Junction Motel

Junction Motel is a 30-room retro-styled motel at 50 Pioneer Avenue in New Norfolk, about 30 minutes from Hobart, and a practical base for a Derwent Valley trip with a dog, provided you sort one detail first: its pet policy has shifted under changing management.

Dogs at Junction Motel

Pet-stay directories and past guests describe dog-friendly rooms on request, including rooms with rear sliding doors opening onto a small grassy strip, but the motel's own booking engine currently states pets are not allowed. That conflict means the phone is the only reliable check: call (03) 6261 4029 before booking, confirm whether dogs are being accepted at the moment, which rooms, and what fee or limits apply. Do not assume either answer holds until you have heard it from the motel.

The place

The rooms lean into a colourful, maximalist retro look, mid-century styling with eclectic furniture that guests either love or tolerate, and consistently mention as part of the charm. Rooms are streamlined behind the decor, with flat-screen TVs, fridges, microwaves, kettles, private bathrooms and good hot water pressure, and select rooms have balconies.

Close by with the dogs

New Norfolk's High Street cafes are a short walk, and The Cake Lady Cafe welcomes leashed dogs at its outdoor tables. For off-lead time, the Humphrey Street fenced dog park at 66 Humphrey Street runs 24/7 with double-gate entry, and the Derwent River paths make a calmer on-lead stroll. On drives out, keep dogs leashed near the playground and BBQ areas under Derwent Valley Council buffer rules.

More options are on the TAS dog friendly stays guide and the New Norfolk destination page.

Pepsi: ring ahead and ask for one of the back sliding-door rooms, a grassy doorstep at 6am beats the car park.