Discover the best dog friendly wineries in NSW: Ultimate Wine Country Drive
Total Distance: 900km
Driving Time: 12h
Travelling with dogs is great way to explore Australia. Our furry friends love exploring new places and travelling with them ensures we get to see places we would perhaps otherwise skip (think beautiful dog friendly hikes & walks).
NSW offers plenty of dog friendly roadtrips along the coast or in the highlands but if you and your dog love visiting dog friendly wineries, this is the ultimate roadtrip to explore with your dog.
It will take you from stunning beaches in the Central Coast NSW to iconic wine regions of Hunter Valley, Mudgee and Orange and finally on your way back you get to explore some of the most amazing dog friendly hikes in the Blue Mountains. That’s right, not all of the Blue Mountains are National Parks but there are also State Forest areas that allow dogs.
Our day trip planner is obviously here just for the guidance and you can always do the trip at your own pace or just do part of the journey. Some alternatives could be to return back to Sydney from Hunter Valley or Mudgee, making the journey a perfect weekend away with your dog.
DAY 1 – From Sydney to Hunter Valley via Central Coast
Distance: 200km
Central Coast is about 90mins drive from Sydney and has plenty of dog friendly places on offer. On your way to the dog friendly beaches around Terrigal you will drive pass the dog friendly Bay Road Brewing in Gosford, which is worth a stop for a refreshment or take aways.
In Terrigal, start the day by heading to one of the many dog friendly beaches such as Avoca Beach or Wamberal Beach for some off leash action. There are some great dog friendly cafes near the beaches such as Bellyfish Cafe to have some brekkie or a coffee while enjoying the ocean views.
From Terrigal head north towards The Entrance where you have another opportunity to visit a dog friendly North Beach and plenty more dog friendly cafes such as The Glass Onion Society, Cafe Escape or The Entrance Hotel.
Continue your journey towards Hunter Valley for Day 2 of your trip. Below are some great dog friendly accommodations in the Hunter Valley to choose from.
Dog Friendly Accommodation in Hunter Valley
DOG FRIENDLY LODGE | Glendon Brook
Guests 4 | Bedrooms 2
Located on the picturesque 100 acre cattle grazing property in the Glendon Brook district. The property has been owned by the family for 4 generations, since leaving Ireland in the 1850″s. Private Winery / Cheese /Chocolate Tasting Tours with Local operators are available to the Pokolbin Vineyards. Having worked in the wine industry for over 27 years, your host has an excellent knowledge of the area and wineries/ restaurants and is happy to help you find great places to visit.
DOG FRIENDLY RETREAT | Pokolbin
Guests 8 | Bedrooms 3
This recently lovingly restored dog friendly Mine Managers Cottage now enjoys all the modern conveniences. The character rich home is a perfect escape for family and friends (furry ones included), wedding and reunions. The pool and entertainment area are perfect for a sunset drink which your enjoy the uninterrupted views of the Broken Back Range. Please be aware that due to the council regulations, dogs are not allowed in the pool, however there are several dams in the property that are perfect for the pups to have a swim.
DAY 2 – Dog Friendly Cellar Doors in Hunter Valley
Hunter Valley is full of dog friendly Cellar Doors to visit. We have listed some of our favourites below. If you want to opt for a COMPLETE hands off approach and leave it to the real pros to organise your dog friendly Cellar Door experience, we highly recommend to check out:
GRAPE TO GLASS – dog friendly winery tours
Dog Friendly Wineries in Hunter Valley
BRIAR RIDGE
Mount View
Briar Ridge welcomes all well-behaved pooches to sit back and relax at the pooch hydration station or burn off some energy romping around (supervised) in the open spaces at Briar Ridge Vineyard. And whilst the pooches are at play we invite their owners to taste their way through our selection of estate grown Hunter classic and modern marvel wines. We also offer a range of local cheese and antipasto platters for wine tasters and a ‘Briar Ridge Pooch Platter’ from our friends at Jollie Gourmet Dog Treats for the four legged treat connoisseur.
IRON GATE ESTATE
Pokolbin
This picturesque estate is home to a 25-acre vineyard, state-of-the-art winery, and a striking cellar door inspired by the grand villas of the Mediterranean. Cool in summer and warm in winter, this welcoming retreat features handcrafted Spanish tiles, iron-bark beams, air conditioning and a cosy fireplace.
PEPPER TREE WINES
Pokolbin
Peppertree offers a unique and relaxed experience set amongst spectacular landscaped gardens that surround the property, and continuing to receive high accolades and 5 star ratings for their premium wines. The house dog Spence is always there to welcome you and your dog for a relaxing winery experience.
HANGING TREE WINES
Pokolbin
The Hanging Tree vineyard property consists of 60 undulating acres, eighteen acres of which are under four vine varieties: Chardonnay, Semillon, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. These vines are more than 15 years old, with the oldest Shiraz vines at 45-50 years. This, coupled with the rich clay soil has contributed to the success of the award winning wines. Resident Labs form a tail wagging welcoming ceremony!
For the full list of dog friendly wineries in Hunter Valley, check out our detailed guide to the area!
But there is more to Hunter Valley than just Cellar Doors. Make sure you visit some of the cafes and restaurants while you are in the area.
Dog Friendly Restaurants in Hunter Valley
HUNTER VALLEY SOCIAL
Rutherford
TURBO CHARGED ESPRESSO BAR
Mulbring
RUSTY JACKS
Rothbury
BISTRO MOLINES
Mount View
DAY 3 – From Hunter Valley to Mudgee
Distance: 240km
Drive to Mudgee takes just over three hours so make sure you have a good walk with your dog in the morning. After about an hours drive you will pass the town of Denman, which is worth a visit. There are plenty of heritage buildings in town and if you didn’t dry your thirst in the Lower Hunter, there are couple of dog friendly wineries such as Small Forest Wines near Denham.
Dog Friendly Accommodation in Mudgee
DOG FRIENDLY RETREAT | Mudgee
Guests 10 | Bedrooms 5
A place to unwind & relax. Escape to this private modern dog friendly country retreat accommodation in the heart of the Mudgee wine region. Set upon 25 acres high amid the beautiful rolling pine hills of Riverlea, and with breathtaking views of the green hills on one side and open grass land on the other, with complete privacy in an exquisite modern country setting. Relax and cool down in our unique double deck mineral swimming pool during the summer or pamper yourself with a hot outdoor bath while sipping a glass of Mudgee’s finest wine. Or gather besides the crackling fireplace or outdoor firepit during winters and gaze at the night sky. Bring your family or besties to this unique property for some country R&R away from the city where fresh air awaits and the stars shine bright.
DOG FRIENDLY HOUSE | Mudgee
Guests 8 | Bedrooms 3 | FROM $400
Dog friendly accommodation with all the luxuries you would expect to make your short break memorable. The covered deck enables you to enjoy a barbie on the built in BBQ whatever the weather and the outdoor fridge ensures your drinks are accessible while you relax. The outdoor fire pit, complete with cushions, is perfect for the cooler nights and indoor wood burner great for the winter nights. There is plenty of wood always available. The large fenced grassy area will provide space for your dogs and kids to run around or play games. Wi-Fi, the large Smart TV with a Blueray/DVD player and the bluetooth speaker will keep everyone entertained. Linen & towels provided along with tea, coffee (filter, pod & instant), bread, cereals and milk. We have a pantry stocked with general essentials and a herb garden which guests are encouraged to use.
Dog Friendly Wineries in Mudgee
LOWE FAMILY WINES
Mudgee
Lowe Family Wine Co is an organic & biodynamic winery located in Mudgee, NSW. With a sprawling vineyard, gardens, and friendly farm animals, visitors have a range of ways to experience the property. Enjoy a tailored wine tasting on the outdoor terrace or picnic on the lawns with a local produce platter. Dogs are welcome to join you in the cellar door and around the property, as long as they are friendly and keep their distance from the farm animal
MOOTHI ESTATE
Mudgee
Located on the northwest facing slopes of Mount Frome, dog friendly Moothi Estate offers award-winning wines, spectacular views and generous lunch platters. Dogs are welcome to join owners in the cellar door and there is air-conditioned indoor seating and heated outdoor seating for the cooler months. They even have two cellar door dogs of their own who love to play with guests.
Dog Friendly Cafes & Bars in Mudgee
ALTHEA BY ZIN
Mudgee
Althea by Zin is a dog friendly cafe & bakery located in downtown Mudgee on the corner of Church & Horatio Street. You will find the selection of fresh breads, pastries, savouries & coffee, open daily from 7am till 2pm.
Althea by Zin is named in honour of Kim Currie’s mother and the love for baking she has passed down through three generations. As such, Althea combines traditional methods with the best ingredients we can source, including fresh produce from the organic & biodynamic Lowe Family Wine Co farm and local businesses who share our ethos.
Treats available for furry customers, who are always welcome at the outdoor seating area.
THREE TAILS BREWERY & SMOKEHOUSE
Mudgee
Three Tails is a dog friendly brewery in Mudgee. 18 Craft Beers on tap, local wines and produce, artisan wines and spirits, on site brewery and slow cooked Texan style BBQ brought to you by Smokin Bro. Everything sourced from 100% independent sources. Dogs are welcome everywhere in the brewery.
For the full list of Mudgee & Orange activities, check out our Ultimate Dog Friendly Guide to the area.
DAY 4 – From Mudgee to Orange
Distance: 190km
You may well decide to stay an extra day in Mudgee (we wouldn’t blame you for doing so) before embarking to the 2.5h drive to Orange. You can find plenty of dog friendly wineries, cafes and accommodations from our guide.
On your arrival to Orange, we highly recommend to take full advantage of the dog friendly walks Orange has to offer such as Wirrabarra Walk and Orange Botanical Gardens.
Dog Friendly Wineries in Orange
PHILIP SHAW WINES
Orange
Dog friendly cellar door at Philip Shaw Wines offer cool climate wines of elegance – book your tasting experience. Dogs are welcome on the covered outdoor seating area.
HEIFER STATION
Borenore
With its undulating hills and elevation of up to 900 metres it offers the perfect location for producing premium cool climate wine. Phillip and Michelle Stivens purchased Heifer Station in 2009. A run-down vineyard that had been lockup by its offshore owners for the previous 5 years. With the vineyard barely visible from overgrown blackberries Phillip and Michelle planned to push the vineyard out and return to their roots of running fat cattle, enjoying the slower life.
Dog Friendly Cafes and Pubs Orange
FACTORY ESPRESSO
Orange
Factory Espresso in Orange is not your average café — and that’s exactly why you and your pup are going to love it. Housed in a converted Repco garage, this industrial-cool space has been transformed into one of regional NSW’s most exciting café experiences, with a warm, welcoming vibe that instantly feels like home. The coffee here is next-level — roasted on-site using their award-winning Kite Coffee range on a state-of-the-art Loring roaster, one of the most eco-friendly roasters in the world. How cool is that? The wholesome, affordable food hits the spot every time, whether you’re a local or just passing through Orange. Your furry mate won’t miss out either, with healthy Kangaroo treats to keep them happy while you sip on something seriously special. Dog lovers, coffee nerds, and good-food seekers — this one’s for you. Get yourself to Factory Espresso and see what the fuss is about! 🐾
THE UNION BANK HOTEL
Orange
The Union Bank has a beautiful dog friendly courtyard (provided the dogs are on a lead) with plenty of trees providing some shelter. Note that the areas is not properly covered and not suitable for seating in case of rain.
DAY 5 – From Orange to Blue Mountains
Distance: 150km
Easy 2 hour drive from Orange takes you all the way to Katoomba, however we recommend you to stop along the way as there are some amazing leg stretching opportunities.
Lake Lyell is a unique recreational area just before entering the Blue Mountains. Your dog can even go for a swim in this man made lake that was originally built in 1982 by Delta Electricity for the Mount Piper and Wallerawang Power Stations.
Dog Friendly Accommodation in Blue Mountains
DOG FRIENDLY LODGE | Megalong Valley
Guests 4 | Bedrooms 2 | FROM $295
Sunrise Lodge is wonderfully quiet and secluded dog friendly accommodation – perfect for a romantic weekend – or a place to relax, unwind and experience the magic of mountain life. Nestled on the edge of the boutique vineyard with magnificent escarpment views across the Megalong Valley, it offers an unforgettable self-catered holiday experience. Purpose designed, the lodge comprises two large bedrooms each with an en-suite bathroom, spacious central living area with open fire and a fully-equipped kitchen and large deck.
DOG FRIENDLY HOMESTEAD | Megalong Valley
Guests 8 | Bedrooms 3 | FROM $545
The Homestead offers enough entertaining areas to enjoy your stay without ever leaving this dog friendly property. Set on top of a ridge overlooking the vineyard, this dog friendly accommodation enjoys spectacular views of the Blue Mountains sandstone escarpment that is transformed into bright orange and pink colours at sunset.
DOG FRIENDLY HOMESTEAD | Rydal
Guests 2 | Bedrooms 1
Peaceful location, fully self contained spacious tiny house.
We leave out a key on your arrival and leave you to enjoy the entire stay undisturbed but we do stay on the property if help is needed. It is a rural property so Telstra and Optus are the best providers within the local area. If you require wifi and internet access please use the hotspot on your phone as we don’t provide wifi .
Pamper yourself to an outdoor bath additional cost of $15 per bath includes essential oil lavender bubble bath with hot and cold water . limit of one bath per day we are on tank water so it is expensive to deliver so have to charge extra for baths ( please advise prior to arrival ) indoor shower is available if you don’t want to have the outdoor bath . Please be aware it is an unsealed driveway aprox 1 km long and a bit bumpy in spots but still accessible. Only exception is for sports cars with low profile wheels that don’t wish to go off bitumen ( we have a Hyundai i30 ) you don’t need a 4WD.You will need a property map as it is on 200 acre property.
DOG FRIENDLY CAMPING | Oberon
Reconnect with nature at our peaceful, pet-friendly bush campsites in Oberon NSW
For those seeking a more back-to-nature escape, Kenzell Farm offers four private, self-sufficient campsites nestled across our working cattle farm on the western edge of the Blue Mountains. Surrounded by wide paddocks, gentle hills, and starry night skies, our campsites provide the perfect mix of serenity, space, and farm charm.
Enjoy the freedom of pet-friendly camping, bring your own firewood for a crackling campfire, and fall asleep to the sounds of wildlife all around you. These unpowered bush camping sites are ideal for caravans, camper trailers, or tents — with easy access and flat ground.
Wake up to the sight of cattle grazing nearby, and don’t be surprised if kangaroos, wombats, or wallabies hop past your tent. You might even spot a platypus in the creek or deer at dusk.
During the day, campers are welcome to visit the friendly animals across the farm — from cheeky goats and alpacas to camels, pigs, donkeys, and our photogenic Highland cattle.
Dog Friendly Walks in Blue Mountains
There are plenty of great dog friendly hikes around the Blue Mountains National Park. We highly recommend to explore South Lawson Waterfall Circuit, Fairy Bower, Terrace Falls and Zig Zag tracks, which are all approximately 3-5km long medium grade bush tracks or you can opt in for one of the oldest tracks in the Blue Mountains, 5km dog friendly Porters Pass in Blackheath.
Dog Friendly Bars in Blue Mountains
DRYRIDGE ESTATE
Megalong Valley
Nestled in the beautiful Megalong Valley surrounded by towering sandstone escarpments, dog friendly winery Dryridge Estate is a stunning boutique vineyard 20 minutes by car from Blackheath, the nearest Blue Mountains township. Visit the Cellar Door and enjoy delicious wines, cheese platters and some of the best scenery in the Blue Mountains
MOUNTAIN CULTURE BEER
Katoomba
Mountain Culture Beer Co is a dog friendly brewery pub in the fully restored iconic “Echo” building in Katoomba. Dogs are welcome to join you for a drink at the covered outdoor seating area.
DAY 6 – Return to Sydney
Distance: 120km (150km via Bilpin)
Home sweet home! It is time to return back to Sydney. If you still feel adventures and up for a more scenic way back home, take the Bells Line of Road through Bilpin. Enjoy the beautiful NSW country side and stop in Bilpin for one of the two dog friendly cider cellar doors, Bilpin Cider or Hillbilly Cider (they are literately next to each other).
There is also a great Dog Friendly Accommodation option in the area if you are not quite ready to head home.
DOG FRIENDLY COTTAGE | Grose Vale
Guests 4 | Bedrooms 2
Magnolia Cottage is a pet & dog friendly holiday accommodation in Grose Vale, the lower Blue Mountains / Hawkesbury area. Magnolia Cottage, named after the glorious Magnolia tree beside it, is a traditional settler-style log cabin with two bedrooms (a queen and a twin). Fresh linen and towels are provided and the beds have electric blankets. There’s a basic kitchenette and private BBQ to cater for a simple meals. The cottage boasts open fire and air-conditioning/heating as well as a double bath with jets. Looking out over your vast front yard of an acre or more you can see the birds flit across the sun bathed lawn. A stream passes by the cabin and the sounds of the small waterfalls are heard throughout the valley.