Holidaying with your Best Friend
When most people plan a holiday, they think about beaches, hikes and great food. When I plan a holiday, I think about all of that to, but also will my fur babies, Neville and Nellie love it to?
East Gippsland has it all, from sandy stretches to shady forests and dog-friendly towns. It’s a place where dogs aren’t just tolerated, they are welcomed!
Lakes Entrance
At the heart of the Gippsland Lakes, Lakes Entrance is a haven for dogs who love sand between their paws. Take a stroll along the iconic Ninety mile beach with space to explore as far as the eye can see (just make sure your dogs remain on that leash!). Back in town, the foreshore paths are perfect for a more leisurely walk with water views and plenty of spots to stop for a coffee on the way, you may even meet some other four- legged friends along the way.
Village vibes in Metung and Paynesville
Further along the Gippsland Lakes, Metung offers a quiet charm with boardwalks and lakeside sunsets. Dogs are welcome along the water’s edge and even the local pub and cafes roll out the red carpet for four legged guests in their outdoor spaces.
Just 40 minutes away, Paynesville is another gem offering walks along the water’s edge like the Dinni Birraark walk which winds its way around the coastal edge of Newlands Arm. If you are lucky enough you may see some local dolphins that live in the lakes all year round but mostly seen in the winter and spring months. Â
Bushwalks and nature trails
Hit the trails with your hounds! Explore the scenic beauty of East Gippslands forests and parks while enjoying a leisurely stroll or more invigorating hike.
- East Gippsland rail trail
- Bruthen walking trails
- Walk Nowa Nowa
- Mitchell river walking loop
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Marlo & Cape Conran
The East Cape boardwalk is a beautiful place to take an on-leash stroll through banksia woodlands with beautiful views across the ocean. The Banksia Bluff campground also has dog friendly sites. (please check your dogs regularly as paralysis ticks are prevalent in this area.)
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Bemm River Scenic Reserve
Located between Orbost and Cann River, dogs are permitted in this warm temperate rainforest on leash and can take the 1km return Mckenzie River Rainforest Walk.
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Off leash dog parks
Bairnsdale offers a fully fenced off-leash dog park at the Bosworth road former landfill site which has been redeveloped.
Lakes Entrance boasts two fantastic options for your pooch to run free off leash!
First up is the fully fenced dog park on Palmers Road, near the Aquadome. It’s a popular choice for sociable dogs, offering plenty of space to play as well as a few agility features to keep things interesting.
If your furry friend prefers a wilder adventure, head to Brackenbush Unleashed Dog Park on Hoggs lane. With expansive bushland and peaceful nature trails, its the perfect place for the curious canines to explore and sniff ’till their hearts content.
