Many of us have the privilege of being a dog owner (or having a fur baby or 2), myself amongst them. Which raised the question of what to do with them when on holiday. Many self-catering accommodation providers do not welcome dogs, but we do! Four of our holiday properties are dog friendly, with enclosed gardens and dog walks through the most beautiful Moray countryside right from the door – no need to get into the car! Kirktoun Cottage even has a gate at the bottom of the garden which opens directly onto the Estate. Our four properties which are dog friendly are Old Duffus Farmhouse, Cabin by the Castle, The Lodge and Kirktoun Cottage. All four holiday properties are equipped with dog towels, dog bowls and poo bags for you to use during your stay.
There are some lovely walks through the mature woodland within Duffus Estate, meandering through the paths around the grounds, taking in St Peter’s Kirk, the ancient heart of Duffus and where our family tomb is located, have a look at the flock of sheep in the Walled Garden, or check out the grass tennis court ready for a game later during the summer season. You can also walk from here, past the Earthtime Nursery area and continue all the way to Duffus Castle, where you can pick up a cheeky coffee at Kula Coffee Hut and a complimentary dog biscuit and fresh water for your furry friend.
Farther afield there are fabulous coastal walks which span the Moray Coast Trail, from Findhorn to Cullen, with marvellous landscapes from rugged cliffs, caves and sheltered coves to fishertown harbours and sweeping stretches of sandy beaches.
The Moray Coast Trail can be completed in one long walk, or you can dip in and out. Roseisle Forest has three trails, both in the forest and along the coast. Also nearby are Lossiemouth, Quarry Wood, Torrieston and Culbin and many more – check out the Forestry and Land website.
One of my favourite walks goes from Duffus Estate directly to the coastal path, through wooded areas (where you might see a red squirrel) and boisterous gorse bushes until you reach the cliffs. From here, I love heading towards Lossie along the top of the cliffs, eventually cutting down to the beach at Covesea. Here you will find a sheltered bay with gorgeous shells and rocky outcrops. Sula, our family lurcher, gets the thrill of freedom here and runs like the wind across this beach.
When not out walking, what to do with the dog? Well, the Captain’s Table in Findhorn is a lovely restaurant offering an all-day menu and is dog friendly, even having their own ‘Dog Menu’. Also in Findhorn and dog friendly is the Kimberly Inn. Other places in the area which are dog friendly are The Mosset Tavern in Forres, Logie Steading, Elgin Cathedral, Pets at Home in Elgin, The Drouthy Cobbler, Gordon Castle in Fochabers, The Mash Tun in Aberlour and The Copper Dog Craigellachie to mention but a few (please do check on their website/FB page for current information.)
