Meet Our Pet-Setters: Marsco

Destination: Scotland

Client: Mr. Marsco

Duration: 2 Days, 1 Night

Scotland is a land built for adventure, where endless trails, fresh mountain air, and untamed coastlines promise freedom with every stride. For dogs, it’s not just a destination – it’s a sensory playground. Rolling Highlands, ancient castles perched above roaring seas, and villages where every pub welcomes muddy paws make it the ultimate escape for four-legged explorers.

Your journey captures the best of it: the dramatic cliffs and salty winds of Stonehaven and Dunnottar Castle, perfect for racing along rugged paths; the winding roads and vast open spaces of Royal Deeside, where every turn reveals new scents and sights; and the warm, tail-wagging welcome of Braemar, where cosy inns and hearty Scottish charm offer the perfect end to an adventure-filled day.

02/05 Day 1 – Forests, Lochs & Fireside Dreams

08:30 – Pick-Up from Home & Departure. The adventure begins the moment paws hit the Defender’s open back. Standing tall, ears flying, nose high in the rushing wind – the road ahead smells of pine, moss, and promise.

09:45 – Forest Run at The Hermitage, Dunkeld. Experience this trail built for racing: soft earth underfoot, mossy trunks to dodge, and the roar of Black Linn Falls calling you closer. Splashing through streams is not just allowed – it’s encouraged!

11:30 – Next Stop: Loch Ordie Splash. Take some time to cool off. A quiet loch surrounded by heather, perfect for wading, leaping after sticks, or rolling in wet grass just because it feels good.

13:00 – Lunch at The Taybank, Dunkeld. A steaming bowl of Highland venison stew with carrots is served just for you. Nothing fancy, just rich, warm flavours of the Highlands in a proper dog-sized portion!

14:30 – Scenic Ride to Braemar. Back in the Defender, fur whipping in the breeze, every new scent marked and memorised, enjoy a scenic ride to your accommodation for the night.

16:00 – Check-In at The Fife Arms, Braemar. The perfect base for a tired furry adventurer that will offer you:

• A tartan-lined bed by a crackling fire;

• A stag-shaped chew toy to test your teeth;

• Homemade venison biscuits waiting on arrival.

17:30 – Guided Village Sniffing Expedition. Cobbled paths, stone walls, and the faint smell of wild deer carried on the wind – every corner holds a new story to sniff, unfold history with a local expert.

19:00 – Back to the Hotel 

20:00 – Dinner at The Flying Stag. A lively Highland hub, it blends rustic charm with warm hospitality. You are welcome to curl up by the fire while the bar serves local ales, and hearty dishes crafted from regional produce. With its relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals, it’s the perfect spot to rest after a day of Highland adventures.

21:00 – Fireside Rest. After a full day of exploration (and a full belly), stretch out on your tartan bed, ears twitching to the fire’s crackle until sleep takes over.

03/05 Day 2 – Mountains, & Sea Spray

07:30 – Morning River Dash at Clunie Water. The day begins with pure, unfiltered freedom – racing along the banks of Clunie Water as the morning mist clings to the surface. Cool, crisp air fills every breath while paws splash through shallow streams, sending ripples dancing across the water. 

08:30 – Breakfast at The Fife Arms Terrace. Scrambled eggs with organic chicken strips, light yet filling for another exciting day ahead!

09:30 – Ride to Dunnottar Castle. Wind back in fur as the Defender roars towards the coast.

11:00 – Cliff-Top Adventure at Dunnottar Castle. Conquer winding trails, rugged cliffs, and the tang of salty sea spray in every breath. The North Sea roars below, wild and untamed – the perfect backdrop for a fearless explorer.

13:00 – Lunch at The Tolbooth, Stonehaven. A plate of poached Scottish salmon with steamed vegetables, fresh and flaky, perfect for a seaside feast.

14:30 – Final Visit to Stonehaven Bay. Sand flying, paws splashing – one last burst of energy along the tide line and the town’s narrow streets before the ride home.

15:30 – Private Transfer Back Home. Curled up in the Defender (finally tired), dreaming of forests, lochs, and sea-salted air.