Luxury & Pet‑Friendly Cottages on the Shores of Loch Earn, Lochearnhead
Escape to the tranquil shores of Loch Earn and unwind in one of our two beautifully maintained self‑catering cottages. With sweeping views, peaceful gardens, and warm Scottish hospitality, Briar Cottages is the perfect place to relax, explore, and reconnect with nature.
Spring flowers and colours on Loch Earn
Spring in the air - Top of the garden picnic spot at Briar Cottages Loch Earn -Norman's View
Briar Steading luxury lounge and view of Loch Earn
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Little Briar compact kitchen
Venus marks Briar Cottages garden slipway to Loch Earn -ethereal sunrise
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Two Unique Cottages by The Water in Lochearnhead
Enjoy south‑facing views, private gardens, and direct access to the water from our 3‑acre lochside grounds.
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Nestled on the edge of Loch Earn, Briar Steading is your peaceful retreat with panoramic water views and elegant interiors. This spacious self-catering cottage sleeps four, offering a king-size master, a twin bedroom, and a sleek open-plan living area with floor-to-ceiling windows. It's ideal for couples (no pets) or families seeking a high-end escape and outdoor adventures in the heart of The Trossachs.
Luxury Features: two en-suites, one with a walk-in wet shower, private patio. Perfect for: romantic getaways, photography lovers, special occasions, families. |
Little Briar is a charming self-catering cottage designed for pet owners and nature lovers. Sleeping up to three guests, it features a secure pet patio that opens into extended gardens with breathtaking views over Loch Earn. With direct access to the lochside garden, it’s the perfect base for scenic walks, peaceful reading, lakeside picnics—and even a swim with your four-legged friend.
Pet friendly: with enclosed outdoor patio space, awning, splash in stream and loch access. Ideal for: dog owners, small families, couples' getaway or anyone seeking a tranquil Highland escape with senic views. |
Cottage Highlights
Everything you need for a comfortable, memorable stay:
Everything you need for a comfortable, memorable stay:
- Briar Steading sleeps 4 (pet‑free), two en‑suites + private patio
- Little Briar sleeps 3 + 2 dogs, secure pet patio + garden access
- Loch views from both cottages
- Free Wi‑Fi and parking beside each cottage
A Warm Scottish Welcome in the Heart of Lochearnhead
Pet friendly Little Briar Cottage . Autumn view -WOWf
Owners Kim and Fraser Proven live onsite in an historic thatched cottage and are always happy to help with local tips, walks, activities, and seasonal highlights. Guests love the friendly welcome, the peaceful setting, and the ever‑changing views over Loch Earn.
What’s Included in Your Stay
- Free trout fishing (in season)
- Petanque and fun putting in the loch garden
- Direct loch access for swimming, paddleboarding & boat mooring
- Private lochside seating areas
- Parking beside each cottage
- Stunning sunrise and sunset viewpoints
Giant thistle in the garden - A perfect spot for anniversary, engagement, wedding, family and special birthday celebration photographs. #Romantic
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Making memories, family photos
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Perfect for Romance, Adventure & Relaxation
Anniversaries
- Wildlife watching
- Watersports
- Walking and cycling routes
- Local food and drink
Explore Lochearnhead and Beyond
From paddleboarding and fishing to hiking and wildlife spotting around Lochearnhead, our location offers year-round adventure and relaxation. Discover charming villages, scenic drives, and the local pub—all just steps from your door.
Discover The Area:
Loch Garden Activities:
Discover The Area:
- Waterski Lessons on Loch Earn
- Hiking Ben Vorlich
- Boat Hire for Trout Fishing
- Cycle NCR7 from Lochearnhead
- Discover The BLiSS art installation Trail
Loch Garden Activities:
Petanque
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Putting
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Paddleboard launching
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Trout Fishing
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November sunset from the garden on Loch Earn - Romantic Views
Member of The Association of Self Caterers
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Briar Cottages Welcomes Cyclists
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Cottage Holidays Year Round - Enjoy the Wonders of Every Season on Loch Earn
Autumn colours seen from Briar Steading
Stan plays Rudolph in snow Loch Earn, Briar Cottages garden at Christmas, Lochearnhead
New Year sunrise January, Winter in Lochearnhead
Enjoy waterside photography all year round. Sunset Loch Earn, looking East from front garden
Cockerel View from the Petanque Piste, Briar Cottages, Lochearnhead
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Great spot for open water swimming and paddle boarding or fishing - Briar Cottages garden on Loch Earn
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Welcome to Briar Cottages – Your Perfect Scottish Getaway!
Looking for a waterside cottage break in Scotland? Whether you’re seeking a pet-free luxury self-catering holiday or a pet-friendly cottage in Scotland, we (Kim and Fraser Proven) look forward to welcoming you to Briar Cottages in Lochearnhead. Feel free to ask any questions about our lochside luxury cottage and European Award-winning dog-friendly cottage, as well as where to eat, things to do, directions, cottage availability, how to book, and anything else to help you plan your holiday in Lochearnhead and the surrounding area.
Lochearnhead Holiday Cottages with loch views? Explore Briar Cottages on Loch Earn:
Nestled in Lochearnhead village, where Perthshire meets rural Stirling in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Briar Cottages are just 60 miles from Edinburgh and Glasgow, 40 miles from Perth, and 26 miles from Stirling. Enjoy ever-changing loch and mountain views and all-inclusive use of our loch garden, jetty, and slipway.#
Health and Relaxation:
Countryside air and stunning views are said to be good for mental health, relaxation, and recuperation. There has never been a better time to consider our cottages if you like to be beside a loch, close to off-road walking paths, forests, Munros, water sports hire, golf, and an award-winning art trail.
Looking for a waterside cottage break in Scotland? Whether you’re seeking a pet-free luxury self-catering holiday or a pet-friendly cottage in Scotland, we (Kim and Fraser Proven) look forward to welcoming you to Briar Cottages in Lochearnhead. Feel free to ask any questions about our lochside luxury cottage and European Award-winning dog-friendly cottage, as well as where to eat, things to do, directions, cottage availability, how to book, and anything else to help you plan your holiday in Lochearnhead and the surrounding area.
Lochearnhead Holiday Cottages with loch views? Explore Briar Cottages on Loch Earn:
Nestled in Lochearnhead village, where Perthshire meets rural Stirling in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Briar Cottages are just 60 miles from Edinburgh and Glasgow, 40 miles from Perth, and 26 miles from Stirling. Enjoy ever-changing loch and mountain views and all-inclusive use of our loch garden, jetty, and slipway.#
Health and Relaxation:
Countryside air and stunning views are said to be good for mental health, relaxation, and recuperation. There has never been a better time to consider our cottages if you like to be beside a loch, close to off-road walking paths, forests, Munros, water sports hire, golf, and an award-winning art trail.
- Repeat Guests: 68% of bookings for Briar Steading are from guests returning for the 2nd to 11th time, and we attract 45% repeat visitors in dog-friendly Little Briar Cottage.
- Guest Reviews: Check out Briar Cottages guest review pages across different sites to find out what previous guests have experienced, why many choose to come back, and if what we offer matches your preferences and values for a holiday.
Ask questions that are important to you when choosing a holiday that you value
Looking for a luxury pet-free cottage or a truly dog-friendly holiday cottage in Scotland—both with loch access, breathtaking views, and endless outdoor adventures? FAQ's: We’ve answered the most important questions that our guests ask—so you can plan your perfect Scottish getaway with confidence.
1. Do your cottages have direct access to Loch Earn? Yes, both Briar Steading and Little Briar offer direct access to Loch Earn, perfect for open water swimming, paddleboarding, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water.
2. Are your cottages located within Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park?Yes, we’re proud to be located in Lochearnhead, right within the stunning Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park—ideal for walking, cycling, and exploring Scotland’s natural beauty.
3.🐾 Looking for a Truly Pet-Friendly Cottage with Secure Outdoor Space?Little Briar Cottage is a dog-friendly holiday cottage in Scotland with a fully enclosed patio—complete with fencing, gates, pet bowls, toys, and a water hose. It’s ideal for keeping your dog safe while enjoying the outdoors. Beyond the patio, guests have access to a large paddock for dogs to run, a splash-in stream, and a scenic old railway walkway. Whether you're after secure garden space for dogs or a peaceful lochside retreat, Little Briar offers both.
And yes—we were proud winners of Best Holiday Home in Europe 2019. 🏆
4. Do you offer short breaks or last-minute stays?Yes, short breaks and last-minute cottage stays are possible—we fous on weeks on the peak season, Christmas and New Year, however look out for short breaks from 3 nights here or get in touch to check availability.
5. Are your cottages suitable for families?Yes! Briar Steading sleeps 4 and is perfect for families looking for a peaceful self-catering holiday near Loch Earn, with plenty of outdoor activities nearby.
6. Do You or Your Pets Like to Wild Swim on Holiday? 🌊🐾
Briar Cottages offers private gardens with scenic views. Access Loch Earn from its slipway, loch front garden, and jetty for open water swimming enthusiasts. Guests and pets can help themselves, though we advise everyone to read the Loch Earn Safety code leaflet provided by The Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park.
7. How Deep is Loch Earn?
- Average Depth: 138ft (42m)
- Maximum Depth: 287ft (87m)
8. How is the Air Quality in Lochearnhead?
Briar Cottages on Loch Earn is rated with very low air pollution, making it amongst the freshest venues in the world.
9. Top Towns & Villages in This Region of Scotland to Go with Your Dog: 🐕
Most cafes and hotels in this region, including Lochearnhead, St Fillans, Comrie, Crieff, Killin, Strathyre, Balquhidder, and Callander, are dog-friendly or have dog-friendly areas. We have indicated pet-friendly spots on our "where to eat and drink" pages. Even the local golf club and water sports centre on Loch Earn are dog-friendly.
10. Do You Enjoy Watersports and Fishing? 🎣🚣♂️
Briar Cottages has a garden on the banks of Loch Earn, perfect for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. We offer two mooring buoys and plenty of space for trailers. The nearby Loch Earn Wakeschool teaches waterskiing, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, and kayaking, and provides wetsuits and life jackets. Look no further for trout fishing & paddleboarding accommodation.
11. Are You Allergic to Pets or Anything Else? 🚫🐾
Briar Steading has never had any pets inside. Talk to us about pet or other allergies, and we can adjust cleaning materials to address your concerns.
12. Do You Enjoy Local Food and Drink? 🍽️🥂
What’s nearby for food and activities? Briar Cottages is just 150m from a dog-friendly hotels with food and drink. We keep up to date with new food and drink products, local suppliers, and a range of restaurants and cafes in the area. See Kim's Loch Earn food and drink blog and where to eat and drink pages for information and links, or ask us for recommendations from takeaways to luxury dining.
13. In to Cycling, Golf, Munros, Walking, or Other Outdoor Sports? 🚴♂️🏌️♂️🐎
You are a short drive from boat hire and golf and can walk or cycle from Lochearnhead to enjoy scenic walking trails like the Rob Roy Way and Glen Ogle Trail. You have found a great base if you love the great outdoors. We can guide you on Loch Earn area activity ideas from our see and do pages and venues, and we provide maps, leaflets, and booklets in the cottages. Our self catering cottages are close to some great hiking trails and NCR7 cycle paths. Read my blog about the walking and Munro climbing around Loch Earn.
14. Need to Work on Holiday or Stay in Touch? 💻📶
Our WiFi is hardwired into the cottages, offering a consistent and reliable signal with infinity broadband.
15. Love Art, History, or Folklore? 🎨📜
There are many stories to discover around Loch Earn. Briar Cottages and Lochearnhead are on the BLiSS art trail of quirky installations and sculptures. We can point you to galleries, antique centres, and more. Book a working lochside holiday retreat today!
16. In Need of Inspiration for Driving Days Out? 🚗🗺️
Plan your journeys or ask us for advice. We know the best places to visit, whether you want to go shopping, explore mountains, see castles, or visit whisky distilleries.
17. Require Disabled-Friendly Accommodation? ♿
Our cottages are not set up for disabled needs due to the 40-degree short sloping drive. However, we have welcomed guests of varying abilities supported by family and friends. Talk to us about your needs.
18. Looking for a Romantic Cottage Getaway in Scotland's gateway to The Highlands?💑🌅
Briar Steading offers the perfect setting with incredible south-facing views over Loch Earn. Enjoy sunsets, moonscapes, and changing seasonal colours. Ideal for rekindling romance, engagements and mini-moon breaks.
19. Curious about the size of our cottages and which one suits your needs?
Check out the spacious entertaining area in Briar Steading and the cozy compact space in Little Briar on our floor plan diagrams."
20. Considering a Small, Scenic Wedding? 💍🏞️
You can have a humanist wedding on the grounds of Briar Cottages or renew your marriage vows. The total number of guests can be up to 7. Arrange a humanist to marry you in the grounds or loch garden. We can also suggest small local wedding venues if you only require holiday accommodation.
21. Ancestors, Diaspora, MacLaren Society?
Tracing your Scottish roots? Discover the rich history of Lochearnhead. Could your family have walked these very paths? Curious about the MacLaren Clan? Explore the historic lands of Clan MacLaren, including their burial grounds and ancient ties to Balquhidder and Lochearnhead. One family of MacLarens lived in Briar Cottage, spanning 200 years. Have you uncovered family links to Lochearnhead? Use your stay to delve into local records and landmarks that might reveal more about your ancestry. MacGregor area history? Catch up with the chiefs' of MacLaren and MacGregor at the annual BLS Highland Games held in Lochearnhead in July. Maybe you are descended from Loch Earn Stewarts. Let the serene surroundings of Loch Earn inspire your journey into Scotland's past. Other area clans include Ferguson, McNab, Neish and The Campbells of Breadalbane.
22. What can I expect if I book a dog friendly stay over Christmas or New Year?A magical, cosy, and dog-friendly escape in the heart of the Trossachs. When you book Little Briar Cottage for Christmas or Hogmanay, here’s what awaits:
- Festive décor: A decorated Christmas tree, sparkling garden sculptures, and twinkling lights to set the mood
- Welcome treats: Fesive cake or biscuits and fizz to toast your arrival
- Cosy interiors: Warm, inviting space with a smart TV, Netflix, books, games, loch views
- Dog-friendly features: Secure pet patio, rear garden runaround space, and off-road walks from the door, 2 drinking bowls, parial shelter, water hose
- Dark skies & tranquillity: Perfect for stargazing, romantic evenings, and peaceful reflection
- Outdoor adventures: Paddle from the garden, explore the BLiSS art trail, climb Munros
If you have additional questions and cannot find the answers on our website, please ask us. We are here to help make your holiday memorable. See our contact details and email form for questions, availability and booking the cottages.
Blawn Wi The Wind sculpture by Kev Paxton in Briar Cottages garden Loch Earn on the award winning BLiSS trail
Trout fishing season 15 March to 6 October
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Stan at Briar Cottages Loch Earn in Spring with daffodils, Lochearnhead, Scotland
Norman admires Spring views over Loch Earn from the rear garden paddock
Bird house and feeder by Kev Paxton
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First snow of winter in the garden on Loch Earn -Briar Cottages Lochearnhead
Romantic Tangerine sunset on Loch Earn from Briar Cottages front garden
Stay in Briar Steading during stag rutting season
Stan and Ollie on Stan The Stag, Briar Cottages on Loch Earn #BLiSStrail
Stan plays Rudolph from December 1st
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Aphrodite marks the slipway in Briar Cottages garden, Loch Earn
Osprey on Loch Earn
Donald Duck
Kim is a member of The Federation of Small Businesses
Pet friendly Little Briar Cottage
Briar Cottages annual compliance certificate for responsible credit and debit card handling, Valid until 26 October 2026 via Worldpay (Card Payment Terminal)
Food and Drink Scotland
Cakes Selection at MHOR84
Eat and drink your way around the country #tastescotland. See Briar Cottages local restaurant guide and Briar Cottages food map.
Pets adore Loch Earn
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Kev Paxton sculpture in the garden, winter
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Winter garden Loch Earn at Briar Cottages Lochearnhead
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Snow view from Little Briar
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Winter wonderland at Christmas on Loch Earn.
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