Top dog places to visit
Victoria's spa country is positively brimming with dog friendly places and pursuits. Park the dog out front to people watch, and try a cocktail at a boutique distillery. Or let your mate lead you on dog approved forest trails. Dogs and other people are pretty relaxed around here. It's a fetching place to stay.
1. Lake Daylesford Walk and Tipperary Walking Track
Set off on a gentle 40 minute walk from Lake Daylesford car park, to circle the lake. Stretch yourself with a 15 km, dog friendly day walk on the Tipperary Track to Hepburn Springs. You'll pass through historic goldfields, and dry creek beds – with mineral springs to drink from, when you get there.
2. Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm
Spread out on the lovely lawns, enjoy scones for morning tea, or a delicious lunch at La Trattoria. Have a game of bocce in the garden. Good dogs welcome.
3. Daylesford Cider
Taste a paddle of organic apple ciders at the tavern-cellar-door and order up a snack. Wind down in the patio courtyard and enjoy lawn games in the gardens with your four-legged mate.
4. Harts Lane Haus
Stay a few nights at this lovely cottage, with panoramic views of Daylesford. Style savvy dogs will appreciate the gourmet kitchen, gorgeous deck, and luxe interior design. Humans are also welcome.
5. Farmer's Arms Daylesford
This gem of a gourmet country pub has an extensive wine list and seasonal, locally sourced menu. Pets can join you in the beer garden for lunch and dinner.
6. The Boathouse
Do brunch right: with the Boathouse breakfast or corn and zucchini waffles, and a lakeside view. There's an outdoor deck, and lunch is served until 2.30 pm.
7. Trentham Falls
For the best views of the falls, take the easy walk from the carpark in Coliban River Scenic Reserve to the waterfall viewing area. Pack a picnic and settle into your bush surroundings.
8. Cosmopolitan Hotel
Pick a spot under the old elms in the Cosmo's garden and order an ale for you and a glass of the finest house water for the dog. There's great food and live music on Sundays.
9. Animus Distillery Cocktail Lounge and Cellar Door
Artisan small batch gin is the specialty at this Kyneton establishment. There's whisky and local craft beer behind the bar too, and they'll do you a mighty fine cocktail. Dogs can join you outside.
10. Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens
You'll find these beautiful gardens perched high on the summit of an extinct volcano. Climb the Pioneers Lookout Tower for amazing views of Daylesford town, or spread a picnic blanket and share some cheese and crackers with a furry friend.
