He's swiftly become something of an expert when it comes to making the most of the countryside around us so we thought it was time he shared a few of his favourite places to stretch his legs:
Meldrum House
Best for: Not actually having to get in the car.
For Otto, the biggest attraction is right on our doorstep,. Set within 240 acres of Aberdeenshire countryside, the Meldrum House estate offers plenty of space to explore, from woodland walks to open countryside. It's the kind of place where even a quick walk can turn into an adventure. Dogs should remain on the designated pathways, and away from the golf course, but there is still plenty of space to explore.
Den Wood
Best For: Variety, there is lots to discover.
Originally part of Meldrum House, this wood is small at only 23 hectares, but packed with exciting things to discover. With over 23 trees species, lots of hollows and knots to explore and a fantastic viewpoint over Aberdeenshire, choose one of three different loops to walk, including the Backhill Loop, Tulloch Trail and Hawhillock View.
Haddo Country Park
Best For: A countryside adventure.
Open year round, this is a stunning historic estate featuring a beautiful mansion, magnificent gardens and newly restored parklands with extensive paths and walking opportunities. Although the house is accessible for guide dogs only, the gardens and café are perfect for all pups but it is worth nothing that areas of the estate have grazing sheep and cattle as well as nesting birds
Balmedie Beach
Best For: Salty post dip zoomies.
This fantastic spot is one of Scotland's longest beaches, stretching fourteen miles from the mouth of the River Don in Aberdeen, and backed by dunes with a wider country park offering woodland, heathland and several walking routes. There can be seasonal restrictions in place so please check before visiting.
The Fortmartine and Buchan Way
Good For: Longer adventures
Following the route of a former railway line through the Aberdeenshire countryside, and justifiably designated as one of Scotland’s Great Trails, this off road route stretches a whopping 53 miles in total. Along the route, eleven corten steel signs mark the journey and the weathered metal represents the history of the old railway line. Each sign features a single line from "Fit Wye", a specially commissioned Doric poem by award-winning local writer Shane Strachan. The poem can be read in any direction encouraging exploration along the route. Luckily though you don't need to tackle the whole route at once, simply choose a section and explore at your own pace.
Fancy following in Otto's pawprints? Discover our dog friendly stays and make the most of your time with us.
