Xenia Park at Helensvale great spot for off-leash dog park: Backyard Tourist

Residents may think they’ve visited every dog park on the Coast in the gallant quest for new doggie adventures. But as you can see by Gracey’s grinning face, this one’s a gem — and no one even knows about it.

It’s a yes from Gracey. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

IS there anything more joyful than a dog bouncing around without a care in the world at an off-leash dog park?

I can’t think of any, and all it took was a short walk followed by some time off-leash at Helensvale’s Xenia Park.

The park, which has only been around for a short while, winds itself around the edge of The Surrounds estate.

THE TRANQUIL, COASTAL WALK IN A GOLD COAST RESERVE

Xenia Park obviously has the paw of approval from Gracey. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

It’s bordered by bushland, so as you walk along the footpath you can still hear the birds singing in the distance.

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But best of all, it’s quiet. I saw a handful of people taking their dogs out, but none of them crossed our path.

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Xenia Park at Helensvale on the Gold Coast. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

I don’t know what this is, but it looks nice I guess. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

Native trees and shrubs are planted in attractive clumps, with other native trees newly planted along the outer edge.

To get to the park, I’d recommend parking past the Laurel Drive roundabout on Amazon Circuit.

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A picnic table right next door to the dog park. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

Just following the footpaths. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

UPPER COOMERA EASEMENT A SLICE OF PARADISE

That way you start on the edge of the green space and can walk the entire length.

Half way through the walk there’s a small enclosed, off-leash dog park. And again — no one was there.

The dogs did their zoomies (hence Gracey’s crazy face) and we continued on our walk, which then takes you past a sort of lake.

There’s plenty of benches to sit on along the way and the dog park also has a shaded picnic area.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE … DO

Sanctuary Cove. Photo: Supplied

IF the gang is fanging for a feed and maybe even some shopping after their walk, head over to Sanctuary Cove.

The up-market marine village is pet friendly and there’s plenty of shops to venture into as you meander through the small streets.

Grab an ice cream at Movenpick, or sit down at one of the tables at the many restaurants for a quick bite to eat.

There’s often a live band or something on during the weekends too, so you’re bound to find something to your liking.

DISCOVER

Gracey and Mochi at Saltwater Dog Park in Helensvale. Picture: Amanda Robbemond

ONE of the doggies’ favourite off-leash areas is Saltwater Park, close by in Helensvale again.

This park is larger, but also more popular in the morning and afternoons, so you will come across a handful of dogs most times you visit here.

However, it boasts the best thing of all — it’s very own doggie beach, plus squishy mud for those cheeky pooches to plod around in.

You can even take a seat on the big rocks in the middle of the grass and watch the dogs chase each other around and around and around.

EAT AND DRINK

Bresaola Dry Cured Eye Fillet thinly sliced served with Truffle Pecorino Cheese topped with a Rocket olive Oil Vinegar Salad Photo: David Clark

At Ioesco at Sanctuary Cove, there’s a little something for everyone.

With a relaxed but classy vibe, the restaurant offers lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday every week.

And not only do they have a vegan menu, but they also have a vegetarian and gluten free menu.

Most importantly though, they have a dessert and wine list too.

Mouth watering dishes on offer include garlic prawns in a creamy brandy sauce, potato croquettes with salami and ham, as well as risotto with roasted eggplant and napoli sauce or gnocchi finished with smoke mozzarella.