If you’re a pet owner, you will know all too well how heart-breaking it can be leaving your canine companion behind. Those puppy eyes go right through you, and often leave you feeling incredibly guilty for not being able to bring them with you.
Fortunately, those worries are now a thing of the past, thanks to the growing popularity of dog-friendly holidays. Whether you’re looking to stay in the US, relaxing in the countryside of North Carolina, or are keen to travel further afield, exploring the sand dunes of Croatia, it is now perfectly possible to bring your dog with you on all your travelling adventures.
Take a look below to discover where we think the world’s six most dog friendly destinations are.
Sussex, England.
The United Kingdom has some of the best and most unique beaches the world over, but the beaches of Sussex particularly stand out. From the expansive sand dunes of Camber Sands to the white cliffs of the Seven Sisters, the English county really is a haven for dogs and holidaymakers alike.
Whether you spend your time trekking over the South Downs National Park, wandering across the beach, or visiting some of Sussex’s dog-friendly towns and villages, you can take your pooch with you pretty much wherever you go. There is also an abundance of incredible pet-friendly places to stay, including beachside apartments, former mansions and beautiful country cottages.
Asheville, USA.
If you are after more of a scenic, nature-based vacation, then look no further than Asheville in North Carolina. With more than 220 acres of ground at the Biltmore Estate and incredible mountain views at Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s not hard to see why we think it’s so great.
Should you decide to visit here, make sure to check out the pet-friendly North Carolina Arboretum – a site famous for its beautiful gardens. Then, when you’re feeling peckish after a day of sightseeing, head on over to Asheville Pizza and Brewing for a bite to eat, a drink or three, and even a film if you fancy.
Vancouver, Canada.
With vets and doggy meet up groups scattered throughout the city; Vancouver is one of the most dog friendly places there is. Not only are there eight dog-friendly beaches to choose from, there is also 29 dog parks and a number of dog-friendly bars and eateries.
If you fancy heading to Canada for a ski, just a short drive from Vancouver you will find the pet-friendly resort of Whistler. Here you will discover a wide range of dog-friendly events, including Whistler DogFest and the K9 Wine and Dine Fundraiser.
Edinburgh, Scotland.
Known the world over for Greyfriars Bobby – a famed Skye Terrier – Edinburgh is one of the most dog-friendlies in the world, let alone the UK. The Scottish capital has a huge selection of dog-friendly hotels and pubs, and even allows dogs into many of its hair salons, art centres and high-street shops.
A vast area of grassland known as Arthur’s Seat is also only a short walk away from the city centre, where you can see incredible views of the Scottish landscape. Calton Hill and Inverleith Park are also great places for your dog to let off some steam, thanks to their peaceful atmosphere and base away from the city centre.
Nantucket, USA.
Sprinkled with historic lighthouses, museums, and a ton of pristine pet-friendly beaches, Nantucket really has it all. From the acres of cranberries at Milestone Cranberry Bogs to the tranquil waters of Francis Street Beach, the Massachusetts-based island leaves you spoilt for choice for things to do while you’re there.
The island’s lively downtown is a must-visit, as is Cisco Brewers – a pet-friendly brewery, distillery and vineyard which offers numerous outside tours for you and your pooch.
Rijeka, Croatia.
Croatia is one of the world’s most beautiful countries to visit, regardless of whether you bring your pet with you or not. With landscapes and scenery like nowhere else on earth, the European country is fast-becoming one of the continent’s most popular pet-friendly destinations, largely thanks to its golden sand beaches.
Rijeka, in particular, has a beach that is perfect for dogs and humans alike located in Crikvenica along the Adriatic Coast. Here is the ideal place to kick back, relax and have a refreshing dip away from the Croatian sun. You can even get a specially-made ‘dog beer’ there too, ensuring your pooch stays as relaxed and refreshed as you do.
