Dog-friendly restaurants, walks and days out around Aviemore
We think the Cairngorms National Park might just be the spiritual home of man’s best friend. With endless walks through unspoilt landscapes, fresh Highland air, rivers and lochs galore and plenty of pet-friendly pubs, cafes and restaurants, it’s hard to beat.
Our guests love coming to stay in our lodges for many reasons, but one recurring theme is their joy in being able to bring their furriest family members along for the fun. All our lodges are dog friendly (look out for the doggy welcome pack on arrival) and come with a woodburning stove, so your pup can spend the evening sprawled out in front of the fire, enjoying happy, foot-twitchy dreams.
Read on to discover our top tips for the best walks, attractions and places to eat to enjoy with your dog in tow.
The best walks and dog exercise areas near Aviemore
Rothiemurchus Estate
Its spectacular scenery makes Rothiemurchus Estate the ideal place to take your dog for adventures of all sizes: there is an abundance of well-kept paths and sticks to keep even the most energetic of canines occupied. Try a circuit of Loch an Eilean, a scenic stroll through Caledonian Forest or the classic approach to the Lairig Ghru. If you prefer to let your dog off the lead in a safe, enclosed space, there’s a designated dog exercise area close to The Barn, a dog-friendly cafe next to the Rothiemurchus farm shop and deli.
Glenmore Forest Park
Travel a little further up towards Cairngorm mountain from Rothiemurchus Estate and you’ll find yourself surrounded by the wonders of Glenmore Forest. If your dog enjoys a dip, then the circular path around Loch Morlich will keep them happy, and Meall a’Bhuachaille is an excellent choice for hill lovers, with its 360-degree views from the top.
Aviemore Dog Park
The recently opened Aviemore Dog Park gives dog owners exclusive access to a fully enclosed five-acre field. It’s the ideal place to relax while your dog zooms around and explores the agility equipment. Simply book a 50-minute slot via the website and follow the instructions for secure entry.
Our recommendations for dog-friendly days out
Landmark Adventure Park
Located in the village of Carrbridge (where we have Snowy River Lodge), Landmark Forest Adventure Park is a must for any families staying in the area. Bounce around in the trees on the newest attraction, NetworX, meet some prehistoric giants in Dinosaur Kingdom, and plunge down the water coasters…there are endless ways to pass the day at Landmark. Dogs are welcome provided they are on a lead and kept under close control.
Strathspey Railway
Step back in time onboard a steam train and travel along the most scenic of railways between Aviemore and Broomhill Station. There’s a special seating area for passengers with dogs – just make sure you book ahead to guarantee your spot. We recommend disembarking at Boat of Garten on the return journey and walking back to Aviemore on the well-kept Speyside Way path, which offers some of the best views of the Cairngorms.
Cairngorm Mountain
If you’re ready for a challenge, head to the Cairngorm Mountain car park and put on your boots for the hike up to the Ptarmigan Restaurant, where you can reward yourself with a hot meal and a cuppa. Dogs aren’t allowed up the funicular railway, but they are welcome on the return journey, so you can sit back and enjoy the views on the way back down. Buy your ticket from the shop at the top.
The best dog-friendly places to eat
There are too many great dog-friendly restaurants, pubs and cafes in the Aviemore area for us to mention them all, but we’ve covered our favourites in another blog. You can also check out our coffee shop recommendations for excellent takeaway coffee options.
Aviemore Taxis allow dogs in their vehicles, so you can enjoy a few tipples while out for lunch or dinner, then jump into a taxi and head back to your lodge and that woodburning stove.
Vets in Aviemore and the Cairngorms
While we hope you and your dog have an incident-free holiday, it’s reassuring to know that help is close at hand if you need it. There are two excellent veterinary centres in the area, in Aviemore and Grantown-on-Spey.
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