Dog-Friendly Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands represent Britain's last great wilderness. Dramatic glens cut between towering mountains, ancient Caledonian pine forests shelter red deer and red squirrels, and lochs stretch into distances that make the rest of Britain feel crowded. For dogs and their owners, this landscape offers walking experiences found nowhere else in the UK.

What sets the Highlands apart is scale and freedom. Scotland's Right to Roam legislation (the Scottish Outdoor Access Code) provides unparalleled access to land, whilst the sheer vastness means you can walk for hours without seeing another person. Dogs who thrive on adventure, space, and wild swimming will find paradise here.

Highland Regions

The Highlands encompass several distinct areas, each with unique character:

Fort William and Lochaber: The "Outdoor Capital of the UK," home to Ben Nevis and Glencoe.

Cairngorms National Park: Britain's largest National Park, centred on Aviemore.

Inverness and Loch Ness: The Highland capital and its famous monster-inhabited loch.

Glen Affric and Strathglass: Remote glens with ancient Caledonian forests.

Northwest Highlands: Wild, rugged landscapes including Torridon and Assynt.

The North Coast 500: Scotland's famous coastal driving route.

Spectacular Walks

Glencoe

Scotland's most famous and dramatic glen offers walking from roadside strolls to serious mountaineering.

Signal Rock and An Torr: Easy 2-mile woodland walk through atmospheric forest. Excellent introduction to Glencoe. Dogs can roam freely through the trees.

Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail): Moderate 2.5-mile walk into a hidden valley once used to hide stolen cattle. Some scrambling required. Spectacular scenery with the Three Sisters towering above.

Pap of Glencoe (Sgorr na Ciche): Challenging 3-mile ascent with breathtaking 360-degree summit views. Steep but manageable for fit dogs on defined path.

Dog Considerations: Glencoe's mountains include serious terrain unsuitable for dogs. The Aonach Eagach ridge, for example, requires hands-on scrambling. Stick to recognised paths and be realistic about your dog's abilities.

Refreshments: The Kingshouse Hotel at the eastern end of Glencoe welcomes dogs in the bar, serving weary walkers since the 1750s.

Glen Affric

Often described as Scotland's most beautiful glen, Glen Affric combines ancient Caledonian pine forest, shimmering lochs, and mountain backdrops.

Dog Falls Circuit: Easy 2-mile walk through mixed woodland to attractive waterfalls. Well-maintained paths suit all abilities.

Loch Affric Circuit: Moderate 10-mile walk around one of Scotland's finest lochs. Forest tracks and lochside paths provide varied terrain with continuous stunning views.

River Affric Walk: Various lengths along the glen floor through ancient pinewood. Multiple starting points allow flexible distances.

Dog Considerations: Excellent off-lead territory through the forests. Keep dogs under control near wildlife (deer, red squirrels). The remoteness means preparation is essential.

Practical Information: Glen Affric lies 25 miles west of Inverness via Cannich. Several Forestry Commission car parks provide access.

Cairngorms National Park

Britain's largest National Park (larger than the Lake District and Peak District combined) offers exceptional variety.

Loch an Eilein Circuit: Easy 4-mile walk around a picturesque loch with a ruined castle on an island. Excellent path through pine forest. Popular but spacious.

Uath Lochans: Easy 2-mile walk to one of Britain's finest viewpoints. Shimmering lochans against Cairngorm mountain backdrop. Photography paradise.

Glenmore Forest: Extensive forest trails radiating from Glenmore Visitor Centre. Multiple route options for all abilities. Excellent off-lead territory.

Loch Morlich: Sandy beaches provide Highland wild swimming. Easy walking around the loch through forest and along shore.

Dog Considerations: The Cairngorms offer generally excellent dog walking through forests. Higher mountain terrain requires assessment. Reindeer graze on the Cairngorm plateau (keep dogs well away).

Base: Aviemore provides the main services and accommodation hub.

Steall Falls and Glen Nevis

Scotland's second-highest waterfall provides a spectacular objective near Fort William.

Steall Falls Walk: Moderate 4-mile round trip through the dramatic Nevis Gorge to the 120-metre waterfall. Wire bridge crossing adds adventure (dogs can paddle across the river alternatively).

Dog Considerations: Rocky terrain requires sure-footedness. The gorge can feel enclosed. Most dogs manage well.

Practical Information: Park at the end of Glen Nevis road (PH33 6SY). The drive through Glen Nevis beneath Ben Nevis impresses before you've even started walking.

Ben Nevis

Britain's highest mountain (1,345m) can be climbed with dogs via the Mountain Track (tourist path), though this 10-mile, 7-8 hour undertaking requires serious consideration.

Dog Considerations: Only attempt with extremely fit, mountain-experienced dogs. Weather changes rapidly. Snow lies on the summit into summer. The path becomes indistinct in cloud. Most dogs are better served by lower-level Glen Nevis walks.

Loch Ness

Beyond monster hunting, the loch and surrounds offer excellent walking.

Urquhart Bay Woods: Easy 2-mile walk through ancient woodland to peaceful lochside views.

South Loch Ness Trail: Various sections of this 28-mile trail provide day walk options along the quieter south shore.

Foyers Falls: Short walk to impressive waterfall in wooded gorge.

Dog Considerations: Generally easy walking. Keep dogs away from lochside roads.

Additional Highland Walks

Plodda Falls: Near Glen Affric, a short walk to a 46-metre waterfall with viewing platform extending over the drop.

Rogie Falls: Near Strathpeffer, forest walks and salmon-leaping waterfall. Suspension bridge adds excitement.

Fyrish Monument: Near Alness, a distinctive hilltop monument with panoramic Cromarty Firth views.

Corrieshalloch Gorge: Near Ullapool, dramatic gorge with suspension bridge and Falls of Measach.

Dog-Friendly Attractions

Nevis Range Mountain Gondola

Britain's only mountain gondola carries passengers (and dogs) to 2,150 feet on Aonach Mor. Panoramic Highland views reward minimal effort. Mountain trails at the top allow further exploration (leads required due to deer/sheep).

Dog Policy: Dogs welcome on gondola. Not allowed in summit restaurant but outdoor balcony seating available.

Strathspey Railway

Heritage steam railway running through Cairngorms National Park from Aviemore to Broomhill via Boat of Garten. Recognise Broomhill from BBC's "Monarch of the Glen."

Dog Policy: Dogs welcome (not first class or dining areas). No charge for four-legged passengers.

Jacobite Cruises (Loch Ness)

Boat trips on Loch Ness from Inverness, hunting for Nessie whilst enjoying Highland scenery.

Dog Policy: Well-behaved dogs welcome free of charge on Inspiration and Reflection cruises.

Highland Folk Museum

Open-air museum at Newtonmore depicting Highland life through the centuries. Dogs welcome in outdoor areas.

Urquhart Castle

Dramatic castle ruins overlooking Loch Ness. Dogs on leads welcome in the grounds (not visitor centre or inside castle).

Cairngorm Reindeer Centre

Visit Britain's only free-ranging reindeer herd. Dogs must remain in vehicles during hill visits but welcome at the centre.

Towns and Villages

Fort William

The "Outdoor Capital of the UK" provides services and supplies for Highland adventures.

For Dogs: The town itself is functional rather than beautiful, but surrounding walks compensate. Neptune's Staircase (canal locks) provides easy walking.

Dog-Friendly Options: The Highland Soap Company Visitor Centre welcomes dogs in the Larder Cafe. Multiple pubs and cafes accommodate four-legged visitors.

Aviemore

Main hub for Cairngorms National Park, combining outdoor shops, restaurants, and accommodation.

For Dogs: Purpose-built resort town with good facilities. Easy access to forest and loch walking.

Dog-Friendly Options: Numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants welcome dogs. The Old Bridge Inn and Cairngorm Hotel rank among popular choices.

Inverness

The Highland capital offers urban facilities with easy access to countryside.

For Dogs: Riverside walks along the Ness provide green space within the city. The Ness Islands offer pleasant woodland strolling.

Dog-Friendly Pubs: The Castle Tavern, Gellions, and numerous others welcome dogs.

Smaller Villages

Kinlochleven: Fort William alternative, quieter and more atmospheric. End point of the West Highland Way.

Cannich: Gateway to Glen Affric. Small village with essential services.

Boat of Garten: Attractive Strathspey village. Home to ospreys and the RSPB Loch Garten reserve.

Grantown-on-Spey: Traditional Victorian spa town with good facilities.

Kingussie: Quiet Strathspey town with Highland Folk Museum.

Dog-Friendly Pubs

Highland pubs typically welcome dogs, reflecting the area's outdoor culture.

Fort William Area

The Kingshouse Hotel (Glencoe): Historic inn serving walkers since 1750s. Dogs welcome in bar. Spectacular location.

The Clachaig Inn (Glencoe): Legendary walkers' pub with multiple bars. Dogs welcome. Excellent atmosphere.

The Grog & Gruel (Fort William): Town centre pub welcoming dogs. Good beer selection.

Aviemore Area

The Old Bridge Inn (Aviemore): Popular pub with good food. Dogs welcome.

Cairngorm Hotel (Aviemore): Central location. Dogs welcome in bar areas.

The Boat Hotel (Boat of Garten): Village hotel welcoming dogs.

Inverness Area

The Castle Tavern (Inverness): Traditional pub near the castle. Dogs welcome.

Gellions (Inverness): Historic city-centre pub. Dogs welcome.

The Anderson (Fortrose, Black Isle): Excellent gastropub welcoming dogs.

Remote Pubs

The Cluanie Inn (Cluanie): Remote but welcoming stop on the A87. Dogs welcome.

The Torridon Inn (Torridon): Wild northwest Highland location. Dogs welcome.

Applecross Inn (Applecross): Accessed via dramatic Bealach na Ba pass. Dogs welcome.

Accommodation

The Highlands offer varied dog-friendly accommodation across all budgets.

Location Choices

Fort William/Glencoe: Best for Ben Nevis, Glencoe, and western Highlands access.

Aviemore/Cairngorms: Central for the National Park. Good facilities.

Inverness: Urban base with easy Highland access. Convenient for Loch Ness and Glen Affric.

Remote Locations: For those seeking solitude, cottages throughout the Highlands provide isolation.

What to Look For

Drying facilities prove essential in Highland weather.

Enclosed gardens help manage dogs in areas with deer and sheep.

Wood-burning stoves add comfort after wet mountain days.

Utility rooms for muddy boots and wet dogs.

For more options, see our guide to dog-friendly Scotland accommodation.

Scottish Outdoor Access Code

Scotland's access legislation provides exceptional freedom for walkers:

Rights: You can walk virtually anywhere in Scotland, including private land, provided you act responsibly.

Responsibilities: Keep dogs under proper control, especially near livestock and wildlife. Clean up after your dog. Don't disturb wildlife, particularly ground-nesting birds (March-July).

Deer Stalking Season: Be aware of stalking seasons (typically August-October for stags, October-February for hinds). Check locally and respect estate requests.

Lambing Season: April-May requires particular care around sheep.

Practical Information

Weather

Highland weather is notoriously changeable. Mountains create their own weather systems, and conditions can deteriorate rapidly. Always carry waterproofs, regardless of forecast. Check mountain weather forecasts (MWIS) for higher routes.

Midges

Scotland's infamous biting midges (May-September) can make outdoor time miserable, particularly in still, damp conditions near water. Bring midge repellent or head nets. Early morning and evening are worst. Dogs seem less bothered than humans.

Getting There

By Road: Fort William lies approximately 110 miles from Glasgow, Inverness approximately 160 miles from Edinburgh.

By Train: The West Highland Line to Fort William and Mallaig ranks among Britain's most scenic railways. Dogs welcome.

By Air: Inverness Airport provides Highland access.

Best Times to Visit

May-June: Longest days, often settled weather before midge season peaks.

September-October: Autumn colours, quieter periods, clearer air.

Winter: Short days but dramatic snow-covered landscapes. Many facilities remain open.

Summer (July-August): Peak season with midges and tourists. Still magnificent.

Combining with Wider Scotland

The Highlands form part of dog-friendly Scotland's exceptional variety. Consider combining with:

Isle of Skye: The island lies within day-trip distance of Fort William.

Edinburgh: The capital provides cultural contrast to Highland wilderness.

North Coast 500: Scotland's famous driving route showcases the northern Highlands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my dog up Ben Nevis?

The Mountain Track is possible with extremely fit, experienced dogs, but this 10-mile, 7-8 hour undertaking in potentially severe conditions requires serious consideration. Lower Glen Nevis walks suit most dogs better.

Are dogs allowed in Glencoe?

Yes, dogs welcome throughout Glencoe. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code provides excellent access rights. Be realistic about terrain for dog walks and keep dogs under control near wildlife and livestock.

What's the best Highland base for dog walking?

Aviemore offers the best facilities with immediate access to Cairngorms walking. Fort William suits those prioritising Glencoe and Ben Nevis. Inverness provides urban conveniences with easy countryside access.

Are midges a problem for dogs?

Dogs seem less troubled than humans, though some long-haired breeds may get bitten around ears. Your own comfort is likely the limiting factor.

Can dogs go on the Nevis Range gondola?

Yes, dogs welcome on the gondola. They're not allowed in the summit restaurant but can use outdoor seating.

Is Glen Affric dog-friendly?

Excellent dog-friendly walking. The forests provide superb off-lead territory. Keep dogs under control near wildlife.

What about deer stalking?

Stalking seasons run August-February on many estates. Check locally, particularly for autumn visits. Estates usually post notices and may request you avoid certain areas on stalking days.

Are there beaches in the Highlands?

Yes, particularly on the west coast and around Loch Morlich in the Cairngorms. Many provide excellent dog swimming.

Discover the Highlands

The Scottish Highlands deliver wilderness experiences unmatched elsewhere in Britain. From the drama of Glencoe to the ancient forests of Glen Affric, from mountain summits to monster-hunting cruises, this landscape rewards adventurous dogs and their owners with memories that last lifetimes.

Ready to explore? Book your dog-friendly Highland accommodation and discover why this magnificent wilderness captures hearts across generations.

Luke explores the Scottish Highlands with Charlie the German Shepherd, Golden Retrievers Buster and Ember, Labradors Simba and Max, and French Bulldog Molly. The pack particularly enjoys the forests around Loch an Eilein and the dramatic scenery of Glencoe.