Dear Nikola, Thank you so much for contacting Pawtal about your travel plans! It sounds like you and Poppy are set for a lovely getaway to the Southern Highlands, especially for some gentle exploring.
I’ve compiled a list of dog-friendly activities, dining spots, and relaxing experiences that should suit both of you, particularly with Poppy still recovering from her surgery. Each option has been selected with comfort and ease in mind, with nothing too strenuous, just peaceful outings where you can both enjoy the scenery and unwind together.
I’ve also included links to a few of our other posts you may find helpful as you plan your journey:
- This is how to Travel Australia Solo with a Dog
- How to Plan the Perfect Road Trip with Dogs in Australia
Wishing you and Poppy a happy, safe, and memorable adventure and please don’t hesitate to share any updates or questions along the way!
Katherine and Murphy xo
Dog-Friendly Cafes
- Raw & Wild Market Café (250 Bong Bong St, Bowral): A gourmet café offering natural food for you and even a menu for Poppy! Perfect for a relaxing meal after a gentle stroll in Bowral.
- Primary Espresso (Shop 1/23 Boolwey St, Bowral): A locals’ favourite with outdoor seating and treats available for furry friends.
- The What If Society (Shop 2/366 Argyle St, Moss Vale): This café focuses on sustainability and locally sourced produce. Dogs are welcome, and they offer eco-friendly treats.
- Gumnut Patisserie (Shop 5/302 Bong Bong St, Bowral or Old Hume Hwy, Berrima): Famous for its pastries, with outdoor seating at both locations where Poppy can join you.
Gentle Walks
- Cherry Tree Walk (Bowral): A picturesque pathway lined with cherry trees. It’s ideal for light exercise and fresh air without being too strenuous.
- Berrima Self-Guided Heritage Walk: Explore the charming village of Berrima at your own pace. You can enjoy heritage sites like the Surveyor General Inn (see below), which is dog-friendly.
- Berrima Riverside Walk: This scenic walk follows the Wingecarribee River in Berrima and includes historical sites built by German merchant seamen during WWI. It’s a peaceful route suitable for dogs and ends at the Surveyor General Inn, a dog-friendly pub.
Dog Parks
- Alexandra Square Park (Edward St, Mittagong): Fully fenced and perfect for Poppy to safely stretch her legs while you relax on a bench.
- Brian Martin Oval at Centennial Park (Centennial Rd, Bowral): A contained off-leash area with shaded seating nearby.
- Jordan’s Crossing Dog Park (Railway Ave, Bundanoon): Features separate areas for small and large dogs, water bubblers, and shaded benches.
- Seymour Park (Spencer St, Moss Vale): A spacious park with picnic tables and an off-leash area.
Dog-Friendly Wineries
- Artemis Wines (46 Sir Charles Moses Ln, Woodlands): Dogs are welcome on the shaded deck while you enjoy wine tasting in this scenic vineyard.
- Bendooley Estate (3020 Old Hume Hwy, Berrima): Another beautiful winery where dogs are welcome outdoors.
Dog-Friendly Pubs
- Surveyor General Inn (26 Old Hume Hwy, Berrima): The oldest continuously run inn in Australia. Dogs are allowed inside the front bar and outdoor areas.
- Burrawang Village Hotel (14-16 Hoddle St, Burrawang): Known for its scenic gardens and great food. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor spaces.
- Scottish Arms Hotel (69 Boardman Rd, East Bowral): Features a shaded beer garden where dogs can lounge comfortably.
Pampering Options
- DOGUE Country Retreat (112 Compton Park Rd, Berrima): Treat Poppy to a spa session with grooming services like hydrobaths or paw tidying. It’s a great way to spoil her during recovery.
Shopping & Leisure
- Dirty Janes Antique Market (13 Banyette St, Bowral): Browse vintage treasures while Poppy accompanies you.
- Harry’s On Green Lane (15 Banyette St, Bowral): Enjoy lunch in a courtyard that provides water bowls for dogs upon request.
