No matter where we wander, we know that we’ll always end up back in the Highlands. We just can’t get enough of the stunning landscapes, which are always beautiful but rarely busy: there’s simply too many cracking walks to go at, naturally diluting visitor numbers so that you often have a fantastic walk entirely to yourself.
Balneden Steading: one of my favourite ever places to stay, in a stunning spot in the Cairngorms national park (you’ll never get tired of the view). Sleeps 2-4 depending on the cottage you choose, up to 2 dogs welcome.
Glen Hideaway: a log cabin with a hot tub in a Perthshire woodland, this is the perfect spot to get away from it all. Sleeps up to 4 with 2 dogs allowed.
Invergloy Riverside Lodges: situated close to Spean Bridge, most parts of Lochaber can be accessed in no more than an hour from these incredible cabins which sleep up to 6. Expect daily visits from red squirrels, with pine martens also spotted from time to time. Up to 3 dogs welcome free of charge, more by negotiation. Stay includes access to private beach on Loch Lochy for walks, fishing and water sports.
Raasay Cottage: this remote cottage, a twenty five minute drive from Gairloch, has sea views and a quiet beach just a short walk from the securely enclosed back garden. Sleeps 4 and up to 2 dogs.
Cathair Dhubh Estate: a collection of holiday cottages off the ‘mad wee road’ which runs from Lochinver to Kylesku. Sleeps 4-6 depending on the cottage with 2 dogs allowed. Sandy beaches a short walk from the cottages.