Lulu and I were meant to head away to Stanley in Aug '21 for my birthday - I was going to take Lulu to the Dinner Plains to play in the snow - but Covid saw that trip postponed. Instead, we pushed it out to summer... fruit season in the Victorian High Country!
Where is Stanley you ask? It is a 10min drive from Beechworth and 45min drive from Bright and, much to my delight, is surrounded by an amazing array of dog-friendly activities.
The nitty gritty.....
STAY:
We stayed at Sawyers Eco Lodge, Stanley. We found this accommodation through Riparide.com - which has a pet filter and some unique accommodations waiting for you to book!
When we travel, we also look for accommodation through AirBnB and Stayz, both of which also have pet friendly filters.
If you're looking for something a little more budget friendly, we look for dog-friendly cabins at caravan parks, knowing that a lot of BIG4 Parks have dog friendly cabins, some with fully fenced outdoor areas.
FOOD + DRINK:
Snowline Fruits, Stanley - right across the road from where we stayed. It is not dog friendly but it is quick to nip in and load up on tasty fresh fruit.
Bridge Rd Brewers, Beechworth - we suggest booking an outside table if you are bringing your pooch. There are water bowls a plenty. Serving great pizza + beers.
Yack Creek Distillery, Yackandandah - not only is there a LARGE selection of spirits and craft beers to select from, doggo's are also very welcome - and they can even have a splash in Yack Creek, which the distillery is named after. Tables are spread out so if your dog is a little nervous or anxious, you will be glad to know there is space. We recommend the Hibiscus Gin.
Hillsborough Quality Nuts, Stanley - A cosy little nut shop where dogs are welcome outside, on leash. Do yourself a favour and grab a packet amazing choc covered hazelnuts or a bottle of hazelnut oil. They also offer homemade chai and sausage rolls!
Jim Jam Foods, Stanley - We didn't make it here on this trip but can attest to its quality having used a selection of their products. We're not sure if the farm shop is dog friendly but it is a quick dash in to load up if you want to load up on preserves and condiments.
Milawa Cheese - Milawa Kitchen - OMG this place is a must visit. I was running short on time and didn't know until I arrived but there was a sign out - you can select food and drink items and they will package it up and have a picnic pack ready for you to enjoy on the sprawling lawn! We would advise that you ring ahead to confirm and organise this. Otherwise, there is a large, undercover, dog-friendly, seating area - including misting fans for hot days.
Milawa Mustard - more condiments? Yes! Just pop in and load up.
Lunch at Milawa Providore - def make a booking here as it was busy when we visited! It is dog friendly and boasts loads of outdoor seating, in the side lawn area. Lulu enjoyed some watermelon + basil granita.
Billsons Brewery, Beechworth - Dog's are welcome in the beer garden here. They serve up a mean meal and some great beers and cordials. Reservations can be made online.
EXPLORE:
The Magic Forest, Stanley - word of advice, go out the same way you got in!! This stunning Redwood plantation is loccted in Forestry so it is dog-friendly territory. This place is insta-worthy!
Murmungee Lookout, Stanley - over the valley offering panoramic views of the flood plains of the Ovens and King Rivers and Mount Buffalo.
Bright Make It Bake It Grow It Market along the river front on Howitt Reserve. This market is held on the 3rd Saturday of the Month. After the market, we strolled along the Ovens River followed by a wander of the shops.
Swim in Ovens River at Jenveys Swimming Hole!! We discovered this gem through a friend that was staying at a place Old Germantown Rd... just be careful of the conditions before your dip.
Beeachworth Asylum - explore the grounds and historic buildings of this decommissioned hospital with your doggo.
Walk a lap or two of Lake Sambell - a man-made dam + recreation reserve. I think it's approx a 2km loop and features a great swimming spot that is busy in summer. If you're looking for a longer walk, try the Lake Sambell to Lake Kerford walk, approx 5km one way.
Gorge Scenic Walk, Beechworth - a pleasant 6km walk with loads to see!
Last tip - Stanley has LOADS of Forestry surrounding it. Did you know that most Forestry in Vic is dog friendly so literally find a patch and go walking!! Read more about that HERE.
You're Welcome :)
Lulu xx