Howards Hill

Howards Hill is a converted barn and self-contained retreat on 30 acres of bushland at Boneo, on the lower Mornington Peninsula near Cape Schanck. What sets it apart for dog owners is unusual: rather than restricting dogs to a veranda or an outside kennel, the property welcomes dogs inside the accommodation itself, which is why it draws near-perfect guest scores from a small number of visitors who praise the setting, the hospitality and the views.

Dogs at Howards Hill

Dogs are allowed inside the converted barn, with one condition: the upstairs level stays off limits. Guests need to bring their own pet bedding, bowls and supplies, as these are not provided, so pack accordingly before a Peninsula trip. Beyond the house, the grounds are the real draw: 30 acres of open bushland with manna gums and old grass trees give a dog genuine room to explore, under supervision or on a lead depending on the wildlife and the dog.

Worth knowing

The property is also horse friendly, with paddock space part of the layout, which makes it a flexible base if you travel with more than one kind of animal. Bookings and pet conditions are confirmed directly with the owners, and it is worth checking current pet fees and any limits on numbers at the time of booking. Note that Howards Hill is a private retreat rather than a dining venue, despite how it is categorised in some listings.

Close by with the dogs

Boneo puts you minutes from the coast: Rye Beach dog off leash area is the closest proper run, and Rye's food strip is a short drive, with Freaky Tiki Cafe keeping dog cookies behind the counter and Hapi Cafe and Restaurant another dog-friendly stop. Peninsula Pantry on Boneo Road sits in the same small suburb and puts water bowls out for dogs.

More options are on the Victoria dog friendly restaurants guide and the Boneo destination page.