French Street Reserve

French Street Reserve is a quiet backstreet field of open grass in Rye, framed by native coastal trees. Dogs must stay on lead the whole time, which makes it a calm alternative to the busier foreshore.

Lead rules

This is Mornington Peninsula Shire land, and dogs stay on a lead here at all times. The reserve is not fenced, and keeping dogs leashed protects the ground-dwelling wildlife that lives among the native plantings.

Max: Keep the lead on even when the field looks empty. The wildlife in those coastal trees is exactly why the rule is there.

The walk

Expect natural earth and grass paths rather than a sealed track, circling the open field. Trees along the paths give some intermittent shade.

It is a short, simple walk that suits dogs who find crowds too much. The low traffic also makes it a good place to practise loose-lead walking.

Before you go

Bring water and a bowl, and carry your bags home, since bins are not reliably on site. Free street parking is close to the entry points.

Make a day of it

Rye's cafes are close by. Flock Cafe and Hapi Cafe & Restaurant Rye are easy follow-ups after the walk.

Go early or late on hot days, because the shade is only patchy.