceful shore being shallow some way out so ideal for safe swimming. There is much to attract the historian in the region as the mysterious events surrounding The Red Fox, immortalised by Robert Louis Stevenson took place in this locale so you can explore some of the locations in Kidnapped. The hillwalking and mountaineering opportunities in the area are spectacular with Glencoe within easy reach and numerous opportunities to climb a Munro for those who are ambitious. There are gentler walks round the coast or inland, including a walk out to stunning and historic Castle Stalker at low tide. You can hire bikes locally and explore the area via the cycle path which runs from Oban to Fort William passing through Appin. Despite its tranquillity, Port Appin is conveniently located. Beach 1 mile.