Dreaming of a weekend in wine country? Don’t leave your precious pup behind. Instead, discover pet-friendly accommodation in the Hunter Valley and explore all that this beautiful countryside has to offer with your canine companion.
After all, holidaying with pets is on the rise! Research shows that 2 million Aussie households take a trip with their pooch each year – and named NSW the country’s top destination for this kind of adventure.
Here, we share our favourite Hunter Valley rental homes that welcome pets, plus plenty of local activities to get tails wagging. Read on to start planning the perfect pet-friendly getaway in 2024!
5 PET-FRIENDLY STAYS FOR YOUR HUNTER VALLEY HOLIDAY
1. Kokoon
Kokoon is a pet-friendly holiday rental that welcomes up to two small breed dogs (for an extra fee). The ideal place to enjoy some quality time with your pet, this home is named after the Finnish word for ‘togetherness’.
And it has been crafted with pure comfort in mind.
The open-plan living space connects seamlessly to all other rooms, offering breathtaking views of lush parklands and tranquil trees. It also opens up to an outdoor patio and a pool for splashing around on hot summer days.
Meanwhile, the spacious master bedroom features a king-sized bed (large enough for cuddles with you know who!) and an elegant ensuite. You’ll also find three additional bedrooms and a dedicated media room for cosy movie nights.
2. Alkira at the Vintage
Alkira, an Aboriginal term meaning ‘bright and sunny’, is the ultimate in pet-friendly Hunter Valley accommodation. This modern holiday rental sleeps up to 12 guests and boasts its own designated dog room, making it an ideal getaway for the whole family.
Tucked away on a quiet street, it also has a large, grassy backyard for your pet to run and play all day. Plus, the adjoining alfresco area is made for BBQs that can be enjoyed by humans and pets alike.
Inside, a dedicated theatre room offers the perfect spot for winding down after a day of adventures. You’ll also find a fully equipped kitchen comes with a butler’s pantry and wine cellar.
3. Japanese Teahouse
For those seeking peaceful and pet-friendly accommodation in the Hunter Valley, the Japanese Tea House awaits. With its views of the 17th hole set against a backdrop of lush trees, this holiday home is a serene getaway for dog-loving couples or small families.
Inspired by the tranquillity of a Japanese Tea House, it offers two bedrooms and one bathroom to comfortably accommodate up to four guests – plus your furry friend upon request!
Outside, the back deck is an idyllic setting for a barbeque or an afternoon of total relaxation by the peaceful bushland. Finished off with a fully fenced yard, this property shines for pet owners.
4. Willow’s Green
With exquisite interiors alongside plenty of outdoor space, Willow’s Green is a contemporary haven for both guests and their pets.
Imagine entertaining in the expansive open-plan area that combines the living room, kitchen, and dining space, or enjoying the outside lounge area with sneak peeks of the 18-hole Championship golf course.
This home also offers the bonus of a separate media room and an additional living space, providing everyone, including dogs, their own space to unwind.
5. Casa Barnhill
Still looking for pet-friendly accommodation in the Hunter Valley? Casa Barnhill is a spectacular home away from home for dog owners.
This sophisticated property features three bedrooms and two bathrooms, comfortably sleeping up to eight guests. It also welcomes pets (with a $50 pet fee), so long as they stay off the furniture!
Striking a balance between chic design and practical comfort, the inviting interior is designed for relaxation. Highlights include a gas fireplace and separate media room.
Step outside to enjoy views of the 14th fairway from the covered alfresco area, soak in the jacuzzi, cook up a feast on the BBQ or enjoy a glass of wine with your pet by your side.
HUNTER VALLEY ACTIVITIES FOR YOU AND YOUR PET
Now that you know where to stay in the Hunter Valley with a dog, it’s time to put together an unforgettable itinerary! From dog-friendly cellar doors to off-leash areas, there are plenty of attractions to enjoy with your fluffy family member.
Grab A Bite To Eat At A Dog-Friendly Restaurant
Nestled within The Vintage Estate, NINETEEN offers laidback breakfast, lunch and dinner all week long. Come on down with your dog to enjoy the weekly specials, live music, sporting events, and much more.
Whether you’d like to dig into a delicious feast at the Bistro, catch a game by the Sports Bar or dance to local bands in the Beer Garden, your whole family (pets included) are guaranteed a great time!
Go Wine Tasting At A Vineyard That Welcomes Pets
Many vineyards in Hunter Valley invite pets along. Just remember to keep your dog leashed, tidy up after them, and stick to the designated areas.
At Saddler’s Creek Winery, well-behaved dogs are welcome to enjoy the large open lawn. Vamp by Lisa McGuignan, Wild Ren Wines, Allandale Winery and Brokenwood Wines also invite pets along to their cellar doors.
Alternatively, visit Sandalyn Wilderness Estate if your four-legged friend would like to play with Bacchus, the resident St. Bernard!
Unleash In A Local Park
For dogs that love to roam free, Cessnock offers two designated off-leash dog exercise areas. Manning Park offers a spacious area to play freely to the east of Allandale Road, whereas Hall Park is a more compact space that you can get to from Chidgey Street or Stephen Street.
Both parks are officially recognised as off-leash areas by the local council. Even better, there are plans to create another off-leash area at Bridges Hill in Cessnock soon!
Go For A Walk Around Kitchener Dam
Sadly, pets aren’t welcome in the Hunter Valley Gardens. However, that doesn’t mean you have to forgo walking the dog while you’re in town.
Kitchener Dam, located 5 km south of Cessnock, is a firm favourite for local dog owners and a great place to take a stroll during your stay (just remember to use a leash at all times).
Here, you can enjoy a 1.2km walking track around the dam, which is home to ducks and swans, or opt for the longer trail that meanders through bordering bushland. Both are a beautiful way to spend a morning with your pet.
BOOK PET-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION IN THE HUNTER VALLEY
Ready to enjoy a break with your beloved pet? The Vintage Holiday Houses offer luxury pet-friendly accommodation in the Hunter Valley.
Many of our unique, privately-owned villas cater to guests and their pets, providing an exceptional retreat in the Pokolbin countryside. Here, you’ll only be a whisker away from a wealth of world-class wineries, walks and facilities, such as our Greg Norman-designed golf course and dog-friendly restaurant, NINETEEN.
Explore holiday rentals in the Hunter Valley for your desired dates online or get in touch with our team to learn more. We look forward to welcoming you and your pet!