It’s surprisingly hard to find places to take your pup for a short getaway or week-long holiday.

Hotels are usually a no-go, and while you can filter through dog-friendly Airbnb listings, you run the risk of discovering they’re not quite as catered to your pup as you’d hoped.

It’s left me relying on recommendations from fellow dog owners before hitting book on any kind of accommodation, which is how I first heard about Unyoked, an off-grid experience that allows furry friends.

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This September and October, the popular cabin stay is teaming up with Australian fresh dog food brand Lyka, offering a dog-first experience for you and your pup to get out into nature.

After a long weekend nestled in a secluded spot in Hunter Valley, cooking up meals on the campfire and sitting under the stars, it turns out it was exactly what my cocker spaniel Soju and I needed.

From comfy dog beds and food bowls to Lyka treats and even spare poop bags, this was the first stay I’ve experienced that truly caters for dogs.

I barely had to think about what to pack because almost everything Soju needed was already there waiting for us, plus a few extra goodies from Lyka.

Pokolbin’s off-grid cabin is just a short two-hour drive from Sydney - perfect for a weekend away. Credit: 7You

Offering two Lyka Lodges — one in Pokolbin and the other in Tarra Valley — one is a short drive from Sydney and the other from Melbourne, meaning you can escape for the weekend without the long trek.

Each cabin comes complete with everything you need for a comfortable stay: an indoor gas stove, a comfy bed, hot and cold water with a full shower, plus an outdoor firepit with plenty of wood.

The same goes for your pup, with all the essentials like a dog bed, food bowl and, of course, Lyka treats, including the Turkey Dental Jerky.

There was even a spare long-line lead, which gave Soju the freedom to sniff and explore outside without us worrying about him disappearing into nearby vineyards.

A personal favourite for Soju? Lyka’s stick library, a collection of the best shaped sticks ready and waiting.

Soju was a big fan of his Lyka stick library. Credit: 7You

While we did drive five minutes down the road to a local winery, there’s almost no reason to leave the off-grid cabin, because it offers everything you need for a cosy weekend away.

But if you’re looking for a stay that’s well positioned with plenty of food and wine spots nearby, the Pokolbin location offers exactly that.

From cooking up a dinner of homemade burgers and fries on the outdoor fire to cosying up on the bed reading a book, it was the ultimate excuse to spend time with the pup in nature.

And while there may have still been phone reception and spots a short drive away, I felt disconnected enough to relax.

Since there’s a fully functioning shower and composting toilet, it allows you to feel like you’re camping — without actually having to put up a tent.

Perfect for couples, solo dog owners and those who love an outdoor adventure, it’s a relaxing way to escape for a few days.

Both Lyka Lodges are now available to book for a minimum of two nights until October 25, 2026, with prices starting from $323 per night.

Just remember to add your furry friend to your booking for $40 per pup.

We spent the weekend either outdoors by the fire, or cuddled up reading a book. Credit: 7You