Harmony Forest Cottages

Harmony Forest Cottages is a set of seven two-bedroom spa cottages, a Lakeside Lodge and a separate cabin known as The Shed, on a forested vineyard property on Sebbes Road at Forest Grove, between Margaret River and Augusta. Dogs are welcome in the cottages for a small fee, which is rare enough in this part of the Margaret River region to plan a trip around.

Dogs at Harmony Forest

Book your dog through the extras section when you reserve online, with a small pet fee added to the stay. Only dogs are accepted: cats and other pets are not permitted, because the cottages sit in sensitive native forest and management restricts non-canine animals to protect the local wildlife. Outside, dogs must be on a lead at all times, and they need to stay quiet so they do not disturb the wildlife or other guests who are there for the quiet. The full written pet policy is emailed on booking or inquiry, so read it before you arrive rather than discovering the rules in the driveway.

The place

The cottages are fully self-contained with private spa baths, fireplaces and comfy beds, set on the grounds of Borrello Vineyards. Guests consistently mention the spa baths, the kangaroos on the property, the birdlife and the on-site walking trails. It is a quiet, forested setting rather than a resort, and it runs to its own rhythm: the off-lead energy stays in the car, and the walks here are on-lead strolls under the trees. It is about three hours' drive from Perth Airport.

Beaches and close by

Redgate swimming beach is roughly 10km away, with the surf breaks at Surfpoint and Main Break about 20km out. One thing to get right: Redgate is not a designated dog exercise area under the Shire of Augusta Margaret River rules, and much of that coastline borders conservation zones, so keep the lead on there. For an official off-lead beach, the designated stretch at Gnarabup Back Beach, about 300m from the north cliff face to the point near Marmaduke Drive, is the Shire-approved option. Closer to the cottages, Boranup Forest Cafe is a few minutes up the road, and in Witchcliffe Dear Darnell's is the neighbourhood eatery.

More of the region is on the Forest Grove destination page and the Western Australia dog-friendly stays guide.