Hargreaves Retreat

Hargreaves Retreat is a self-contained three-bedroom house on Hargreaves Street in central Bendigo, advertised as pet friendly and an easy walk from the CBD core. For dog owners the pitch is simple: a whole house with a secure yard, rather than a single pet-approved motel room.

Dogs at Hargreaves Retreat

Pets are welcome during your stay, with a secure yard at the back where they can be outside unsupervised. Inside, dogs are typically allowed in designated areas of the house, so ask the host which rooms are in bounds when you book. No pet fee or weight limit is published on the public listings, which is the one gap: confirm fees and any size conditions directly with the host on 0408 395 312 before locking in the dates. The three bedrooms, two bathrooms and large dining table suit a family or two couples travelling with a dog, and linen, laundry and free wifi are all supplied.

The location

Hargreaves Street runs straight into the Bendigo CBD, so cafes, restaurants and the footpaths around Rosalind Park are all within walking distance. The Sacred Heart Cathedral and the View Street arts precinct are also close by, and the Bendigo Art Gallery's touring exhibitions sit at the top of View Street. Free street parking is the usual option on Hargreaves Street, with the central blocks mostly metered. For a longer exercise loop, Lake Weeroona is a short drive north with an on-lead path around the water, and the Bendigo Creek trail offers a quieter stretch for the morning walk.

Close by with the dogs

For an off-lead run, the Emily Way dog off-leash area at Golden Square is a few minutes' drive south. In town, The Golden Bean and Tram Cafe cover coffee stops. If the retreat is booked out, Hotel Ernest keeps dedicated pet suites in the View Street precinct, and Allara Motor Lodge is another pet-welcoming fallback.