The best picnic spots around Australia
During summer, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better option than shaking out the picnic rug (or finding a picnic table) to share some food with the ones you loved most. With so many prime picnic spots in Australia with breathtaking views, here are our picks of the best spots to enjoy some food, some bubbles and the sunny weather.
NEW SOUTH WALES
Mrs Macquaries Point, Mrs Macquarie Road, Royal Botanic Garden
One of the most popular picnic spots in Sydney but with one very good reason: it gives you an uninterrupted spectacular view of the Sydney skyline from Opera House to the Harbour Bridge.
Wendy’s Secret Garden, Lavender St, Lavender Bay
A hideaway amongst the skyscrapers, this once derelict space has been transformed by Wendy Whiteley after the death of her artist husband Brett Whiteley. With winding paths, fig trees and native plants, this picnic spot also has great views of the iconic Opera House and Harbour bridge.
VICTORIA
Hanging Rock Reserve, South Rock Road, Woodend
Despite the eerie mystery of the novel and film Picnic at Hanging Rock, this is still a popular picnic destination. With striking volcanic rock formation, including the eponymous hanging rock, the enchanting spot enjoys fine views and a serene atmosphere. The local region with wineries and farms will provide everything for a gourmet picnic.
National Rhododendron Gardens, The Georgian Road, Olinda
Perfect to picnic in during summer surrounded by 15,000 rhododendrons, 12,000 azaleas, 3000 camellias and 250,000 daffodils. Enjoy a picnic lunch as you observe the native birdlife then take a stroll through the dazzling colours of the garden.
QUEENSLAND
Kangaroo Point Cliffs, 461 Main Street, Kangaroo Point.
You can pick from a picnic atop the cliffs at the Kangaroo Point Park or down by the river where there are tables and BBQs. Either way, the view of the city skyline is spectacular, even more so during dusk.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Mt Lofty Botanical Gardens, Summit Rd or Piccadilly Rd, Crafers
Overlooking the Piccadilly Valley, you will enjoy breathtaking scenes in this picturesque picnic spot. The garden collection comes from all over the world such as South America, China, Eat Africa and North America. Enjoy a picnic by the lakeside before going on leisurely stroll through one of the several walking trails.
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Kings Park and Botanic Garden
With so many picnic areas dotted around the park as well as BBQ facilities and playgrounds, Kings Park is a favourite for picnicking. With the best views of Perth, it makes for a fun day out for everyone.
Heathcote Reserve, Duncraig Road Applecross
Sitting high on a hill, Heathcote Reserve provides panoramic views of the Swan River. With a playground, picnic tables and BBQs, this reserve is a lovely spot for an outing with the family.
TASMANIA
Cataract Gorge Reserve, 74-90 Basin Rd, Launceston
With BBQ facilities, children’s playgrounds and even the occasional peacock strutting around, it is the perfect spot to picnic while admiring the remarkable gorge.