Hello Spring!
As the weather gets better (and then worse, and then better, because y’know, Melbourne), all we want to do is to get outside and enjoy the approaching summer! So why not pack a picnic and head to these scenic havens for some rest and relaxation (before all of that hectic Christmas shopping, am I right?!)
1. Erskine Falls
Located just outside of Lorne, along the famed Great Ocean Road, this gorgeous getaway is perfect for lunchin’, and then taking a walk to see the amazing falls themselves (try ewalking under them in summer – it’s breathtaking!). With lots of parking and tables, you can eat surrounded by the incredible natural beauty of the Otways, and just a short drive back to central Lorne, one of the hubs of Victoria’s incredible coastline.
Address: Erskine Falls Access Rd, Lorne VIC 3232, Australia
2. Royal Botanic Gardens
Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens are an obvious choice; they are a huge Melbourne attraction, and central enough to the CBD to make travel easy. Situated near the Art’s Precinct, the gardens have long attracted everyone who wants a day out: great for parents, couples, families and even bring along your furry little friends!
The best spot for picnic-ing would have to be right next to the central lake, where you can watch the wildlife and even jump into a gondola for some Venetian-style recreation. As well as the many pavilions that provide shade and space to spread out your food, take a look at the tropical glasshouse and Guilfoyle’s Volcano – both brilliant attractions to round off a great day.
Address: Birdwood Ave, South Yarra VIC 3141, Australia
3. University of Melbourne
Isn’t it great that we live in a city where the places of education are just as beautiful as any park? We are lucky enough to have the best university in Australia in our city, and, founded in 1853, it has retained its old-world charm to provide us with some of the most picturesque architecture in the city.
You can hang out at South Lawn, and then move down to check out the grand old buildings, juxtaposed with more modern facades, such as the recently developed Melbourne School of Design and the Ian Potter Museum of Art. There are lots of great tucked-away food delights that make it easy to grab something tasty and kick back in an iconic Melbourne landmark.
Address: Parkville VIC 3010, Australia
4. Studley Park
This park doesn’t only offer amazing Yarra views, it also boasts the oldest operating boathouse in Australia! Only 10 minutes from the city centre, this Melbourne institution is a great place to soak up some sun with mates and kick back for a while. There is both a picnic area, and a cafe and kiosk, as well as a waterfront restaurant. The opportunity to float around on a boat/canoe/kayak makes summer feel adventurous already!
Address: Studley Park Boathouse 1 Boathouse Road, Kew, Victoria 3101
5. Jubilee Lake
A hidden gem off the beaten track of Daylesford, Lake Jubilee is a peaceful getaway that provides a great rest in the serene backdrop of rural Victoria. If you feel like packing up some snacks and going on a bit of a road trip, this is your picnic destination.
With minimal traffic, apart from the lucky locals who know about this bush secret, there is even a cafe next to the lake. Again, you can hire paddle boats, and the area is rife with birds (an abundance of peacocks!), so it makes for a fantastic day out, and head into town for more famous restaurants and spas, to complete your relaxation.
Address: 151 Jubilee Lake Rd, Daylesford VIC 3460, Australia
6. Werribee Mansion
Tucked away in the west, the Werribee Mansion is well-known for its beauty, featuring in many home-grown TV shows and movies (most recently Open Slather). However, the grounds are just as immaculate, and the perfect place to sit down and be transported back into time.
You can take tours of the mansion, even haunted tours, and learn about local history, before grabbing something to eat and enjoying the stunning, lush scenery of Werribee South. If you love the serenity that much, there are rooms to stay in at the mansion, and of course, the highest quality dining and spa treatments.
Address: K Road, Werribee South VIC 3030, Australia
7. Williamstown Botanical Gardens
These gardens have seen many a wedding, and there’s no wondering why. Combining the best of lush greenery, and a boho-beachy vibe, these gardens have so many great things going for them.
Head toward the Southern section for a shady, picnic-perfect place to chow down on some sandwiches, before moving out toward the beach on a sunny day, or even to watch some cricket. Down the road, you have tennis courts and public transport, and the opportunity to visit many cafes and restaurants that put Williamstown as a must-go-to for summer.
Address: Giffard St & Osborne Street, Williamstown VIC 3016, Australia
8. Lerderderg State Park
This state park is known for its hiking and the gorge, which provides a cool relief on those hot days. Take a picnic lunch and enjoy at one of the many rest spots, before you walk to the open gorge, with many flat rocks ready for someone to sit and enjoy the peaceful calm of the water. Plus, you’re getting fit while you’re at it! Win-win.
Address: Lerderderg VIC 3341, Australia
9. St. Kilda Pier
If you are feeling more of a head-to-the-beach vibe this summer, you won’t be disappointed with this pier; the gorgeous blue water makes you feel like you’re in a tropical paradise, and the pier is also a hive of activity. There are gorgeous restaurants nearby (the famed kiosk!) and you are close to all transport. So take the dive and have a seat on one of the most scenic places in Melbourne.
Address: Little Blue St Kilda Pier, Pier Rd, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
10. Birrarung Marr
This location is almost exclusive to picnics, and on any given sunny day you are able to see many people laying out in the sun, enjoying a bite and making this city one of the friendliest possible. By the side of the Yarra, what more could you want?
Address: Batman Ave, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Melbourne’s Scenic Picnic Spots
So if the summer makes you want to get out and about, try visiting one of the best picnic spots in Victoria for a truly peaceful and beautiful outing, with friends and family. Share with us in the comments section below if we missed out on any!