PICNIC PERFECT!
The best spots in Oz to roll out a rug, share some nibblies and enjoy the surrounds
Hedgeley Dene Gardens, VIC
These grounds in Malvern East have some rich history – they were used as a dairy farm before transforming into a quarry and then a tip. Returned WWI soldiers planted Turkey Oaks and the gardens were developed from 1924. There’s plenty of lush grass to picnic on, along with paved walkways to explore.
Belair National Park, SA
Go bush with this rustic picnic spot. Located only 25 minutes from Adelaide’s city centre, this idyllic park not only offers scenic places to stop for a snack but plenty of land and lakes to explore, too. There are mountain biking trails to suit all experience levels, plus tennis courts and cricket pitches available for hire. There’s no way you’ll get bored on this picnic!
Cottesloe Beach, WA
For those craving a coastal outing with pals, Cottesloe Beach, affectionately known as “Cott”, is the ultimate choice. It’s a win-win – you’ve got the crisp ocean for a salty
swim and then the grassy areas to enjoy some wine and cheese. There’s also a bustling restaurant scene nearby if your picnic happens to run into the evening!
Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens, QLD
There’s no place quite as mesmerising to soak up Mother Nature as a botanic garden, and this sub-tropical beauty in Mount Coot-tha is no exception. Just 15 minutes from Brisbane’s CBD, the gardens are open 365 days a year and are not only a great spot to picnic, but also offer workshops and activities for all ages, including free guided walks to take in all the wonderful flora and fauna.
Sunset Park, NT
As the name suggests, this is a fantastic spot to relax as you watch one of the Top End’s spectacular sunsets. It’s located close to Darwin’s Nightcliff Jetty and has BBQS, bike paths, picnic tables and even exercise equipment, if you feel the need to burn off some of those finger sandwiches! If you’re after something a little more formal, you can even book events like weddings and private gatherings here with the council.
Wentworth Falls Lake Park, NSW
Situated uated in the Blue Mountains Mountains, this gorgeou gorgeous spot is nestled on the shores of, you guessed it, Wentworth Falls Lake. It’s not only a fantastic space to sit and enjoy some lunch, you can also kayak on the lake. As for the kids? Well, they’ll be preoccupied with the pirate ship playground, or bring their bike along for them to ride around the loop paths.
Uriarra Crossing, ACT
This dog-friendly spot is perfect if you’re after a post-picnic dip! Set on the banks of Canberra’s Murrumbidgee River, there are BBQ facilities, tables and plenty of parking. Oh, and your furry friends are also allowed to swim in the river – just be careful, it could be a little chilly!
Hastings Caves State Reserve, TAS
Just shy of a two-hour drive from Hobart, there’s more than just the beautiful landscape to enjoy on your picnic here. Yep, beneath the dense forest you’ll find magical, 40 million-year-old dolomite caves! Once you resurface, you can plunge into the mineral-rich thermal springs that remain 28 degrees year-round. Picnic grounds, caves and thermal springs – talk about a triple threat!