Elm Motel

Elm Motel is a budget motel on High Street in Golden Square, a southern suburb of Bendigo, and it takes dogs and cats rather than dogs alone. The rooms have been updated with the motel basics done properly, and it suits a straightforward overnight stop on a Bendigo trip more than a destination stay.

Dogs at the Elm Motel

Pets are capped at 15kg, with one pet allowed per room, and both dogs and cats are accepted. An extra charge of AU$25 to $30 per pet per night applies, pets cannot be left in the room unattended, and a damage deposit may be requested on arrival. Pet-friendly rooms are limited, so confirm availability for your dates when booking rather than assuming a room will be free on arrival.

Max: weigh the dog before you book. The 15kg cap is enforced on paper, and a surprise overweight lab at check-in helps nobody.

The vibe

Guests describe comfortable, recently updated rooms with electric blankets, blockout curtains and clean bathrooms, though some bathrooms run small. Booking listings also point to free on-site parking and a self-serve check-in option, which helps with late arrivals. It is a practical, good-value base for Bendigo rather than a place you stay for the motel itself, and the location on High Street puts central Bendigo a few minutes away by car.

Out with the dog

Emily Way Dog Off Leash Area is the local off-lead option in Golden Square, and Madame Jude is the neighbourhood cafe stop. For dinner, The Old Boundary Hotel on the way into Bendigo keeps a dog-friendly outdoor area, and Bendigo Homestead Motor Inn is the alternative stay nearby.

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