Fancy taking a mini-break this autumn and bringing your favourite four-legged friend along with you?
A road trip around Scotland could be the answer as there are loads of great options for road trips with quaint seaside towns, vibrant cities and countryside villages all ideal for exploring.
From coastline-hugging highways to winding countryside roads, there’s no travel experience quite like hitting the road – especially when you can take your four-legged friend along with you.
Though it isn't always easy to find dog-friendly locations to enjoy, the researchers at custom dog food delivery site tails.com have revealed the top 10 woof-worthy road trips across Scotland.
According to the research, Edinburgh to Kirkwall is the country's most dog-friendly road trip, scoring 31.7 out of the possible 50.
The route has four main stopping points including the Scottish capital itself, Aberdeen, Inverness and finally Kirkwall. There are a total of 336 dog-friendly Airbnbs, 90 vets and 72 dog-friendly restaurants available at the main stopping points.
The road trip also has eight dog-friendly activities listed and one of the highest number of walking trails with 220.
Voted 7.9 out of 10 for best walking trails, there’s plenty of routes to explore on the journey.
Edinburgh
Last year Edinburgh was crowned the UK’s most dog-friendly staycation destination so there’s no wonder this road trip starting in the Scottish capital scored high for dog-friendliness.
Tails.com said: "What better way to begin your journey than with a trip to Edinburgh’s Portobello Beach.
"The popular dog-friendly destination is the perfect spot for a seaside stroll and a dip of paws (and feet) in the ocean."
Aberdeen
There are plenty of places to get out and enjoy the fresh air on the first stop.
Tails.com added: "Duthie Park in Aberdeen has 44 acres of green space, winding paths and a river to roam, making it a great location to stop off with your four-legged friend."
Inverness
Tails.com said: "There’s no better place to explore and feel the wind in your fur (and hair) than Loch Ness.
"The scenic walk is 23 miles in length around the large, deepwater lock and you might even catch a glimpse of the allusive Loch Ness Monster."
Kirkwall
There are some real highlights to enjoy as the road trip draws to an end in Kirkwall.
Tails.com added: "Kirkwall Harbourfront is a picturesque place to enjoy a leisurely stroll with your dog and once you’ve worked up an appetite, perch on a bench with some fish and chips, watching the local fishermen come and go."
The Royal Deeside Tourist Route landed in second place on the ranking with a score of 25.9, followed by Heart 200 with a score of 23.4.
Top 10 most dog-friendly road trips in Scotland:
- Edinburgh to Kirkwall - 31.7/50
- Royal Deeside Tourist Route - 25.9
- Heart 200 - 23.4
- Inverness to Elgin - 21.3
- North East 250 - 19.4
- The Argyll Coastal Route & Loch Ness - 17.3
- The North Coast 500 - 15.9
- Road to the Isles - 15.3
- South West Coastal 300 - 12.6
- Outer Hebrides - 7.9
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