February 17, 2019
Pet-Friendly Accommodation NSW: Hunter Region
Pet-Friendly Accommodation NSW: Hunter Region
We understand that holidays are just not as enjoyable without the company of your 4-legged best friend. That’s why we’ve put together a carefully curated list of pet-friendly accommodation options in the beautiful Hunter Region of New South Wales, including the charming coastal towns of Forster and Tuncurry. These properties are happy to welcome companion animals, ensuring that both you and your pet can enjoy a relaxing getaway together.
The Hunter Region is a stunning destination that offers a mix of picturesque landscapes, coastal beauty, and a variety of activities that can be enjoyed by both humans and their furry companions. Whether you’re planning to visit the vibrant vineyards of the Hunter Valley, take a stroll along Forster’s waterways, or simply unwind in the peaceful surroundings of Tuncurry, these pet-friendly properties will make your stay even more enjoyable.
Each property on our list has been handpicked to ensure that your pet will feel just as welcome as you do. With spacious rooms, private outdoor areas, and sometimes even pet-specific amenities, these accommodations cater to all your needs — and your pet’s too!
Forster and Tuncurry, located on the stunning Mid North Coast of NSW, offer a laid-back atmosphere and a range of dog-friendly beaches and parks for you and your pet to enjoy. From leash-free zones where dogs can run and play, to scenic walking trails and dog-friendly cafes, both towns are the perfect base for a relaxing and adventurous escape with your furry friend.
NSW | Pet-Friendly Accommodation
Forster Motor Inn
Centrally located, this 3.5-star motel has friendly staff and offers pet designated rooms. Facilities include an outdoor pool, BBQ area and on-site restaurant.
11 Wallis Street, Forster 2428
T 02 6554 6877
BIG4 Happy Hallidays
BIG4 Happy Hallidays is a pet-friendly holiday park located in the heart of the coastal township of Hallidays Point NSW.
To book a pet-friendly site, please call the park directly.
It’s the is the ultimate family holiday destination two minutes from Black Head Beach with a resort-style pool, paddle pool and indoor pool.
This beautiful little town is only 3.5 hours north of Sydney and only a short 15 minutes from Forster-Tuncurry and Taree.
517 Blackhead Road, Hallidays Point 2430
T 1800 732 872
https://www.big4.com.au/caravan-parks/nsw/north-coast/happy-hallidays
Discovery Parks Forster
Located next to the Wallamba River, this park welcomes dogs in selected cabins and on-site accommodation. It offers guests fun activities such as fishing, kayaking, and water skiing. There’s even a dog wash as well as an off-leash dog park for pets.
99 Aquatic Road, Darawank 2428
T 02 6554 3123
NRMA Forster Tuncurry Holiday Park
Located only 3.5 hours north of Sydney, this holiday park has designated pet-friendly cabins available but not during the December – January Holidays. While well-behaved pets are welcome on sites as well as some cabins, they must be kept on a leash and under your control at all times.
1 Baird Street, Tuncurry 2428
T 1800 371 084
Sea Horse Diamond Beach
This 3-bedroom house offers guests quality beach house accommodation (just 800m from the beach) that is both dog and horse friendly. Located in Diamond Beach on the mid-north coast of NSW. Your dog will enjoy exploring the rainforest creek, frolicking on the beach, digging in the sand, swimming in the surf through to snoozing in front of the open fire or in the large sun filled garden. Facilities include: private tropical pool, 3 bathrooms, wide verandahs, a fenced yard and sunny BBQ deck and a complimentary gourmet ‘Welcome’ basket on your arrival. For your horse there are 3 large, airy stables, a grassy paddock and a complimentary biscuit of hay for your horse on arrival.
M 0467 489 975
www.seahorsediamondbeach.com.au
Dam It Getaway
This stunning property has a 3-bedroom homestead and a 2-bedroom cabin available, along with an outdoor pool and spa. Set on 78 acres of farmland with Gloucester and Stroud nearby, guests will enjoy a great experience of country life. The property has 3 friendly resident dogs and being pet-friendly doesn’t just mean dogs, you can also bring cats, rabbits, horses or anything else you may have. Just ask us first. Please ensure all animals are up to date with vaccinations, flea & tick & socialised.
I’81 Kia Ora Hill Road – Bowman Farm 2422
M 0412 610 317
Chill-out Beach House @ Forster
This pet-friendly beach house sleeps up to 9 people and is located right beside the dog-friendly One Mile beach (mornings only). Doggy features include trampoline beds, outdoor kennel, large shed, bowls, toys, huge screened back deck and shady, fully-fenced back yard. While pets are allowed inside they must be fully vaccinated and flea-treated, and are not allowed in carpeted bedrooms or on furniture. Cats and birds are welcome.
Underwood Road, Forster 2428
M 0415713026
Riverwood Downs
Located in a valley on a beautiful Mountain River just 2.5 hours north of Sydney and only 1.5 hours north of Newcastle. This popular pet-friendly resort has accommodation to suit everyone choose from boutique family rooms, river cottage, family timber park cabins, riverside camping, and a bunkhouse for groups. Facilities include licensed a restaurant, bar and café, swimming pool, canoeing, horse riding, indoor half-court tennis and bushwalking – to name a few. With 750 acres to roam your pet can enjoy going off leash and for a swim. Pets can join their owners at verandah tables at the bar and restaurant. There is even a Hound’s Breath menu for them to enjoy at the cafe.
311 Upper Monkerai Road, Monkerai 2415
T 02 4994 7112/ 1800 809 772
Tinonee Cottages – The Manor
This child and pet-friendly National Trust cottage is a relaxed, comfortable accommodation choice. Huge fully secured rear yard with 2 well-sized dog kennels for larger dogs, smaller dogs allowed inside, cat-friendly too. Two back yards in one – rear yard can be secured for larger pets. A country garden to relax in. Fantastic views from the front verandah, enjoy a calming beverage and watch the world go by.
12 Manchester Street, Tinonee 2430
M 0488 585 605
Bannisters Port Stephens
Take your pampered pooch to the coast and enjoy this boutique hotel’s ocean deluxe rooms. These ground floor rooms at Bannisters Port Stephens have decks with ocean views and access to a grassy area. The hotel is set in a great location with very attentive staff and professional service. Features include an outdoor infinity pool and Rick Stein’s Restaurant, a tapas bar among others. Within a 15-minute drive of the hotel, you’ll find Dutchies Beach and Tomaree National Park.
Remember to pack your pet’s own bowl, toys, and bed.
147 Soldiers Point Road, Soldiers Point 2317
T 02 4455 3044
Benny’s at the Beach
This 3-bedroom, 2.5 bathroom pet-friendly duplex is nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac. It’s just a short stroll to the off-leash Bagnall Beach.
The property is spread across two levels, with open-plan living/dining / Downstairs features three bedrooms, the main bathroom, ensuite, laundry, covered verandah, and doggy suite. Pets are welcome upstairs and in the doggy suite, but are not permitted in carpeted areas or on furniture. A doggy gate is provided to keep the fur baby upstairs. The doggy suite is accessed from the backyard. A minimum 3-night stay applies.
6 Bonito St, Corlette 2315
M 0467 970 727
The Oasis at One Mile Beach
Pets are very welcome at The Oasis by prior arrangement. The pet-friendly bungalows have small fenced back terraces and pets can stay inside these cabins. A fee of $15 per pet applies. There are two dog-friendly beaches nearby; Bagnalls Beach (an off leash beach approx 10 minutes drive away) and Birubi Beach (an on leash beach approx 5 minutes away).
5 Koala Place, One Mile Beach 2316
T 02 4982 2801
Halifax Holiday Park
Set in natural bushland and close to the beach, this 4-star park is a 15 minutes stroll to the centre of Nelson Bay.
Pets are welcome when staying in your own tent or caravan. If you are bringing the dog along, bring them to say hi at check-in.
5 Beach Road, Nelson Bay 2315
T 1800 600 201
The Allyn River Cabins – “Riverside”
The cabin is situated on the banks of the pristine Allyn River, which runs through a 125-acre property. Enjoy a walk up the back of the property for magnificent views over the Allyn River Valley. Or do a little exploring through the old-growth rainforest.
Pets are welcome but subject to managers’ approval and Pet Waiver and a refundable $100 bond..
The Barrington Tops National Park and State forest are only 3km away. A great spot for bushwalking or swimming at the breathtaking Ladies Wells. From $221 per night.
Wine Country Tourist Park – Hunter Valley
This friendly family-owned park welcomes small pets at the manager’s discretion. There is one pet-friendly studio cabin available and pets are allowed on caravan and tent sites. As well as being close to many wineries, the park is also close to Potters Brewery, and a few minutes to the Hunter Valley Visitors Centre.
3 O’Connors Road, Nulkaba 2325
T 02 4990 5819
www.winecountrytouristpark.com.au
Vacy Hunter Valley Lodge
Offering picturesque views of the countryside. This small dog-friendly motel in the Hunter Valley has 8 pet-friendly rooms available with a big, grassed rear area to exercise. There’s even a dog-friendly pub next door and access to walking trails and a river. It’s the perfect overnight or longer stay with dogs in a beautiful scenic area.
802 Gresford Road, Vacy 2421
T 0499 344 475
www.vhvlodge.com
Ingenia Holidays Hunter Valley
If you enjoy sampling Shiraz, Merlot, and Chardonnay, then consider visiting this park, where you can immerse yourself right in the heart of New South Wales’ beloved wine region. Guests with pets are required to review and comply with the provisions outlined in this Pet Policy. Decisions concerning pets are solely at the discretion of the Park Manager and they are only welcome during peak periods, blackout dates may be enforced.
Unless prior arrangements have been made for additional pets, each booking is limited to one (1) pet – conditions apply.
137 Mount View Road, Cessnock NSW
T 02 4990 2573
Estate Tuscany
This boutique property just happens to be pet-friendly, but please advise on booking that you will be bringing a four-legged friend prior to arrival. This 4-star property has 38 rooms and 2 styles of accommodation to choose from. Guests will enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, in-house massage, tennis, and of course wine tasting.
Corner of Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin 2320
T 02 4998 7288
https://estatetuscany.com.au/
Lostock Dam Caravan Park
Set on the Paterson River in the beautiful Hunter Valley, this privately-owned park welcomes pets and is just over a two and a half hour from Sydney. Guests can enjoy a campfire, birdwatching, bushwalking, fishing, boating, windsurfing, canoeing and swimming in the dam.
1823 Paterson River Road, Lostock 2311
T 02 4931 7118
www.facebook.com/TheLostockDamCaravanPark
Neudorf Country Retreat
This self-contained 2-bedroom cottage is set in the heart of the Hunter Valley countryside, enjoy tranquillity far away from the city noise set on 100 acres of pristine country and bush.
With two luxurious double bedrooms, spacious lounge area, modern kitchen and bathroom, combustion stove, air-conditioning, TV, video, stereo and fly screens on all windows. All the linen and towels are provided. Children and well-behaved pets are welcomed – pets must be restrained at night to protect the precious wildlife. A leisurely 2 hours drive from Sydney. Close to Wollombi and Mount View; the gateway to all the beautiful wineries the Hunter Valley between Wollombi & Cessnock.
Wollombi Road, Millfield 2325
T 0414 920012
Donnybrook Eco Retreat
Relax in a luxury permanent tent that sleeps two with all the sights and sounds of nature including spectacular rural views. There are two elegant tents with suspended Modwood timber floors, a comfy queen-sized bed with your own ensuite, and a private deck. Nestled by a lovely dam where the local ducks swim, with ensuite, basic self-catering facilities, and fresh farm supplies for breakfasts, you will find the perfect base to explore the local wineries, art galleries, or ride bikes through stunning countryside. The perfect base to explore the local wineries, art galleries or ride bikes through picturesque country roads. Within 1/2 hour you can be in Paterson, Morpeth, Maitland, and lots of Hunter Valley wineries. While pets are allowed at Donnybrook Eco Retreat, they cannot go on the furniture or be permitted to roam free.
702 Luskintyre Road, Luskintyre 2321
M 0412 003 941
Flamingo House
Flamingo House is only 7 minutes to the Hunter Valley wineries! Experience a wonderful 85-year-old miner’s cottage reinvented for the modern age.
The house is fully equipped for a relaxing stay or reconnect with friends and family, cook up a storm in the kitchen and relax and unwind on the huge covered deck. Dogs of all sizes are welcome anywhere inside our outside the house and other pets by prior arrangement.
Flamingo House has partnered with a local cycling store so if you want to hire bikes for your stay we can have them delivered to the house ready for your arrival. We can also recommend a local dog-friendly private wine tour operator who can take you and your fur-baby out for some grape action.
The house has 3 great queen size bedrooms with reverse cycle aircon throughout, modern fully equipped kitchen, 42sqm covered deck with outdoor seating and BBQ, and a huge backyard on an over 700 sqm block.
72 Love Street, Cessnock 2325
M 0488 910 614
voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley
This luxury hotel is set on 28 hectares of gardens and provides guests with great amenities such as an indoor pool, sauna, tennis court, fitness centre, and free bike hire.
336 Oakey Creek Rd, Pokolbin 2320
T 02 4998 7680
The Wattle Lodge
This 2-bedroom eco-friendly lodge is located between the Pokolbin Vineyards & Barrington Tops and provides all the comforts of home with 2 bedrooms and en-suites for up to 4 guests. There is a small kitchenette, spacious dining and lounge area, designed with bushfire and ESD standards, solar hot water, a rainwater tank, a front deck to relax on with a fully equipped BBQ. Because the Lodge is on a family owned 100-acre cattle grazing property, only well behaved, immunised dogs are welcome. Dogs have their own exercise yard complete with a pet safe dog run & kennel – conditions apply.
1402 Glendonbrook Road, Glendon Brook 2330
T 2 6577 6193
Tonic Hotel
This chic, modern, adult only hotel is just 2 hours from Sydney. Set in an outstanding location, this hotel is fantastic value and offers great facilities such as massages and manicures. Pamper your self and bring your pet!
251 Talga Road, Lovedale 2325
T 02 4930 9999
Hunter Homestead
Situated on 20 acres in Lovedale, the heart of Hunter Valley wine country is surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. This accommodation caters for families, groups, or couples. The homestead is a self-contained 2-storey house that accommodates 6 to 12 guests while the self-contained cottage sleeps 2-6 people. Dogs and cats are welcome, please enquire about horses.
348 Talga Road, Rothbury 2320
T 0429 709 452
Valley View Cottage, Hunter Valley
This lovely country cottage sleeps up to 8 guests, has 6 acres of grounds, lovely gardens which attract birds, and great views across the Hunter Valley Wine Country. We have regular guests stay with their family dogs and cats who are allowed inside with their own bedding. The house is well equipped and attractively presented with excellent outdoor living spaces to maximise the rural setting. Contact for more information.
Pokolbin, Hunter Valley
M 0418 262990
Misty Glen Cottage
This centrally located self-contained cottage with 3 bedrooms which sleeps 6, is set in the grounds of the Misty Glen Vineyard. The cottage has its own private garden with barbeque area, the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a glass of Misty Glen Wines. Dogs and cats are welcome inside and pet guests have access to a one-acre fenced garden, dog bed and bowls are also provided. Pets can enjoy running around the 57-acre property. A strict condition of bringing your pet is that he/she must be properly vaccinated, flea and heartworm treated. For horses please enquire first.
293 Deasys Road, Pokolbin 2320
T 02 4998 7781
M 0414 802 567
www.mistyglen.com.au
Schatzi’s on Shalimah
Situated in a quiet street in the township of Cessnock, Schatzi’s on Shalimah is a walk to the various shops and restaurants of the town but still within the heart of the Hunter Valley and its vineyards. The property boasts a large well-fenced yard suitable for any but the wiliest digger of dogs, which can stay securely in the doggy room when left. All well-mannered dogs are welcome both inside the house and out.
Cessnock, Hunter Valley
M 0412 226 406
Cadair Cottage
Set on 10 acres, these two romantic cottages have secure fenced areas for dogs. Facilities include: outdoor spa bath, BBQ, large kennel, towels and linen are provided, Foxtel/Austar. Cats are also welcome but please do not let cats damage the furniture. While pets are welcome inside the cottage they are not allowed on the furniture. This is Lady’s favourite place to holiday!
Rosebrook, 2320
T 0403 953 458
Norah Head Caravan Park
This park is located only 300 metres from Soldiers Beach on the NSW Central Coast and is just a short stroll to shops, clubs and restaurants. The park offers visitors numerous accommodation options to suit all travellers. Caravan sites are available throughout the year in powered or unpowered varieties. While domesticated pets are welcome they are not allowed in cabins.
1 Victoria Street, Norah Head 2263
T 02 4396 3935
QT Newcastle
This hotel features a bar, terrace and views of the river, and is located an 8-minute walk from Newcastle Beach.
Give your pet the 5-star treatment at this stylish hotel. The Pup Yeah! package will indulge your pooch with a designer dog bed, as well as their own mini-bar (full of treats!) and in-room dining menu. There’s a size limit of 20kg, and an additional $150 cleaning fee applies.
185 Hunter Street, Newcastle 2300
T 02 6396 4000
You can view even more properties in the Hawkesbury and on the Central Coast on our next page.