The Little House on the Hill

The Little House on the Hill is a self-contained cottage for couples in Badger Creek, a few minutes from Healesville, set up properly for travelling dogs - a fully fenced garden, a secure dog run, and bowls and a dog bed already there. In a region where pet-friendly often means the dog sleeps in the car, that kit is the reason to book.

The pet policy. Dogs stay by prior arrangement, so contact hosts Barb and Owen before booking. Well-behaved dogs under 20kg are generally accepted, larger dogs may be considered on request, and the property notes specific restrictions for English Staffies. Charges may apply, so confirm the fee when you arrange the dog. Inside, dogs are allowed under supervision but not in the bedroom or on the furniture.

The place. It is a private one-couple cottage with a queen bedroom, a fireplace and a living area with a sofa bed, on a quiet hillside block with valley views. The garden is fully fenced, and the secure dog run covers the times you visit somewhere dogs cannot go. Water and food bowls and a dog bed are provided, and hosts get consistent praise in reviews.

Location and nearby. Badger Creek sits below Healesville Sanctuary, where dogs are not allowed, so build your days around dog-friendly stops instead. The Healesville Showgrounds off-leash area is about ten minutes away, Healesville's main street has dog-friendly tables at Cherry Tree Cafe and My Little Kitchen Cafe & Bar, and the dog-friendly wine tour operator Pooches and Pinot is promoted as picking up from the property - confirm with the hosts when you book.

When to go. One cottage means thin availability, so book weekends and school holidays early. Best fit: a couple with one small-to-medium dog who want the Yarra Valley without kennelling anyone. If your dog is over 20kg, ask first rather than assuming.

Sources

• The Little House on The Hill, Healesville - Booking.com · booking.com
• The Little House on the Hill | Badger Creek VIC - Facebook · facebook.com

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.