Sometimes it’s surprising what hotels allow pets to stay with you. Stepping into the luxurious lobby of the The Langham, Melbourne, with its cascading fountain and gorgeous chandelier, at first it’s hard to believe that this luxury hotel on Southbank warmly welcomes pets.
However, the impeccable five-star service at this hotel certainly extends to four-legged guests. Read on about the Pampered Pets Staycation packages at The Langham, Melbourne – the perfect option for a luxury stay with your pet in Melbourne.
Pet Policy of The Langham, Melbourne
To stay with your pet at The Langham, Melbourne, book their Pampered Pets Staycation package. Included in this package are Langham-branded pet bowls and a bed in your room, daily breakfast in bed for up to two human guests, valet parking and a pet amenity pack containing all-natural supplements and treats.
Both dogs and cats are welcome to stay at The Langham, although there is a weight limit for dogs of 20kg. Only one pet is permitted per room and there is a maximum number of pets in the hotel at any one time. A pet fee of $150 is included in the Pampered Pets Staycation package.
Dogs are required to be on a leash at all times in public areas and it is recommended that cats are brought in and out in a cat carrier. Pets are not permitted to be left alone in rooms, plus are not allowed in certain areas of the hotel, including the restaurants, spa, pool deck and swimming pool areas.
Rooms at The Langham, Melbourne
There are multiple room options available as part of the Pampered Pets Staycation package. Both dogs and cats are allowed in designated Deluxe River and Deluxe River Corner King rooms, with dogs also permitted in Executive Terrace rooms, although executive lounge access is not included.
During my stay at The Langham, Melbourne, I stayed in a Deluxe River King room. Spacious and well-appointed, the room features a marble bathroom with a full bath and Diptyque toiletries, a writing desk, a TV with hotel guide and one of the most comfortable king-sized beds I’ve ever slept on.
However, the highlight of the room is the splendid view of the Yarra River and the Melbourne skyline. My favourite seat in the room was the lounge chair with foot stool next to the window – the perfect spot to enjoy the late sunrise in Melbourne in March.
Facilities at The Langham, Melbourne
In lieu of heading to one of the restaurants at The Langham, where pets are not allowed due to standard regulations, instead make use of the in-room dining, available from early to late. In particular, breakfast in bed is included as part of the Pampered Pets Staycation package.
The extensive breakfast menu is available from 6am to 11am (check-out time of midday is standard). Both full and continental breakfast options are provided, plus an a la carte menu – I ordered the granola with fruit and organic yoghurt. The fresh, large bowl (I couldn’t finish it all!) was delivered in about 10 minutes.
Dogs and cats have not been overlooked, with a Pampered Pets Private Dining Menu also available. There are meal options for both dogs and cats (such as “Unleashed Puparazzi” featuring diced Australian beef), as well as packets of treats.
While unfortunately pets don’t have access to the swimming pool and pool deck, if there’s two of you it’s worthwhile stealing away for a quick dip. On a lower level overlooking the Yarra River, the spa pool in particularly is a relaxing spot in the evening to soak up the views, while enjoying a soak.
The hotel is also home to the Flavours of Langham gift shop. It’s the perfect spot to pick up extra supplies for your pet or a memento of your stay. Pet products available include branded collar and leads, as well as luxury dog bathing products.
For morning and evening toilet trips for your dog, there is some handy grass on the other side of the entrance driveway – just keep your dog leashed. The closest off-leash dog park is the Moray Street Reserve Fenced Dog Park, about a 12-minute walk away.
Highlights of a Stay with Your Pet
- Impeccable five-star service
- Central Southbank location
- Beautiful Melbourne skyline views
- Cute pet accessories
- Decadent breakfast in bed
Top 3 Things to Do During Your Stay
If you’re not intent on simply relaxing for your entire stay in your room, there’s plenty of fun dog-friendly attractions to enjoy close to The Langham, Melbourne, thanks to its convenient Southbank location. In particular, these are my top choices for a dog-friendly stay…
#1 Enjoy Riverside Drinks
There’s plenty of delightful riverside bars next to this stretch of the Yarra, most that welcome dogs to join you in their outdoor dining areas.
In particular, almost opposite The Langham is Afloat Capri. This floating restaurant and bar’s current incarnation is as an European beach club, complete with a small pool at one end.
While it’s probably best to avoid the pool area if your dog loves the water, instead grab one of the tables underneath the striped umbrellas and take your pick from the Italian-inspired menu. Open daily, bookings are recommended during busy periods.
Another more laid back option near Federation Square is the Riverland Bar. Ask at the bar of this urban beer garden for a water bowl for your pup, then order using the QR codes. Also open daily, a happy hour and lunch specials are on offer from Monday to Friday.
#2 Hire a Picnic Boat
Rather than just have a bite to eat and a drink next to the river, what about enjoying something right on the river, while you motor along in a picnic boat?
If you head the opposite way along the opposite bank of the Yarra, you’ll soon reach the dock of GoBoat Melbourne CBD, next to Banana Alley. Hire one of their luxury electric picnic boats for between one and three hours, with no license required.
I’ve hired one of their boats at another location, and can assure you that it’s a smooth and slow paced ride – the perfect speed to take in the scenery around you, including the row boats that train along the nearby stretch of the Yarra in the evening.
Pets are welcome to join you aboard the boats. I recommend attaching your dog’s leash to the base of the picnic table, especially if you don’t bring along a doggie life jacket. Eskies are available to hire – bring your own drinks and nibbles.
#3 Enjoy a Day Trip to the Yarra Valley
For the ultimate indulgence, combine a stay at The Langham, Melbourne with a pet-friendly day trip to the Yarra Valley, thanks to Pooches & Pinot. These private winery tours for dogs and their owners will take you to some of the best dog-friendly wineries in the Yarra.
I’ve taken one of their full day winery tours and it was a wonderful experience. Chauffeured around the Yarra Valley in our own Mercedes touring van, while we sipped and tasted, our guide ensured that our pup was looked after, with the occasional walk and regular treats.
Pick up from the door of The Langham, Melbourne is available. I recommend choosing between the full day winery tour, which includes lunch at a restaurant or cafe, or their newer Progressive Degustation Tour.
If you mention that you’re staying at The Langham, Melbourne, Pooches & Pinot will even gift you with a bottle of Yarra Valley bubbly.
Note: The author was a guest of The Langham, Melbourne, although unfortunately Schnitzel wasn’t able to make it to Melbourne this time
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About the Author
Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.