BYO doggo.
Dogs are the best, there’s no denying that.
However, planning a last-minute getaway or road trip and trying to find epic accommodation that’s dog-friendly isn’t always the easiest. So, because we’re all pretty keen to get out and explore the country-side with our fur babies, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best dog-friendly stays around the region to suit those looking for something quirky, eco or just completely off-grid.
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Tathra Mudbrick Cottage – Flowerdale, High Country
If you’re a fan of a farm stay, this Tathra Cottage is a stunning, free-standing mud-brick cottage located high on its own hill with landscaped gardens and sweeping views across several Flowerdale valleys.
With cathedral ceilings that offers a rustic farm stay experience reminiscent of a bygone era and for $200 a night, this one is the perfect place to clear your mind – especially with the indoor and outdoor fireplaces, cosy bedroom, colonial out-door shower and outdoor hot tub. It’s the perfect place to bubble away all thoughts and cares, day or night.
While it’s not accommodating for children, it’s your fur babies who are the real winners here. There is a secure area for your dog to roam free within the Cottage grounds and under the Cottage roofline to provide guests with somewhere secure to leave their dog when visiting attractions in the local area.
Check it out here.
Beachy Keen – Jan Juc, Victoria
Looking for a low-key trip to the oceanside?
This cozy coastal home, just over 1km from the ocean and walking tracks, 800m from coffee shop and pub is ideal for anyone looking to unwind and immerse themselves in a relaxing getaway.
From wooden floors to light spaces to coastal colour palettes, this little beach house will feel like a small taste of heaven. There’s a gas fireplace to curl up in front of with your doggo and a decent backyard for your doggo to roam during the day.
With an outdoor shower, outdoor fireplace, hammock and three decks, we guarantee you’ll be blissing out and chasing the sun.
Check it out here.
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Billabong Falls – Olinda, Dandenong Ranges
Time to ignore TLC’s advice, you should always chase waterfalls, especially when it leads you here.
While a bit exxy at $600 a night, this is award-winning Phillip Johnson Landscapes garden and lush forest retreat is a definitely worth treating you and your pooch to. The majesty of the space is in the outdoor billabongs and waterfalls which can be seen from the comfort of your bedroom.
Features of the actual home include an outdoor shower, an outdoor bath and an indoor fireplace. The property is fully heated and air-conditioned with decking on both sides of the house allowing for indoor outdoor living and magnificent views down to the natural pool and waterfalls.
Located in the gorgeous township of Olinda in the Dandenong ranges, our house is just a short 50-minute drive from the Melbourne CBD, after a stay at Billabong Falls removed from city life, you will be renewed by nature’s bounty.
This space is simply breathtaking, feeling like your own piece of paradise.
You can book here.
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The Willows – Cattlemen’s Log Hut – Anglers Rest, High Country
If you dream of leaving the modern world behind and immersing yourself in the great outdoors, then a stay at this pet friendly cabin could be just the ticket.
Located near Anglers Rest in the remote and ruggedly beautiful Bundarra Valley, The Willows is an authentic working horse property offering homely accommodation and warm hospitality. An hour from Falls Creek and a stone’s throw from the Bundarra, Mitta Mitta, and Cobungra Rivers, it’s an ideal base to explore the region’s fantastic cycling, mountain biking, bushwalking, seasonal white water rafting, fly fishing, and horse riding opportunities.
And when you come home, you can enjoy a hot shower, tasty meal, and campfire under a blanket of a million stars in one of The Willow’s High Country huts.
The huts have one open plan kitchen/living area with a double and single bed, and a bathroom off to the side of the main room, perfect for doggos that can be kept under control or on a lead.
You can book your stay here.
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Ultimate Glamping Mirador Springs – Trafalgar South, Gippsland
Keen to go glamping with your best pal/partner and your pooch?
Why not venture away from the norm and immerse yourself in the ultimate glamping experience in the stunning Gippsland region!
Set amongst 15 acres gardens at Mirador Springs, you will fall back in love with nature in your 5-star (it’s a thing) boho glamping tent with queen bed, lounging chairs, fridge, heater and even a coffee machine and microwave!
You can even enjoy your own private glass bath house with free standing bath. It doesn’t get better than soaking in your own tub with nature all around you!
It may be a tent but this is far from camping. Check it out here.
Miners Cottage Riverdowns – Howqua, High Country
Located just three hours’ drive from Melbourne in Howqua, High Country, this cottage is a stunning getaway when your looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Situated on 20 Acres with absolute river frontage on the iconic Howqua River, the cottage offers an authentic adventure in the Victorian High Country for you, your plus one and your doggos.
An old-world style with modern day amenities, including a spa bath, dishwasher, flatscreen TV and barbeque, guests can further enjoy the little luxuries of farm fresh eggs and fluffy robes
Small and intimate with endless land for the dogs to explore, this is perfect for the romantic adventure or a fishing weekend.
Check it out here.
Harts Lane Haus – Daylesford, Macedon Ranges
It wouldn’t be a proper travel listicle without the inclusion of Daylesford.
Harts Lane Haus is one of the few remaining Welsh cottages left in the region and a unique Daylesford accommodation retreat – especially one that prides itself as being pet-friendly.
The three gabled cottage has been extensively remodelled and architecturally laid out to maximise the location of the house and panoramic views of Daylesford and surrounds. A large gourmet kitchen with polished concrete bench top, Smeg appliances, Mud ceramics and ample cooking utensils will satisfy your desire to utilise the local organic produce.
Designed by interior designers, this place is truly the epitome of luxury. There’s a large dining table for eight leads into the lounge area, complete with imported European cast iron fireplace and comfortable retro pieces of furniture, entertainment area – with DVD, Smart TV, record player and three-metre lounge couch for lazing around watching movies with your fur-baby and/or other guests.
Ahh, we’re already dreaming. Have a look here.
Oberon Beach House – Sandy Point, Gippsland
Located minutes from Wilson’s Promontory National Park and tucked away by hedges and trees, Oberon Beach House immediately greets you with a sense of tranquillity and seclusion in the quiet streets of Sandy Point.
With an abundance of natural light, this cosy yet inviting property sleeps 7-8 people (and of course the doggos) with three bedrooms making for an intimate stay and encouraging you to spend time on the generous outside decks, as well as explore its magical coastal surrounds.
The property is self-sustained on solar panels, rain and bore water, providing a perfect eco-friendly getaway. There’s even guitars and surfboards available for use, and a fire place with ample fire wood cut to size and available for use.
Suss the property here.
Riverstone Cottage – Kevington, High Country
The peace and tranquillity of Riverstone Cottage is perfect for those wanting to holiday in a secluded spot, in a unique property full of character and history. Whether you’re looking for an adventure filled getaway, a romantic weekend or some quiet family time, the list of reasons to stay goes on and on.
This beautiful hand-crafted stone cottage sits on the banks of the pristine Goulburn River and if the walls could talk, you would be listening for days. Originally built by hand, stone by stone and once a labour of love, it was originally inhabited by a local family within the historic gold mining region of Tunnel Bend.
With room for four people, the cottage is set on 3 split levels, with timber lined cathedral ceilings and slate flooring throughout. You will have your own private access to the river, there’s a sauna to bliss out in, and an outdoor firepit. Switch off from the outside world, get amongst the trees and be truly present with those you love.
Please note, the area is not properly fenced off so this is more suited to an indoor type of pooch. Check it out here.
Sawyer’s Eco Lodge – Stanley, High Country
Just wow!
One look at Sawyer’s Eco Lodge and you’ll be in love. Nestled in a beautiful native bush landscape, this handcrafted high country style lodge is found in the picturesque town of Stanley.
Constructed to the highest modern standards using salvaged timbers, the lodge is off grid solar. The atmosphere is cosy and comfortable with touches of luxury like alpaca quilts, pillows, quality linen and original sculpted artworks. Perfect for three adults, or a family of five, this quiet little town is the perfect country escape without the crowds of tourists.
If you’re looking to explore the beautiful region of North East Victoria with your doggo in tow, this is a unique option to do so. Better still, if the weather is chilly the host will even light the fire well in advance to ensure a warm welcome into the High Country.
Check it out here.
Alkira Beach Shack – Cowes, Phillip Island
If you’ve been wanting to get away and explore Phillip Island for a while now, this little slice of serenity is the perfect excuse to jump in the car – pooch in tow.
Just over three hours from Geelonng, The Alkira Beach Shack is located just three minutes’ walk from beautiful Redrock Beach and only eight minutes from the vibrant town centre of Cowes. Combining the perks of been close enough for a short wander home from dinner with been secluded enough to get a much-needed dose of peace and tranquillity, this is truly perfect for when you seriously just need a break.
The super stylish and retro fit-out of the shack feels homely and comfortable, and there is a fireplace at your disposal inside and on the balcony. This bright and spacious beach house is massive and sleeps up to eight – with plenty of room left for activities and cute doggos. Alkira has a unique character embellished with vintage design posters and surf boho pieces (owner Georgina’s signature touch!) is the ideal place to unwind and chill out.
At $250 a night, this one’s perfect for a group getaway or family adventure.
Check it out here.
