News Dog-friendly West Gippsland

2:20 hours' drive from Melbourne

It might sound like something from a Viking saga, but Walhalla is more weekend-away-heaven, and it’s the perfect place to bring Fido. Pop that leash on and take your dog for a walk through the dog-friendly town. Set out along the tramline on the ridge above the Main Road. While this walk is lovely at any time of year, it really shines in autumn, when the changing leaves are on full display.

If your pooch is up for it, take them for a ride on the Walhalla Goldfields Railway. This old-timey train ventures through the delightful Stringers Creek gorge, weaving back and forth across the creek, with plenty of open-air space aboard for dogs.

Finish your gold rush day out at the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine, where you can discover more about Walhalla’s gold-mining history. Dogs are allowed on the underground tour deep into the earth, following a relatively flat and wide walking surface into the mine.

Under the Walhalla Bridge, you can take your pooch for a dip in the Thomson River.

1:50 hours' drive from Melbourne

If your pup has some energy to burn, set out on a dog-friendly walk just 90 minutes from Melbourne. The 1-hour Toorongo Falls Loop Walk takes in 2 impressive waterfalls as it weaves through fern-filled gullies and towering trees. Keep an eye out for fairies among the fallen logs and moss-covered rocks.

Make sure you stop in at Noojee (more dog-friendly inspo below) just 10 minutes' drive from Toorongo Falls.

1:40 hours' drive from Melbourne

Start off by visiting the trestle bridge, which stands at an impressive 21 metres. The Noojee Trestle Bridge sits along the meandering old railway line through the Noojee Bushland Reserve and the emerald-green township of Noojee. You can walk or ride the short 3km rail trail, ending at the Noojee Station Precinct.

Bring a picnic that you can munch on by the gently flowing Latrobe River, or on one of the hand-carved tables in the Noojee Station Precinct. Follow it up with a stroll through the township, a coffee (and perhaps a cake) from Heritage Gifts & Café in hand.

Wind down after walking all day by heading to nearby Neerim South. There you will find Five Aces Brewing, where you can sit with your pooch in the beer garden out the back, and enjoy a cold one. Perhaps the dogs should stick to water, though. A kilometre from town is the Neerim South Wetlands that loops around a small series of ponds with a backtrack of bird song.

1:15 hours' drive from Melbourne

On the second Saturday of the month (except during winter), you can walk your dog through the charming Rokeby Market. Pick up freshly baked bread, organic produce and local crafts, while listening to music and enjoying the lively atmosphere.

From there you can tackle a section of the 12km Rokeby to Neerim Rail Trail, part of the original Warragul to Noojee rail line. Pass through the lush Crossover Regional Park to Neerim, and travel back in time catching a glimpse of an historic trestle bridge.

1:15 hours' drive from Melbourne

Bring your dog to the beloved Warragul Farmers Market (third Saturday of every month). You can fill several tote bags with all the delicious foods, fresh breads, locally grown flowers and crisp veggies that your heart desires.

Pop your shopping bags in the car and then head to Bandolier Brewing, for lunch over an award-winning beer. Dogs are welcome in the pretty courtyard.

1:15 hours' drive from Melbourne

Near Jindivick, you will find the beautiful Nangara Reserve. Once a quarry but now a picturesque parkland, this bushland reserve is the perfect place to take your fur baby for a wander. The meaning of Nangara is “meeting of the waters”, with the Labertouche Creek meeting the Tarago and Bunyip Rivers here.

Make a dash to Laurie Collins Sculpture Garden and weave through the whimsical garden, laiden with sculptures and mosaics.

1:20 hours' drive from Melbourne

There’s a strong café culture in Yarragon, with loads of dog-friendly places to visit. Dine al fresco in the Village Walk where dogs are welcome. Try Shot House, a place for all coffee aficionados – the good folks here even roast their own coffee beans. Or Café Piccolo for mouth-watering cakes and healthy granola bowls.

Once you’ve refueled, wander the town, taking in galleries and boutique stores.

1:40 hours' drive from Melbourne

Grab your fishing rod, kayak or walking shoes and visit Blue Rock Lake. Here you can enjoy a spot of fishing or take your dog for a paddle on the water. End a lazy afternoon at one of the barbecues, where you can sizzle up a sausage for your best friend.