There is nothing quite like a little road trip to explore the Tasmanian countryside, even better when you can bring along your pets. Enjoy some of the best sights and activities that the Heritage Highway has to offer without having to leave your canine companion at home.
Pet-Friendly Activities
There are plenty of wonderful things to see and do on the Heritage Highway. From wandering around the beautiful countryside to experiencing some of the local history, here are some pet-friendly activities that you can enjoy.
Stop by Old Kempton Distillery and enjoy a whiskey or two (responsibly) with your furry friend. The team at Old Kempton are big fans of dogs and their distillery features a lovely courtyard that your dog (and you) can enjoy.
Lake Dulverton in Oatlands is a great place to visit with your pets. Enjoy a stroll along the banks and spot/bark at the quirky cow sculptures in and around the lake. Why not pack a picnic and take some quality time to enjoy the scenery.
While you are in Oatlands, you can also discover the Topiary Trail. Created by a Tasmanian sculpturer and maintained by local residents, the topiaries grow in several locations around Oatlands. As you travel towards Launceston (via car this time) you can also spot some of the original topiaries along the highway.
Cross into another reality with an Augmented Reality experience on the Heritage Highway. There are a number of locations where you can experience what life was like in the Midlands many moons ago. To play, download the free Uist app via the Apple App Store or Google Play and make your way around Kempton or Oatlands to discover more. It’s a great little activity to enjoy while walking the dog but remember to only enter sites that allow pets. Alternately, enjoy the AR experience along the streets and lanes of the towns.
Enjoy a stroll around the historic Campbell Town and along Elizabeth River. Wander the incredible Convict Brick Trail, a special monument to illustrate the state’s convict history. While you are there, check out the wooden sculptures by the Red Bridge. Each of the sculptures has been carved by a chainsaw and are a tribute to Campbell Towns heritage. Further along the river and you will find a lovely pet-friendly park just north of Blackburn Park.
Experience one of Tasmania’s oldest farming properties and discover some convict history at Brickendon Estate in Longford. Take the Convict Farm Walk with your dog from Brickendon to Woolmers Estate and enjoy the beautiful English-style landscape. Please be sure to keep pets on leads and clean up after them (pets welcome at Brickendon only).
Pet-Friendly Accommodation
Take you time when visiting the Heritage Highway and stay in one of the stunning heritage towns.
The historic Brickendon Estate in Longford offers beautiful convict-built accommodation that is sure to charm your socks off. Their accommodation features beautiful farm cottages along with historic cottages that allow you to take a step back in time.
Ivy on Glenelg in Campbell Town also offers Heritage Listed accomodation. The lovely self-contained bed and breakfast has multiple rooms and a beautiful character cottage.
The quaint town of Ross is a must-visit when travelling the Heritage Highway. If you are looking for a welcoming place to stay then the Ross Motel is the place. The Motel welcomes pets and their Georgian style accommodation is sure to delight the whole family.
Elm Tree Accommodation, also at Ross, offers spacious self-contained two-bedroom suite that you and your furry friend will love. The Elm Tree is located in a quiet semi-rural setting, just a 2 minute drive or pleasant stroll to all of the activities Ross has to offer.
If you are travelling with a caravan or in a campervan, the Ross Caravan Park is the perfect place to set up for the night and is also pet-friendly.
Dog Parks and Rest Areas
For those travelling the Heritage Highway and looking for a park to stretch the legs and let their pets get some fresh air. The following rest stops are all dog-friendly.
North of Blackburn Park, Campbell Town
Mulgrave Street Reserve, Perth
The Jordan River Trail at Pontville is also a great walking track that dogs are permitted on leash.
Things to Remember
- Always talk to your accommodation venue prior to making a reservation about bringing your pet
- Be self-sufficient – bring water, food, dog bags and bedding when you travel
- Keep your dog on a leash unless you are in an off-leash area
- Give plenty of pats and cuddles (we didn’t need to tell you that though)
We love it when you share your adventures with us! Tag @MidlandsTasmania and use @MidlandsTasmania or #HeritageHighway and we’ll share our favourite photos on @MidlandsTasmania, Facebook, and in our Blog.
Header Image: Ross Bridge |Katherine Hobman
Related Posts:
Free Augmented Reality Experiences in Tasmania’s Midlands
Launceston to Hobart: The Heritage Highway Roadtrip
