Our Top 5 Picks for Picnics
Here are the Top 5 spots where you don't need to even pack a picnic yourself, rather just prebook & simply arrive!1. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
It is impossible to exclude Kirstenbosch from any Top 5, given it's world class award status, but with the Fynkos deli, close to the main gate (Gate 2 to be exact) now providing a fantastic value picnic option this is a personal favourite to indulge in. What's included: Pitas, dips, salads, falafels (Veg), chicken skewers (meat), Rare roast beef (meat); 3 cake medley dessert (Lovely selection!)Cost: R305 per picnic (meat or Veg) Hours: 09:00 – 16:00. How to Book: You can order online (Here) or you can call in advance on Tel: +27 (0)21 797 4883 or 074 142 1100 or you can arrive (and wait a while for them to prepare it) Experience Highlight: It's the most hassle-free way to enjoy a picnic in the Gardens as there are several spots to settle into that are ideal depending on the age (and agility) of your group2. The Last Word Constantia
This is one of the area's best kept secrets, Beautiful lush gardens that are well maintained with plenty of tables, benches for a comfortable and refined picnic experienceREAD: Secret Garden Picnic | The Last Word Constantia What's included: Cheeses, Cured meats, fresh fruit, nuts and fresh breadCosts: R350 per personHours: Prebooking is required & times are flexible.How to book: If you have a Secret Getaway voucher all contact details are on your unique voucher, alternatively you can phone the hotel on 021 794 7657Location: 34 Spaanschemat River Rd, Constantia, Cape Town, 78063. Norval Foundation, Tokai.
An incredible beautiful location for an art gallery with large art installations dotted around the grounds with a framed by the fantastic backdrop of the Silvermine Mountains. What's included: Cheeses, Cured meats, fresh fruit, nuts and fresh breadCosts: R175 per person (and a kids menu available too) Hours: 12am to 4pmHow to Book: Prebooking is required through Dineplan here How to book: +27 87 654 5902 / [email protected] Location: 4 Steenberg Rd, Steenberg Estate, Cape Town, 7945, South AfricaWineland Picnics
Shortlisting just one picnic option in the Winelands is tricky as there are some fabulous Franschhoek Winefarms (READ:Franschhoek Weekend Getaway | Top 20 Wine Tastings to try) as well as in Stellenbosch (READ: 20 of the best Stellenbosch wine tastings to try on your next weekend getaway) with many wine farms offering platters and picnics on the grounds... but shortlist we must, so our top 2 picks are:
4. Vergenoegd, Stellenbosch
Here we went for novelty. Vergenoegd duck parade is always a winner experience to enjoy and with the new owners at the helm the dining inclusions, including the picnic is not to be missed!READ: Vergenoegd Löw Estate | A new feather in the cap on Stellenbosch Wine RouteWhat's included: Menus do change here but an example includes Roostekoek, pates, cheeses, chicken skewers and peppermint crisp dessert (yum!)Location: Geuwels: 1 Vergenoegd Road, Somerset WestOff R310, Stellenbosch Wine RouteWhen can you go: Wednesday - Sunday from 12h00 - 16h00How to Book: 24 Hour Book in Advance through Dineplan here or call : +27 (0)21 202 4373
5. Holden Manz, Franschhoek
A tried and tested favourite with a great location in the heart of Franschhoek with spectacular mountain views as well as excellent estate wines. What's included: a charcuterie of cured meats, local cheeses, fresh fruit and nuts with sparkling water and a bottle of estate wine. How to Book: 24 hour notice is required so call ahead on 021 876 2738Location: Green Valley Road FranschhoekFree Picnic Spots in Cape Town
Outdoor Inspiration where you can bring your own Picnic (BYOP)Beaches
Whilst you can bring your own picnics to most beaches, it is not allowed to drink alcohol (there is a R500 fine) but with so many hidden gems to enjoy an afternoon sundowner after your picnic that's not really such a big deal!
READ: 7 Secret Beaches in Cape Town
Nature Reserves
Silvermine Reserve (there is a gate entrance payable to SANPARKS), Tokai Forest (no entrance fee) or a hike up Lions Head
Company Gardens
Always a winner with kids due to the squirrels, lush grassy spots to enjoy and find a space (or pop into the Company Gardens kitchen for a bite if a picnic is a bridge too far!). This is a wonderful walk or picnic space after a visit to the Natural History Museum or National Art gallery.
Boschenheuvel Arboretum
Very near to Kirstenbosch entrance opposite the stone cottages lies a beautiful dell filled with lush grass, a little stream and plenty of picnic spots to relax in!
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