Picnics are one of my favourite springtime activities. Aside from being relaxing and affordable, who doesn’t love soaking up the sunshine with good food and fresh air? Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic interlude or a sunny afternoon with family and friends, picnics allow you to immerse yourself in nature and take a step away from life’s hustle and bustle. This makes them perfect for any occasion.
You don’t need much to become a pro picnicker! Go by yourself and take a good book, grab some friends and a picnic rug, or pack a feast and share it with family. As you’re heading out in to the sunshine, be sure to check out these top spots for a picnic in Canberra.
National Botanic Gardens
Acton
www.anbg.gov.au/gardens/
Botanic gardens are a popular spot for picnics given the abundance of flowers and scenery. Canberra’s stunning National Gardens are no exception. As you take a stroll among the landscaped grounds, you’re bound to find your perfect picnic spot nestled in the green grass. You might even see a few kangaroos hopping between the trees.
Canberra Nara Peace Park
Yarralumla
www.events.act.gov.au/nara
This quaint and pretty park looks out from a shelter of trees and monuments on to the shimmering waters of the lake. Culturally significant, the park symbolises the friendship between Canberra and its Japanese sister-city, Nara, and is a great spot for a quieter picnic. Nara Peace Park is located within Lennox Gardens on the south side of Lake Burley Griffin.
Commonwealth Park
Parkes
www.visitcanberra.com.au/attractions/9006251/commonwealth-park
Commonwealth Park is the perfect place to soak up Canberra’s skyline. Suited to romantic occasions and family days alike, the sheer size of the park means there are plenty of picnic spots to explore. Lounge beneath the willows and take in views of the lake, gazing out at Parliament House and the National Library of Australia. Jut watch out for the bats around sunset. Things can get, umm….messy.
Cotter Reserve
Cotter
www.visitcanberra.com.au/attractions/9002920/cotter-avenue-recreation-area
If you’re looking to get out of town for a picnic, Cotter Reserve is a great escape. With allocated picnic areas, shady trees, and a creek for a refreshing swim in summer, it has all of the ingredients for a great day out. For families, there’s a children’s park and BBQ area, and the Reserve is only a short drive from Canberra.
John Knight Memorial Park
Belconnen
www.tams.act.gov.au/parks-conservation/parks-and-reserves/find-a-park/urban-parks/john-knight-memorial-park
This spacious lakeside spot has waterfalls, picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and playgrounds. There’s plenty to do, so this is a great choice for those wanting to move easily from picnic to play. For more relaxed picnickers, you can still lay back and listen to the birds as you take in views of Lake Ginninderra.
Tuggeranong Town Park
Greenway
www.tams.act.gov.au/parks-conservation/parks-and-reserves/find-a-park/urban-parks/tuggeranong-town-park)
Do you live further south and want a picnic spot closer to home? There’s a gorgeous lakeside spot right on your doorstep. The popular park has recently undergone a number of upgrades and improvements, which are now open for spring picnickers to enjoy.
Pine Island to Point Hut Reserve
Greenway
www.tams.act.gov.au/parks-conservation/parks-and-reserves/find-a-park/murrumbidgee-river-corridor/pine-island
If you’re en route to Tidbinbilla, stop at Pine Island to Point Hut Reserve for a picnic. Pine Island is nestled alongside the beautiful Murrumbidgee River, and is connected by trail to Point Hut Reserve. With great hill views, you can even let your dog off the leash (if you’re not too worried about stolen sandwiches!)
The great thing about picnics is that they can be enjoyed almost anywhere – even your backyard! Let us know what your favourite picnic spots are in the comments below.
Competition!
We’ve teamed up with a few fantastic local businesses to curate the perfect Picnic Hamper. The hamper is filled with all the essentials for a Picnic for two including the following:
Delicious Organic Caco Fudge, a Marou chocolate, Italian quince paste and Asterisk Marzipan biscuit from Ainslie IGA
A bottle of Lerida Estate Wines Pinot Grigio
Two fresh Focaccia’s and a Baguette from Deeks Health Foods
For your chance to WIN this perfect Picnic Hamper and indulge at one of the mentioned locations, tell us, in 25 words or less ‘Who would you love to take on a Picnic and why’…
Winners announced Tuesday, 10 November 2015.
