Top dog places
Geelong and the Bellarine is a pet friendly place. It's a relaxed space for all your furry family and friends. There's beach swims and park runs, al fresco lunch, frisbee fetch, pats, paddles and rail trails. When you’ve got the whole fetch thing down pat, there’s space to relax on a deck, enjoy award-winning local wines by the water, or pop in at a small batch distillery, to learn the legend of Teddy and the Fox.
1. Edge Geelong
Head here for breakfast, lunch, dinner or sundowner cocktails. With dog friendly al fresco areas, everyone's invited.
2. Geelong Botanical Gardens Tea House
After a lovely game of fetch in the gardens, there’s a café kiosk to sniff out. Rest and get your breath back over a coffee or cold drink.
3. At the Heads
This lovely spot in Barwon Heads is a great stop for breakfast or lunch, with a glass of local wine. Grab a pet friendly spot on the deck, overlooking the water.
4. Searoad Ferries
It’s always an adventure when you catch the ferry. This one links the Bellarine to the Mornington Peninsula. Salty sea dogs might spot a dolphin or two.
5. Bellarine Rail Trail
Cycle or walk the historic rail route from old Drysdale railway station to Queenscliff. The trail runs past the Bellarine Peninsula Railway, where you can see vintage trains in operation.
6. Narrows Beach
Need to run free? Along Narrows Beach between Roddick Grove at Point Lonsdale and Fraser Street, Queenscliff, you'll find an off leash stretch of beach. Westward along Ocean Beach from Fellows Road, there's another off-leash stretch – but only outside of hooded plover nesting season. Our shy feathered friends need their space, so look out for signage. The rest of the time – you and your furry mate can walk the beaches around here, as long as you're connected by a leash.
7. Basil's Farm
Visit the cellar door and sniff out the secrets to their wild fermented wines. Roll around on the lawns and take in the stunning views.
8. Mt Duneed Estate
Dogs and thier people are welcome at the Garden Bar. Order a share platter from the The Barrel Hall Cafe. Taste some wine and order the perfect food match by the the glass or bottle.
9. The Whiskery
Come for a gin or whisky tasting at the rustic cellar door. Stay and grab a pizza grazing platter from the café. Dogs will love the gardens and picnic space.
10. Beansqueeze
Time for a pit stop? With locations from Geelong to Barwon Heads, this drive through coffee, smoothie and toastie stop rewards your best furry mate as well, with a tasty treat.
11. Noble Rot Wine Bar
Meet up with the rest of the pack for a glass of fine wine, and share something tasty from the menu as the sun goes down.
