Heron's Rest, Isle of Skye

Heron's Rest is a remote self-catering cottage in Glendale, on the far north-west arm of Skye beyond Dunvegan, and its appeal is exactly what that sounds like: isolation, weather and a lot of space. For dog owners the two practical draws are an enclosed garden with a gate and a beach within walking distance.

The enclosed garden is the detail that separates this from most Skye lets, where dogs are usually lead-only the moment they step outside. Guests travelling with dogs confirm the gate and fence do their job, with an important qualification attached: there is croft land and sheep all around, so dogs should not be left unattended in the garden and recall matters on the walk down to the shore. That walk ends at the sea, and dogs that swim will find it a good one, with fresh water to rinse off in on the way back.

Inside, the layout suits a wet dog. A utility room off the entrance leads through to the bathroom, so a soaked or muddy dog can be dealt with before it reaches the living space.

The honest caveat is housekeeping. The property's weakest guest feedback centres on cleanliness, and that has included dog hair from previous stays left on the floor and soft furnishings, alongside crockery that needed rewashing. It is worth a look round before you unpack, particularly if you or your dog react to another animal's hair. Two other practical notes: the driveway has a significant pothole, and the entrance gate is signposted for a neighbouring house, which catches people arriving after dark.

Best suited to confident dog owners who want genuine remoteness, a secure garden and a beach on the doorstep, and who will not be thrown by a cottage that needs a once-over on arrival.