Seven stunning picnic spots in Victoria

It’s probably best known as the starting point to exploring many of Victoria’s best waterfalls, but Sheoak Picnic Ground, found in the Otways, is a destination in itself. This clearing has everything a good picnic area needs: toilets, a picnic shelter and even gas barbecues. Once you’re fuelled up, it’d be a shame not to take one of the trails that lead to six (yes, six!) different waterfalls in the region including Henderson Falls, Kalimna Falls and Sheoak Falls.

Located just across the road from the beautiful Lake Wendouree, the Ballarat Botanic Gardens are 70 hectares of picturesque gardens. Settle down next to a mature tree, a striking marble statue or maybe out near one of the colourful bedding displays. Just make sure you pop into the Robert Clark Conservatory when you’re done picnicking. This conservatory has stunning seasonal displays – this year, depending on when you go, you’ll be able to see either the tuberous begonia display or blooming chrysanthemums.

You might have spied it while driving down Alexander Avenue, but have you ever wondered what that small island in the middle of the Yarra River is? Herring Island is a 3.2-hectare artificial island formed back in 1928. You get there by taking a punt ferry, which operates on weekends, or your own boat. Once on land, head toward the western end of the island where there are a number of large-scale sculptures to check out. Then you can choose between two picnic areas, with toilets and drinking fountain facilities.

This dog-friendly regional park is popular with the day hikes crowd, mostly because of the excellent Flinders Peak summit walk. But if you’re just keen to enjoy the view, you can settle down at the picnic tables near Turntable Drive car park. Pull out all your accoutrements and enjoy a meal while looking out over the surrounding regions – on a clear day you can even see Melbourne’s CBD skyline.

Surely one of the most spectacular picnic spots in the state, the Horn is a perfect stopover for visitors passing through or staying near Victoria’s High Country. It honestly feels like you’re on top of the world at the Horn (you practically are – it’s 1,723 metres above sea level and the highest point in the national park) with wide panoramic views over Hotham, Feathertop and Buller in the distance. If you can swing it, plan your visit close to sunset as the views are truly magical.

Kinglake National Park is one of the closest national parks to Melbourne’s CBD, sitting at the slopes of the Great Dividing Range. The area is popular for mountain bikers and campers, but also picnickers seeking out dramatic views over the Yarra Valley, the You Yangs and even the Melbourne skyline. Mason Falls is a highlight of the park, as is the adjacent picnic area, which is surrounded by beautiful fern forest.

Arthur’s Seat is the highest point on the Mornington Peninsula and unsurprisingly has some pretty neat views. Once you head up the windy road toward the summit there are numerous picnic tables to choose from – most under the shade of gum trees, others in green grassy fields. If you’re brave, you can try eating your picnic lunch atop the Arthurs Seat Eagle chairlift, where you’ll get the absolute best view over Port Phillip Bay.