Eaglehawk Motel

Eaglehawk Motel is a budget, no-fuss motel on the northern edge of Bendigo that takes dogs at a modest fee, which puts it among the more practical overnight stops for travellers working through central Victoria with a dog in the car. It is a clean, functional base rather than a destination stay, and the price reflects that in the right way.

Dogs at the motel

Pets are allowed but not in every room, and an extra charge of $30 per pet, per night applies, generally collected on arrival. Flag the dog when you book, using the special requests box online or a direct call, and confirm that a pet-friendly room actually exists for your dates and whether any size or type restrictions apply. One trap worth naming: there is a separate property called Maldon's Eaglehawk Motel that is a different business entirely, so make sure the booking lands on the Eaglehawk motel on Eaglehawk Road.

Max: budget motels usually keep only a handful of pet rooms. Ring ahead and get the room and fee confirmed before you arrive, not at the desk.

Worth knowing

Rooms are pared back and the style is dated, but guests consistently note they are clean, with comfortable beds, a kitchen area in some rooms, air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. The motel sits within walking distance of Eaglehawk's shops, so evening walks and supplies are easy without moving the car. Note that card payments can carry a small processing surcharge.

While you're out there

For a morning run, Truscott Reserve Dog Park at California Gully is the nearest fenced option. For coffee, Skip's Skateboard Shop is the local listing a short walk away. If you want more pet-specific setup, Gold Nugget Tourist Park at Epsom offers pet-friendly sites and pre-bookable cabins, and Allara Motor Lodge in Bendigo is the other motel with dedicated dog-friendly rooms.

More options are on the Victoria pet friendly stays guide and the Eaglehawk destination page.