A KINCARDINE beauty spot has been named as one of the best dog-friendly picnic spots in Scotland.

With summer now, allegedly, in full-swing – recent torrential rain would suggest otherwise – now is the perfect time of year to embrace the country's gorgeous landscape with your four-legged friend.

Devilla Forest, near Kincardine, is among a list of 10 recommended idyllic locations that is dog-friendly and an ideal spot to go for a walk and enjoy a picnic.

Food firm Scotty Brand has teamed up with travel blogger Samantha Grant – from 'Scotland with the Wee White Dug' – to share a trail of perfect places to explore with your pooch.

Devilla Forest ranks eighth on the list, after Samantha consulted with her trusted companion, Casper.

Samantha said: "I’ve travelled all over Scotland with Casper, visiting lots of beautiful places.

"Choosing 10 favourites would be impossible. Instead, I’ve compiled a list of 10 perfect dog-friendly picnic spots in Scotland.

"I hope you’ll love them as much as Casper and I do.”

Speaking about Devilla, she said: "Devilla Forest is in Fife but visit and you could be forgiven for thinking you were in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park.

"With towering pine trees, red squirrels, colourful damselflies and lochans covered in water lilies, it feels more Highland than Lowland.

"The forest is full of hidden history too. Look out for Maggie Duncan’s Stane. Legend says it was scarred by a witch’s apron strings.

"Another stone in the forest, the Standard Stone, is linked to Macbeth.

"You’ll find picnic tables on Devilla Forest’s Red Squirrel Trail – perfect for a wildlife-watching picnic."