For a limited time, The Wensley — a design-forward timber home set on 80 private acres in Victoria’s Surf Coast Hinterland — is inviting four-legged guests to join in the experience.
Constructed entirely from reclaimed Oregon and Ironbark and perched high on a hill, The Wensley is a modern take on rustic luxury. Its vast open spaces, roaring indoor fireplace, and warm timber interiors make it the perfect winter bolthole.
Now, with dogs officially welcomed, guests can enjoy long walks through bordering state forest trails, fireside naps, and sun-drenched valley views — with their best friend in tow.
“Guests always tell us how peaceful and grounding the space is,” says owner Fran Derham. “We figured it was time dogs got to enjoy that magic too.”To ensure a relaxing and respectful stay for all, The Wensley asks dog-owning guests to follow a short list of house rules, including bringing their own dog bedding, keeping dogs on-lead around livestock, and respecting furniture boundaries.
Perched on 80 acres of private farmland, The Wensley is a secluded retreat located on a ridgeline in Victoria’s Surf Coast Hinterland. Enjoy sweeping views over the rolling hills of Wensleydale.
While it feels completely isolated, it's just a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne and a great first stop for a trip down the Great Ocean Road. The property sits between Aireys Inlet and Lorne, just 20 minutes from the Great Ocean Road, offering a tranquil escape where kangaroos graze and city noise is replaced by the sounds of the bush.
Dog-Friendly Adventures Near The Wensley
The Wensley's location offers numerous options for you and your dog to explore.
Bushland Walks
The property backs directly onto Otway Forest Park, one of the few national parks in Victoria that allows dogs on a lead. This means you can walk straight from your door into ancient bushland. When you book, you'll receive a property guide with hand-picked walking tracks through the forest.
Coastal Outings
Both Anglesea and Aireys Inlet are nearby and offer fantastic dog-friendly spots.
In Anglesea:
O’Donohues Beach is an off-leash beach just west of Point Roadknight, accessible via a track you can find on Google Maps.
For a post-walk drink or meal, Morgans Bar and Grill and Last One Inn welcome dogs in their outdoor areas.
In Aireys Inlet:
Walk the spectacular cliff track at Split Point Lighthouse with your dog on-leash for magical views.
The beach just west of the lighthouse is off-leash at all times.
The 1.1km stretch from Fairhaven Surf Life Saving Club to Moggs Creek is also an off-leash area, perfect for a sunset stroll.
The Aireys Inlet Pub has a dog-friendly outdoor area, and the highly-regarded A La Grecque might also be able to accommodate you and your dog on their deck if you call ahead.
A Note on the 12 Apostles
While dogs are not allowed in the national park surrounding the 12 Apostles, the car park sits just outside the boundary. If the weather is cool, you can leave your dog in the car for a quick look. For a more dog-friendly coastal walk, consider the Bay of Martyrs Track near Peterborough, a stunning 4km cliff-top walk where dogs are welcome on-leash.
Dog-Friendly Escape Information
Bookings are limited. One dog per stay unless arranged in advance. Additional $100 cleaning fee applies.
For enquiries and to book, visit thewensley.com | Airbnb | Instagram
About The Wensley:
- Sleeps 10 people (5 beds)
- The Wensley is 1.5 hrs from Melbourne, in the small secluded suburb of Wensleydale, in The Surf Coast Hinterland.
- 30 minutes inland from Anglesea
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