Loch Lomond Finnich Cottages

A cluster of self-catering cottages set across 220 acres of private ground near Croftamie and Drymen, on the quiet southern edge of Loch Lomond, this is one of those places built for slowing right down. Guests consistently describe spotless, thoughtfully kitted-out cottages, hot tubs waiting at the temperature you asked for, and hosts who reply to questions almost instantly. It is genuinely rural but only a short drive from villages and Balloch, so it manages to feel isolated without being awkward to reach.

Dogs are firmly part of the welcome here, and it shows in the detail. Guests travelling with dogs repeatedly mention bowls, blankets, towels and even edible welcome treats laid on for their pets, plus acres of estate to walk them across and trails straight from the door. Several call it one of the easiest dog-friendly stays they have had, and the on-site laundry, comfortable cottages and quiet setting all help when a dog is part of the party.

A few things are worth knowing before you book with a dog. Only one of the cottages has a fully secure, enclosed garden, which is the one to request if you want to let a dog off the lead outside; the others open onto shared estate ground where the lead policy matters. Paths from the car park are poorly lit, so pack a torch for late toilet breaks. A couple of guests noted a faint doggy smell on soft furnishings in the more heavily-used cottages, and not every cottage has hot tub access, so check the specific property. There is also a resident dog on the estate, which is another reason the keep-dogs-on-a-lead rule is there to be followed.

You will want a car for restaurants and pubs, but for a peaceful, dog-friendly Loch Lomond base with room to roam, it is hard to beat.

Best suited to couples, families and small groups who want a peaceful, well-run Loch Lomond retreat with plenty of space to walk a dog and a genuinely pet-ready setup.