Aquila Nova Retreat

Aquila Nova Retreat is a couples' getaway in the Dandenong Ranges at Kallista, built around luxury suites with fireplaces, spa baths, complimentary wine and forest views. It is also dog-friendly, which is rare in this bracket: most romantic retreats in the Ranges leave pets off the menu entirely.

Dogs at the retreat

Dogs are permitted, generally up to two per booking, with reports of dogs of any size being accepted. Most booking platforms show no extra pet fee, though at least one source suggests a fee can apply on request, so confirm when you book. Food and water bowls are provided in the suites, and the hosts are repeatedly described as welcoming. The policy is aimed at well-behaved dogs in a quiet couples' setting, so this is not the place for a multi-dog crew or a boisterous puppy.

Pepsi: fireplaces, spa bath, wine and they put bowls out for your dog. Confirm the pet fee when you book, the booking sites disagree with each other.

The vibe

Guests consistently call out the fireplace, the spa bath, the comfy bed and the complimentary wine, and the owners get warm mentions. The suites trade under names like Sol and Luna and are set up as an indulgent escape rather than family accommodation. A settled dog fits the mood; expect quiet evenings rather than activities.

Getting there

The retreat sits in the Kallista and The Patch pocket of the Dandenong Ranges, under an hour's drive east of Melbourne up the mountain roads. Kallista village and Sassafras are minutes away for provisions and coffee.

Make a day of it

For a proper off-lead run, Old Olinda Golf Course Dog Off Leash Area is a big open former golf course, though it is not fully fenced so recall matters. Closer to home, Johns Hill Lookout Reserve Dog Off Leash Area sits on the Kallista side. For an on-lead forest walk, the Mathias Walking Track winds through mountain ash and fern gullies, with strict on-lead rules as it borders the national park, where dogs are prohibited.

Similar dog-welcoming stays in the Ranges include Botanica Retreat and Lochiel Luxury Accommodation at Olinda. More options are in the Victoria stays guide and the locality page covers the rest of Kallista.