+34
A writer takes her 30-kilogram greyhound Junior to Unyoked's pet-friendly Lyka Lodge in the Hunter Valley, combining wine tasting with an off-grid cabin stay.
A spontaneous weekend away used to mean throwing a toothbrush and pyjamas into an overnight bag. Now it requires planning to pin down a dog-sitter, or the easier but less exciting option of simply declining the invite.
My perfect holiday would be to bring Junior along, but most accommodation is not pet-friendly, especially for a 30-kilogram greyhound. So when I learned that Unyoked's secluded and off-grid cabins dotted around Australia offer pet-friendly options, I grabbed Junior and his lead and hit the highway to the Hunter Valley, three hours north from our home in Sydney.
Tintilla Estate Wine Tasting
For one last civilised hurrah before two nights in nature, we stopped at Tintilla Estate in Pokolbin for a wine, meat and cheese tasting. I was running late for my reservation, a result of my first time travelling with Junior, and was about to start my flurry of apologies when I was greeted with a calm No worries from the owner.
Sitting in the sun, looking over the rolling vineyard, with lunch and a beverage, I let go of my flustered state. I was pleased to discover that many wineries in the Hunter Valley allow dogs outside. Even the hatted restaurant welcomes them. While plenty of the Unyoked tiny cabins welcome both dogs and cats, the company has also teamed up with Australian dog food company Lyka to offer the Lyka Lodge at Pokolbin, creating perhaps the most dog-friendly holiday imaginable.
For southern travellers, there is also a Victorian Lyka Lodge in the Tarra Valley, south-east of Melbourne. Once I arrived and parked at the site, Junior and I started out on a short walk through the bush to our cabin. Anticipating the trip, I gave myself a pep talk about how I would embrace and immerse myself in nature, something that comes naturally to Junior. I was greeted by a mob of kangaroos idling in a paddock.
Unyoked Solar Cabin Features
A wild rabbit sprinted in the nearby foliage. A goanna startled Junior and me as it hissed and climbed the nearest tree. The cabin itself is built with sustainably sourced timber and powered by solar energy, and features a composting toilet. It is furnished with cookware, a cosy bed and hot water.
Just enough to disconnect from modern life, but to enjoy a comfortable stay. For the pup guest, it includes a large bed, hygiene wipes and spray, a dog bowl, and much-appreciated dental treats. There is also an extra-long dog lead to allow Junior to explore safely.
In addition, the cabin includes a guide to starting a campfire. Junior and I wandered around our surrounding area, picking up sticks and kindling, ready to pretend we were in an episode of a wilderness show. By nightfall, I was so excited to cook dinner of grilled corn and jacket potatoes over the campfire that I almost forgot to look up at the clear night sky full of stars.
Morning Routine And Yoga
The next day I woke to the early sunrise and a chorus of birds. I took my time preparing coffee. I ground the coffee beans with the provided hand grinder and meditatively watched the moka pot boil over. After I used the provided yoga mat to stretch outside, Junior woke from his nap in the sun to join me in an impressive downward dog.
We took a walk, bird-watching along the way, an activity I love but rarely find the time for, or the variety of birds, in the city. Back at our tiny home, we dedicated some more time towards rest. Junior sprawled out on a picnic blanket and napped in the sun, I intermittently read and dozed in the hammock. It turns out I am pretty good at doing nothing.
I found myself spending time just sitting and thinking, not of my to-do lists and what to achieve next, but simply contemplating. Why don't I make time to do this more? is one thought that floated by often. By the evening, the bird song had quietened. To fill the silence, I put on one of the provided CDs and found myself dancing while preparing dinner.
Campfire Marshmallows Stargazing
At least I was so remote that no one could see me, besides the judgement-free eyes of Junior. Later, he and I snuggled by the fire, roasting marshmallows and watching the stars. I enjoyed witnessing him get in touch with his wild side. The whole experience would be great without Junior, but bringing him with me makes it special.
Before checking out on our last morning, I soaked up every last drop of relaxation. I did some yoga outdoors, we bird-watched and I made one last hearty meal and slowly brewed coffee, while dancing to the CD. The cabin has worked its magic and massaged the knots of stress out of my mind. As I walked back into the real world, I vowed to carry some part of this calmness I have found with me.
With ideas like, Once I get back, I am going to slow down and savour my time. Realistically, I know it probably won't last. But at least I know the cabin will be there for an easy, spur-of-the-moment getaway in nature, with my best mate, Junior.
smh
theage:This story was compiled and edited by the HeadTopics newsroom and HT AI from the reports above.
Pet-Friendly Cabins Hunter Valley Lyka Lodge Dog-Friendly Travel
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News: You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Essay Argues Queues Offer Mindfulness and a Lesson in How to LiveAn essay published this week argues that standing in line is a form of mindfulness and a lesson in how to live, drawing on the author's accidental two-hour wait at Osaka's Super Nintendo World.
Read more »
Aussies urged to apply for hundreds of jobs on offer in Antarctica‘It’s like living in a wildlife documentary.’
Read more »
Renault Symbioz deal sees drive-away prices slashed by $4000The Renault Symbioz is receiving $4000 discounts shortly after its local launch, with the offer available until December 31.
Read more »
Mark Nawaqanitawase considering NRL return as Roosters prepare massive offerMark Nawaqanitawase is seriously considering a return to rugby league after his Japanese rugby stint, with the Roosters prepared to make him the highest-paid winger in the NRL.
Read more »