Looking for a picture-perfect picnic spot for a date night or family outing? The Pyrenees has several parks and forests and meticulously maintained gardens, which means we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to planning a picturesque, old-school picnic. Things always taste better when enjoyed outdoors, especially if you are sampling the delights sourced from the very place you are sitting. Spring is a glorious time to enjoy a picnic so grab a bottle of Pyrenees wine and picnic blanket, stock up the hamper and discover one of the best picnic spots in the Pyrenees.
Avoca Chinese Gardens
Hidden away in Avoca, you will find the ultimate secret garden. Hidden away down a small laneway, beautifully positioned overlooking the river flats, Avoca’s Garden of Fire and Water is a delightful attraction to discover in the Pyrenees.
Reflecting the Chinese heritage within the region, this garden acknowledges the important contribution of early Chinese immigrants to Avoca during the gold rush era of 1850-1870. The garden is filled with a mixture of plants from both Australia and China and also features a traditional Chinese pavilion which provides shade to guests enjoying the garden and makes the ultimate romantic picnic spot.
Avoca Riverflat
Running through the centre of the peaceful town of Avoca sits the Avoca River which provides a scenic location for a picnic. Pack your picnic basket and settle in to watch the sunset over the Pyrenees Ranges. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on their leash. If you want to go all-out, treat yourself to a visit to the local winery cellar doors for a serious day of sampling local product.
The Avoca Riverflat is also a great location for a family picnic with a playground and skate park at either end of the Riverflat.
Avoca Waterfalls Picnic Ground
With towering gum trees, sun soaked grassy grounds and lovely nature walks, Avoca Waterfalls Picnic ground makes for one heck of a picnic spot. Bring your picnic rug and pick a spot in the sun or under a shady tree and enjoy the best of nature.
Beaufort Lake
What’s not to love about an afternoon of canoeing and canoodling by the lake (BYO blanket and canoe)! The Beaufort Lake has everything you could need for a romantic picnic or fun-filled family day. The popular weekend spot has picnic tables, toilets and free barbecue facilities, as well as walking and jogging tracks, and ample parking. After lunch, stroll along the Koori Art Trail that features 12 art installations which depict the traditional flora and fauna of the area. The best thing about waterside destinations is that there are plenty of other activities to enjoy while you picnic – think walks and trails, boating, a spot of fishing, and plenty of space to kick a ball, throw a frisbee or chill with your dog.
Sallys Paddock Redbank Winery
Many wineries have magnificent gardens, manicured lawns and all the feels of views across the vineyard. Perfect conditions for picnics and a quick Instagram photo! Sallys Paddock Redbank Winery provide their guests with a picnic to have anywhere on site. Enjoy it at cellar door while listening to a local musician, or find a location on the grounds with panoramic views of the vineyards bordered by the Pyrenees Ranges.
Ferntree Falls Picnic Ground
Take the scenic Ferntree Gully Road to the Ferntree Falls Picnic ground in Mount Buangor State Park. Take in the majestic views of towering trees and fern filled gullies while you enjoy a picnic in nature. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture those stunning Instagram worthy shots when you are presented with the natural wonders of Ferntree Waterfalls. Walk off lunch with the 1km Waterfalls Nature Walk.
Mount Cole State Forest
When the weather is on its best behaviour, there’s no easier way to enjoy nature than with a picnic. Just 35 minutes from Ballarat, the Mount Cole State Forest is scattered with stunning picnic grounds providing enchanting settings for a memorable day out with family and friends. One of our favourites is the Richards Campground where you can discover hidden secrets in the tranquillity of rocky creeks and waterfalls. Another favourite is Ben Nevis Picnic Ground which offers panoramic views of Mount Langi Ghiran and the Grampians. A truly magical location and you may even be lucky enough to see hang gliders launching off the mountain. You can find a full list of pinic and camp grounds in Mount Cole HERE.
Grab a picnic of local delights.
If you want to choose your own adventure with picnic packed and ready while exploring the Pyrenees, several of our local cafes over picnic packs and hampers to go filled with local goodies. Pick up your local picnic packs from the following cafes:
Olive and Lavendar Store, Avoca
Sallys Paddock Redbank Winery
Pyrenees Pantry
Skinny Sisters
Beaufort Church Gallery Café
Unplug and Unwind in the Pyrenees