Botanica Retreat

Botanica Retreat is a self contained garden cabin at the edge of Olinda village in the Dandenong Ranges, and it takes dogs by prior arrangement. For a couple who wants the dog along on a mountain stay, it is a small and quiet option within walking distance of the village.

Dogs at the retreat

The pet-friendly option is the Garden Cabin, set in a private garden with room for a dog to wander and sniff. Pets are welcome by arrangement, with bookings noting both dogs and cats. Some listings mention small to medium pets while others indicate any size can be approved beforehand, so confirm your dog's size when you book. A fee of about $60 per pet, per stay applies, and food and water bowls are provided.

Past guests with dogs talk up the garden space most, so if your dog needs a secure patch of green rather than a busy property, this fits.

The place

The cabin is self contained with an indoor spa, and the village-edge location means cafes and shops are a short walk. The mood is restful rather than resort, which suits a slow weekend in the ranges. Mornings are misty through the cooler months, so a towel for wet paws is worth packing alongside the usual gear.

Getting there and parking

The address is 25 Monash Ave, Olinda, in the heart of the village on the Mount Dandenong Tourist Road. Parking is at the property. Olinda is roughly 45 minutes from central Melbourne.

Close by with the dogs

The Old Olinda Golf Course Dog Off Leash Area gives your dog a proper off-lead run, and the Mathias Walking Track starts a walk through the local forest. Both are minutes from the cabin.

Browse more pet friendly stays in Victoria or the Olinda guide.