Lewana Cottages - Balingup WA

Lewana Cottages sits on fifty acres of pine plantation and natural bushland at Southampton, just outside Balingup in WA's South West, and it takes dogs in its designated pet friendly cottage and on its pet friendly campsites. If you want a genuine bush stay rather than a manicured resort, this is it: quiet, treed, and close to two of the region's best trails.

Dogs at Lewana Cottages

Pets must be arranged with the owners prior to arrival, and among the cottages only Gillick's Cottage is pet friendly, with a fenced garden; the other heritage cottages do not take dogs. The fee is $20 per pet per night, a maximum of two dogs applies, and multi-night pet stays attract a discount under the published terms. Dogs stay off all furniture and bedding, so bring your own bedding or a crate, and clean up after your dog on the property. The nature-based campsites are pet friendly too, booked with prior approval, with a shower and toilet near the old barn, a communal fire pit and a gas BBQ. Campfires are typically prohibited between November and April under local fire rules.

The place

The cottages are self-contained and timber built, set among mature trees, and the property keeps alpacas and peacocks that guests can meet. There is plenty of space to walk a dog on lead inside the property, plus a fire pit area for evenings. This is a rustic, back-to-nature property rather than a serviced hotel, so pack your dog's bowls and kit.

Getting there

The property is at 2110 South Western Highway at Southampton, a short drive from the Balingup town centre, with parking at both the cottages and campsites including space for caravans.

Close by with the dogs

Lewana backs onto sections of the Bibbulmun Track and the Munda Biddi Trail, both good for an on-lead walk before breakfast. Balingup township, a few minutes away, has cafes with outdoor seating, and Brookvale House and Myrtlemae Farm are other pet friendly stays in the valley.

Max: the property borders bushland with local wildlife, so keep your dog under control outside the fenced cottage gardens, especially around dusk.

Cooler months suit the bush setting best, and the fenced Gillick's Cottage is worth booking early. More dog friendly stays across Western Australia and things to do around Balingup are listed on PawScapes.