It’s time to pack up that bounty and prepare to share it with your friends (yes, all those sweets you’ve been dreaming of devouring) at one of these four cosy spots in the region. Surrounded by greenery, flowers and rabbits (of the chocolate variety) these spots will have you feeling like you’ve stepped right into an Alice in Wonderland film. Eat up!
Geelong Botanical Gardens
Nothing screams picnic more so than your local Botanic Gardens, and Geelong’s just happens to be quite special. With some particularly cosy spots (if you know where to find them) there’s plenty of shady trees, lush green grasses and pretty looking plants to distract you if the conversation lapses and you’ve run out of sweets. It’s free entry and there’s enough to walk around a browse through to burn off those calories you’d just ingested.
Where: 1-49 Garden St, Geelong
Barwon River & Buckley Falls
Pretty much the whole length of the Barwon River offers scenic spots to set down your blanket and unwrap those treats. However, there are a few that are just that little bit extra special. Head up to the river right near where the Queens Park Bridge is in Highton and you’ll find a break of pond of sorts where lily pads flourish and birds do their thang. Straight out of the Notebook! Better yet, Buckley Falls is something a little bit different, though prepare to be propped on a rock rather than lying back on a lush section of grass.
Where: Barwon River, Highton
Werribee Park Mansion
So it may not be quite in Forte territory, but head to the mansion are it is rife with A-grade pincic spots. Chances are, you’ll be so overwhelmed you’ll never get the chance to actually decide and enjoy your feast. There’s a small pond, greenery, open field, shady trees as well as plenty of floral-heavy sections of the gardens. This spot is for the ultimate picnic goers.
Where: Gate 2, K Rd, Werribee
Kennington Reserve
If it’s a struggle for you to share your sweets with friends, it’s likely you’ll also be sharing your treats with a few friends of the two-legged variety as Kennington Reserve is known for its bird population. Located just outside the heart of Bendigo, the reserve is a hidden sanctuary perfect for bird-lovers and picnic enthusiasts. Note: prepare for a bit of walking for a good spot.
Where: Reservoir Rd, Bendigo