Dog Rock - Albany
If you are like me and just the thought of leaving your best mate 'Rufus' at the kennel is enough to make you feel too guilty for a weekend break, then maybe you should consider taking him with you.
Perth is so lucky to have some fantastic holiday destinations within driving distance and if you know where to stay, you can bring your pet pooch along for the ride. These days, you aren't just limited to caravan parks, there are some really lovely places to stay that welcome your whole family and some even offer special doggy services too. So here are a few of my favourites and I hope you can share some of yours.
Denmark is a beautiful place that the whole family can enjoy with a lovely township featuring great cafes and scenic spots to drive between. A must-see spot is Lights Beach, a great little protected beach, perfect for the kiddies and dogs alike. The rocks shelter this little bay from Denmark's wind and waves and their unique formation helps to create a little ocean 'swimming pool' most of the year, perfect for splashing around in. Lights beach is an official dog exercise area so there will most likely be some fury friends for your dog to play with. My recommended accommodation options for Denmark include:
The
Ayr Sailean Chalets are set on a farm owned by a lovely couple, about 15 minutes out of Denmark (on the way to Walpole). With a few different accommodation options available, their two self contained chalets which overlook the Irwin Inlet are the perfect couple or small family retreat.
While dogs are encouraged to sleep outside, the weather was stormy for us some nights and they do allow them to sleep inside if necessary. We spent most of our days there out on the balcony enjoying sun, wine and the fresh breeze. The farm's friendly Border Collie might pop down to play, as she did most days with our dog. The cabin also features a luxury corner spa with floor to ceiling windows looking out into the valley for a romantic night in.
Another great option between Denmark and Albany is
The Cape Howe Cottages. Set on a lush property surrounded by beautiful walking trails, each of the cottages and cabins are set far apart from each other, nestled in their own tranquil area of bush.
On our most recent trip, we stayed in The Snug, a homely wood cabin with fully enclosed balcony complete with shelter for your dog to sleep. This cottage is also within its own closed yard, so your kids and pets can run about and you don't need to worry about them adventuring too far. An onsite hydrobath service is also available for your pup, if they need a clean after frolicking at the beach or rolling around on the property.
A couple of great pet-friendly accommodation websites include
Stayz and
Take A Break. Both of these sites allow you to search for accommodation that allows dogs.
Denmark will always be a favourite holiday spot for our family, I look forward to hearing your pet friendly favourites in and around Perth.
