The ancient woodlands near Aviemore are a doggy paradise. Rothiemurchus is a spectacular pine forest once described by David Attenborough as a ‘glory of wild Scotland’. There are plenty of activities and dog friendly days out in Aviemore, so no one will get bored.
The Best Places To Take Dogs in Aviemore
It’s a popular place to roam and when the weather is fine, it’s the perfect spot to take a picnic and enjoy lunch al fresco.
For thrill-seekers, there is a range of activities to book such as tubing, ATV safaris and mountain climbing. For those who enjoy a quieter life, a visit to Grantown On Spey is for you where there is a selection of antique shops, craft stores and artist’s studios.
Without driving too far, there is a choice of dog friendly attractions in Aviemore for you to decide from:
Activities & Things to Do
Find below 7 of the best days out in Aviemore for dogs and also take a look at the best dog walks in Aviemore.
1. Follow The Aviemore Circular
There are signposts in the town to follow with paths that take you through Milton Woods, past Loch Morlich and over a few gentle hills. Make sure you allow around 2 hours to complete the walk – it’s one that you and your furry companion will enjoy together. You will go past a couple of coffee shops along the way, so pause for a while and enjoy a cappuccino and slice of cake. Maps are available in the visitor centre.
2. Enjoy Family Fun at Landmark Forest Adventure Park
There’s a lot to do at the Landmark Forest Park. With a runaway timber train, high ropes, climbing walls and a butterfly house, the attractions in this adventure park will appeal to all ages. Mini diggers, zip lines, slides and a Bamboozeleum add to the fun – some facilities are indoors, and others are outside providing something to do in all weathers. Dogs are more than welcome to join you all as long as they stay on their leads.
3. Enjoy an Ale at The Bothy Bar
Next to the Winking Owl Restaurant in Aviemore, there’s The Bothy Bar where four-legged friends are free to join you in the evening. With a selection of beer on tap, you can go for your old favourite or try something completely new. There’s no better way to end a long day walking in the Cairngorms.
4. Tour the Grounds of Balmoral
Balmoral has been the Royal Family’s Scottish retreat since 1852 when Prince Albert purchased it for Queen Victoria. The rooms inside are private as Queen Elizabeth regularly stays at the house, but the magnificent grounds are open to the public, and their doggies, from April to August. Some winter tours available on specific days as well. There’s a gift shop and a café on sight, so you can happily spend a few hours here.
5. Hop on a Steam Train
The Strathspey Railway has a 10-mile restored track that starts in Aviemore and goes on to Broomhill Station. The beautiful steam locomotives are stunning to see in action as they pull old-fashioned carriages. Climb on board and enjoy the journey that takes you past heather-clad hills, woodlands, traditional villages and a prestigious golf course. At certain times of the year, special events and dining evenings can be booked. Canine best friends can ride as a passenger – their ticket will cost you a pound.
6. Spend Time Beside Loch an Eilein
Loch an Eilein is a stunning body of water edged by a pine tree forest with a beautiful mountains backdrop. It’s a picture-perfect location that will make you fall in love with nature. Spend some quiet time here with your pooch, or walk the 4-mile trail around the edge of the loch to stretch your legs. There’s also a ruined castle on an island in the water, it features on hundreds of photographs. Bird feeders encourage wildlife to this area, and you will spot red squirrels as you wander.
7. Enjoy the Glenlivet Estate
The Glenlivet Estate is 23,000 hectare of forest, farmland and recreational areas. The clear-water rivers and rocky landscape provide the ideal location for walking trails and cycle paths, plus areas for fishing and climbing. Historical buildings can be found on the land, such as the Scalan seminary where 100s of priests trained during the 18th century. Drumin Castle ruins can also be seen on the estate.
Looking at Visiting the Area
If you like the look of all the dog-friendly places in Aviemore why not book a holiday or mini-break in the area. From homes with amenities on the doorstep to something more rural there are pet-friendly holidays in Aviemore for everyone
Holiday Cottages
Surrounded by breathtaking scenery our Aviemore dog friendly cottages are some of the best you’ll find in Scotland
Log Cabins
Find fantastic dog friendly lodges in Aviemore for wonderful family retreats.