What could be more thrilling for holiday-hunting hounds and humans than this charismatic old shooting lodge? It's set in 1.5 acres of beauty on the edge of the Cairngorms National Park. On the banks of the River Shee and surrounded by the majestic Grampian Mountains, this area is regarded by many as Scotland's premier winter sports haven. After exploring the glen or playing a round of golf in Blairgowrie (7.5 miles), pop into one of the local pet-friendly pubs. Learn to ski and snowboard at Glenshee Ski Centre (10.5 miles) and look out for eagles, red deer, mountain hares and squirrels, and otters along the Rivers Dee and Clunie near Braemar (18 miles).
After a day of adventures, gather around the glowing fire of this charming cottage with your friends, family and canine companion in the sweet sitting room, with its wide bay window overlooking Shee Water. Whilst doggies are pampered in the drying room, prepare tasty local fare in the bright and spacious kitchen. It's a joy to feast in the wide dining room, with its delightful Victorian hearth. Upstairs, soak in a warm bath before finding your cosy bedroom; the super king-size master has exquisite mountain and river views through its sweeping bay window, and the elegant king-size has a lovely Victorian fireplace.
Munro baggers, two-legged and four, can test themselves on the 9 Munros Walk, starting near Creag Leacach (8 miles). Explore the myriad independent shops, restaurants, dog-friendly pubs and galleries in Braemar and Pitlochry (22 miles). The 17th-century Braemar Castle holds 400 years of colourful Highland history while the 13th-century Blair Castle (30 miles) has art, armour and pet-friendly grounds. Visit the Blair Atholl Distillery (23 miles), gorgeous Tay Forest Park (16 miles) and magnificent Killiecrankie Gorge (7.5 miles).