10 hotels that take pet-friendly to a new, luxurious level

Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
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These luxury pet-friendly hotels​ are levelling up the game.

Pet-friendly accommodation is nothing new in 2025, but the latest offerings are going far beyond allowing your dog to stay in the room with you. Gourmet, healthy menus specifically for your pet, free toys, high-end dog beds and more await the modern pet owner and their well-travelled pooch at these luxury pet-friendly hotels.

Of course, as a cat mum, the hotel trend I’d like to see next is specially curated cat stays. But at least your dogs are covered.

woman with her pet dog on a couch at The Langham Gold Coast, luxury pet-friendly hotels
Stay in pet-friendly style around Australia.

1. W Brisbane

The hotel chain’s Sydney and Melbourne locations offer an exclusive P.A.W. (Pets Are Welcome) Package for either your dog or (hurray) cat. Besides pet beds and bowls, your furry companion is catered for with provided clean-up bags, litter or wee pads, toys and treats as well as local pet information for a furbaby-perfect stay.

Pets Are Welcome at W Brisbane hotel
Pets are welcome at W Brisbane.

2. The Langham Gold Coast

The Langham is jumping on board the pet train with its recently released Pampered Pet Package, which aims to give your pooch their own five-star experience. Think an in-room luxury bed setup, food and water bowls, a take-home gift and a premium $80 food and beverage credit that can be used on a Private Dining Dog Menu (set to launch soon).

The Langham Gold Coast, luxury pet-friendly hotels
Let your dog relax his body and treat his palate.

3. QT Melbourne

QT Hotels was one of the first chains to bring an extended offering for their furry guests. Dubbed the ‘Pup Yeah Fur-Friendly Stay’, dogs of up to 20 kilos are welcomed to enjoy pet-centric features like a mini bar packed with dog treats, as well as an in-room dining menu designed by QT Head of Treats Nic Wood (yes, really, that’s a job title).

And now, QT has hired its own dog-cierge, Russell, naturally in charge of wellness, joy and belly rubs at the hotel. Together with Guide Dogs Victoria, QT Melbourne has launched a series of dog-friendly experiences, with proceeds supporting Guide Dogs Victoria’s life-changing work in the community. Things like Pups & Poses yoga with Soflo Studios on the hotel’s rooftop and new puppuccinos at Deli QT Melbourne.

puppy yoga at QT Melbourne
QT Melbourne is taking pet-friendly further.

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4. StandardX, Melbourne

Looking to Jet Set With Your Pet? Standard X, Melbourne has a package for that. Spend the night in a Balcony King so your dog can get some fresh air, plus find a pet bed, food and water bowls, treats and clean-up bags included. On top of that, for an extra charge, guests will have access to local pet services (subject to availability) like dog walking.

Standard X Melbourne Balcony King Room
Access local pet services with Standard X Melbourne.

5. Hyatt Centric Melbourne

Another hotel rolling out the red carpet for cats as well as dogs, the Hyatt Centric Melbourne hotel offers pet-friendly accommodation designed to help your pet relax, recharge and soak up the city vibes just as much as you do. Besides beds and bowls, take advantage of a souvenir (aka pet toy), access to a private balcony and provided doggy bags or litter tray.

Hyatt Centric Melbourne, luxury pet-friendly hotels
Let the pooches take home their own souvenirs.

6. Dorsett Melbourne

Dorsett Melbourne offers a Holidays for Hounds package. As well as in-room luxuries, you can order a gourmet meal from the hotel’s Pet Menu, created in collaboration with Jacinta Malone from Chadwick Nutrition (one of Melbourne’s top canine and feline nutritionists). This means pets dine on natural ingredients chosen to help increase longevity and health. Options include chicken meatballs, beef tartare and pup cakes. Not enough? Receive 10 per cent off orders from Supaw Bakery (a dog treat bakery) and 10 per cent off consultations with Chadwick Nutrition.

Get out and about after a discussion with the hotel’s ‘Paw-cierge’ team to discover dog-friendly spots and parks located nearby (also, dogs can ride the metro for free).

pet menu at Dorsett Melbourne
Order from the hotel’s Pet Menu.

7. Park Hyatt Melbourne 

Long known for its canine ambassadors, Park Hyatt Melbourne has welcomed Crescendo Charlie (or just Charlie for short), a six-and-a-half-year-old white Labrador retriever, into the role following the retirement of his predecessor, Mr. Walker. Focused on guest engagement and companionship, Charlie has brought his playful and affectionate energy to his new role. Guests can expect to find him exploring the hotel and greeting visitors.

Oh, and the hotel has also just introduced pet-friendly rooms. Complete with a soft toy and welcome treat, in-room pet dining menu and access to designated pet relief mats.

Crescendo Charlie, ambassedor of park hyatt melbourne
Meet Crescendo Charlie.

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8. MGallery Manly Pacific Hotel

What dog doesn’t love a frolic on the beach? And they don’t get much nicer than Manly. Something that MGallery Manly Pacific Hotel took into consideration when creating pet-friendly rooms, complete with a private balcony, direct ocean view and outdoor furniture adapted to suit pet paws. What’s more, the hotel has a special room service menu, specifically for dogs.

Think pupaccinos, Scoop Dogg Frozen Puppy Treat (homemade ice cream with peanut butter, bacon and yoghurt) and San Chow Bow Wow (nutritionally balanced snack of ground chicken, spinach, carrots, peas and brown rice, wrapped in a lettuce leaf, braised in chicken broth).

9. Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection

Book a Puppy Package at Pier One Sydney Harbour, in the heart of Walsh Bay, to receive a doggy welcome amenity on arrival, a doggy in-room minibar and dining menu (with treats and toys) and – the pièce de résistance – a pup snack breakfast buffet at Pier Bar.

puppy at pier one sydney hotel
Book the puppy package for views and treats.

10. Spicer’s Hidden Vale

Not only can you bring your own dog to Spicers Hidden Vale, but you (and your doggo) can be greeted by Wally, the cute caramel cavoodle and unofficial hotel ambassador. While being very willing to meet and mingle with guests, Wally also personally welcomes each guest’s pooch with a personalised card bearing his paw print.

Wally’s new dog friends can also enjoy walks with a provided lead, doggie bags, blanket and a long-lasting bone to give them something to chew on all vacay long.

Wally, the dog mascot of Spicers Hidden Vale
Meet Wally.

Prefer the open road? Check out our pet-friendly road trip tips and the best pet-friendly camping sites. Then pick your dining options from our favourite pet-friendly cafes around the country.

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Kassia Byrnes
Kassia Byrnes is the Native Content Editor for Australian Traveller and International Traveller. She's come a long way since writing in her diary about family trips to Grandma's. After graduating a BA of Communication from University of Technology Sydney, she has been writing about her travels (and more) professionally for over 10 years for titles like AWOL, News.com.au, Pedestrian.TV, Body + Soul and Punkee. She's addicted to travel but has a terrible sense of direction, so you can usually find her getting lost somewhere new around the world. Luckily, she loves to explore and have new adventures – whether that’s exploring the backstreets, bungee jumping off a bridge or hiking for days. You can follow her adventures on Instagram @probably_kassia.
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8 iconic ways to experience the Murray

    Gemma Kaczerepa Gemma Kaczerepa
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    No matter your interests, you’re bound to find a unique and utterly memorable experience along the mighty Murray River.

    Along the Murray River lies a network of towns that are at once intertwined and wildly diverse. Linked by the legendary waterway yet strikingly distinct, each has its own personality, pace and collection of experiences you won’t soon forget.

    1. On the river

    fishermen on Lake Mulwala
    Get out onto the pretty Lake Mulwala. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

    A visit to the region wouldn’t be complete without a jaunt on the iconic river. If you’re something of an adventurer, Lake Mulwala – an inlet on the Murray – is perennially popular for all kinds of watersports. Glide among ghost gums on a kayak or stand up paddleboard, or pick up the pace by waterskiing or windsurfing.

    For a more relaxed (but no less immersive) river experience, hop on board one of the famed paddle steamers. Departing from Echuca Moama, Swan Hill and Yarrawonga Mulwala, these historic boats provide a nostalgic view of the Murray.

    2. First Nations culture

    Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk, murray river
    Wander the Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk.

    The river is a meeting place of ancient cultures, home to over 50 First Nations clans and an integral part of their communities, storytelling and way of life.

    To learn more about the Traditional Owners, take yourself on a guided stroll through the Wagirra Trail. Situated in Albury/Wiradjuri country, the trail passes through red gum forest, riverside wetlands and the Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk.

    Alternatively, visit the Dharnya Centre in the heart of Barmah National Park on Yorta Yorta country. The centre tells the history and stories of the Yorta Yorta people, offering guided walking tours and cruises.

    3. Delicious eats

    the Mildura Boat House
    Savour a relaxed riverside meal at Mildura Boat House.

    For a representative taste of the Murray’s epicurean highlights, a few destinations are well worth your time (and appetite).

    Opa in Echuca is a local staple, serving up authentic and bold Greek dishes in lively surrounds. Greek not your thing? The twin towns of Echuca Moama have numerous top-notch drinking and dining spots to choose from and an ever-evolving food scene.

    In Albury, the River Deck Cafe is perched right on the river, delivering scenic vistas and a vibrant daytime menu. Expect lemon meringue waffles or Green Goddess smashed avo for breakfast, or a zippy duck salad with Southeast Asian flavours for lunch. For more waterfront dining options, head to Mildura Boathouse. Enjoy iconic views and a modern Australian menu focused on local producers and wines.

    4. Hiking and biking trails

    two people on bikes at Lake Boga
    Discover the Murray Region on two wheels. (Credit: Ewen Bell)

    The best ways to experience the Murray’s surrounding landscapes are on foot or by bike. Luckily, plenty of well-marked trails take you through the diverse scenery.

    The Mildura Riverfront has a shared path for both walkers and cyclists, connecting the town centre with a string of parks and lookouts. The path lets you take in the entire town and its distinctive terrain at a leisurely pace, and is relatively flat throughout.

    For a more challenging experience, head to the Huon Hill Parklands or Nail Can Hill Reserve in Albury Wodonga. Both feature a varied network of bushwalking and mountain biking trails through undulating terrain.

    5. Best views along The Murray

    swan at wonga wetlands in the murray
    Spot the birdlife at Wonga Wetlands. (Credit: Visit Albury Wodonga)

    The Murray region is perhaps unsurprisingly a prime destination for epic vistas. The Wonga Wetlands just outside Albury are an aquatic feast for the eyes, a winding web of billabongs and lagoons. Take a stroll through the tranquil landscape and see if you can spot one of the more than 170 bird species living within.

    Stop by Moama Beach at sunset to catch the dazzling display. Vivid hues of pink, amber and gold flare against a backdrop of river red gum trees and are reflected in the river’s glassy waters.

    Head away from the Murray itself, 15 mins from Albury Wodonga, for stunning mountain views at Lake Hume. Or head to Gunbower National Park, a picturesque place boasting a diverse wonderland of waterbirds, wildlife and aquatic plants.

    6. Art and culture

    People viewing art at Murray Art Museum.
    Immerse yourself in art at the MAMA, Albury. (Tourism Australia)

    The region’s diverse mix of galleries, museums and cultural hubs provides a window into its past and present.

    One of the most prominent is Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA), which has a rotating roster of contemporary exhibitions. The Burrajara Gallery is another Albury gem, with a powerful collection of works from local First Nations artists.

    There are several smaller museums and galleries scattered across Echuca Moama and Mildura reflecting the artistic depth of the Murray. Popular picks include The Foundry Arts Space and Customs House Gallery in Echuca Moama, and the Arts Centre, Riverfront Gallery and NAP Contemporary in Mildura.

    7. Murray Region Events

    band on stage at Riverboats Music Festival
    Time your trip around one fo the regions live music events. (Credit: Riverboats Music Festival)

    Each year, the Murray hosts events as unique and characterful as the region itself.

    The Massive Murray Paddle takes place every November, a 415-kilometre, five-day river paddle raising money for local charities. Whether you take part in a canoe, kayak, stand up paddleboard or boat, or watch from the riverbanks, you’ll be in for a memorable experience.

    If you’re a music lover, you’re in luck throughout the year. In summer, plan a trip for Riverboats Music Festival. And in the cooler months, head to the Echuca Moama Winter Blues Festival for four days of performances across different venues.

    8. Best stays along The Murray

    the Cozy Dome at Charm Lodge accommodation
    Find unique stays by the river or in the countryside.

    Throughout your busy few days of exploring, you’ll need a comfortable spot to rest.

    Echuca Moama Riverside Holiday Park is right on the river and has gorgeous views. Pick from riverfront and pet-friendly lagoon cabins, or set up camp at one of the powered sites set among native bush. Or head into the countryside to stay in the quaint glamping or lodge options of Charm Lodge.

    Alternatively, treat yourself to a night or two at The Sebel Yarrawonga Silverwoods, which has stylish modern rooms and luxe amenities. There’s a heated infinity pool, day spa and an on-site restaurant doing elevated fare with local produce.

    For a quintessential Murray experience, hire a houseboat from one of the many operators in Mildura. Available for weekend and week-long adventures, these well-appointed boats immerse you in the leisurely rhythm and quiet beauty of the Murray River.

    Discover what’s new on The Murray at visitthemurray.com.au